If you’re like me, mornings can feel rushed, and quick, healthy solutions are lifesaving. That’s where the Down to Earth Smoothie comes in—a refreshing blend of wholesome ingredients that bring together the best nature has to offer.
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How to make Down to Earth Smoothie
Down to Earth Smoothie is a popular pre‑made smoothie cup made by LiveMore Superfoods under their LiveMore Organics line.
Ingredients
Base ingredients
- 1 cup liquid of choice: Almond or oat
- 1 frozen banana
- ½ cup frozen berries
- 1 handful leafy greens
- ½ avocado (optional)
Boosters (optional but recommended)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds
- 1 scoop protein powder (plant-based or whey)
- 1 teaspoon spirulina or matcha powder
- Sweetener to taste: Raw honey
- Toppings: Coconut flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Make sure your fruits are frozen and your greens are washed and chopped into smaller pieces for easier blending.
Step 2: Start by pouring your liquid into the blender—this helps the blades move smoothly and prevents chunks.
Step 3: Add the banana, berries, avocado (if using), and greens. Then sprinkle in your chia seeds, protein powder, or any other optional boosters.
Step 4: Blend on high for about 30-60 seconds or until your smoothie reaches a creamy and smooth consistency. If it’s too thick, add more liquid a tablespoon at a time until it blends effortlessly.
Step 5: Take a sip. If you’d like it sweeter, add a small amount of honey or sweetener and blend for another 10 seconds.
Step 6: Pour your smoothie into a glass or bowl, top it with your favorite additions (coconut flakes, granola, cacao nibs, etc.), and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Down to Earth Smoothie
- Use frozen fruit: Frozen fruit helps create a creamy and thick consistency without the need for ice, which can dilute the flavor.
- Balance flavors: If your smoothie tastes too “green,” add a few extra berries or a dash of cinnamon to enhance the natural sweetness.
- Prep ahead: To save time, portion out your ingredients into individual bags or containers in advance—perfect for busy mornings.
- Invest in a powerful blender: A high-quality blender is a worthwhile investment to achieve the ultimate smooth and creamy texture.
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to swap spinach for mint or add a squeeze of lemon juice for tanginess. The Down to Earth Smoothie is highly customizable!
What to serve with
The Down to Earth Smoothie is a nutrient-packed drink that can serve as a complete meal on its own, especially if you’ve added boosters like protein powder, seeds, and avocado. However, pairing it with complementary sides can turn it into a more satisfying experience—whether for breakfast, brunch or as a mid-day snack.
1. Pair with Healthy Breakfast Staples
Since the smoothie is light yet nutrient-dense, you can serve it with foods that provide textures and flavors to round out the meal:
a) Toasts with Toppings
- Avocado Toast: Serve whole-grain toast spread with creamy avocado slices, seasoned with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, chili flakes, or lemon juice.
- Nut Butter Toast: Top toasted bread with almond or peanut butter, then drizzle with a touch of honey and add slices of fresh fruit (e.g., strawberries or banana).
- Hummus Toast: For a savory option, smear hummus on warm toast and layer it with diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes.
b) Overnight Oats or Granola Bowl
Serve a small portion of overnight oats or granola alongside your smoothie. Consider adding fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds as toppings to complement the smoothie’s earthy and fruity flavors.
2. Light and Crispy Sides
For those who prefer contrasting textures, foods with crunch can pair beautifully with the smoothie:
a) Healthy Crackers or Rice Cakes: Opt for seed-based crackers, whole-grain crackers, or rice cakes topped with soft spreads like almond butter or fresh fruits.
b) Fresh Veggie Sticks: Slices of carrots, celery, or cucumber make an excellent pair with the smoothie, especially if served with hummus for dipping.
3. Complementary Fruits and Bowls
a) Fruit Salad: Prepare a vibrant fruit salad using seasonal fruits like kiwi, orange slices, pineapple chunks, grapes, and berries. A sprinkle of mint or lime juice can enhance the flavor.
b) Smoothie Bowl: Convert your smoothie into a bowl! Serve the Down to Earth Smoothie topped with granola, cacao nibs, fresh banana slices, chia seeds, shredded coconut, or nuts.
Ingredients Substitutes
The Down to Earth Smoothie is known for its healthy combination of earthy flavors, nutrient-rich foods, and fresh ingredients.
1. Kale
Original Purpose: Kale is packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. It provides the smoothie with its signature earthy and slightly bitter taste.
Substitutes:
- Spinach: A softer leafy green that’s equally nutritious but slightly milder in taste.
- Swiss Chard: Another leafy green substitute with similar nutritional benefits but with a slightly sweeter and less bitter profile.
- Collard Greens: Rich in nutrients, these greens have a stronger, more earthy taste similar to kale.
- Arugula: For an added peppery flavor profile.
2. Berries (E.g., Blueberries, Blackberries)
Original Purpose: These provide natural sweetness, tanginess, and antioxidants.
Substitutes:
- Cherries: For a similar sweetness and tart flavor.
- Frozen Mango: Adds natural sweetness with tropical undertones.
- Frozen Pineapple: A tangy yet sweet fruit that complements earthy flavors.
- Apples: Fresh or frozen apples (like Granny Smith) for a mild sweetness and fiber.
3. Banana
Original Purpose: Bananas create a creamy texture and add natural sweetness.
Substitutes:
- Avocado: Perfect for creaminess, though less sweet. You may want to add a sweeter fruit to balance it.
- Frozen Cauliflower Florets: Surprisingly creamy when blended but with a neutral taste.
- Plantains (Ripe): Similar to bananas in terms of taste and texture.
- Sweet Potato (Cooked & Frozen): Adds creaminess and subtle sweetness.
4. Almond or Coconut Milk
Original Purpose: These plant-based milks are used to provide creaminess and a mild nutty or tropical flavor.
Substitutes:
- Oat Milk: Creamy and slightly sweet, it complements earthy smoothies well.
- Cashew Milk: Naturally creamy and mildly nutty.
- Soy Milk: Rich in protein, with a slightly stronger flavor profile.
- Rice Milk: Thin and mildly sweet but suitable for allergenic requirements.
5. Chia Seeds or Flaxseeds
Original Purpose: These superfoods add omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and thicken the smoothie.
Substitutes:
- Hemp Seeds: Equally nutritious, with omega-3 and protein content.
- Psyllium Husk: This is for additional fiber and thickening properties.
- Sunflower Seeds: Nutritionally dense and mildly nutty.
6. Lemon or Lime Juice
Original Purpose: Adds acidity and balances the sweetness of the smoothie.
Substitutes:
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Use sparingly for a similar tangy effect.
- Orange Juice: Adds acidity and a sweeter citrus flavor.
- Tamarind Paste: For a more exotic tangy flavor, use in moderation.
7. Ginger
Original Purpose: Ginger provides a warming spice and improves digestion.
Substitutes:
- Turmeric: For a similar warming effect and health benefits (less spicy).
- Cinnamon: Adds a warm spice but with a sweet undertone.
- Cardamom: Offers warmth and a unique aromatic flavor.
- Peppermint: For a cooling and refreshing note.
8. Sweeteners (Honey, Maple Syrup)
Original Purpose: Used to enhance the natural sweetness of the ingredients.
Substitutes:
- Date Syrup: Naturally sweet and nutrient-rich.
- Agave Nectar: Mildly sweet with less viscosity.
- Stevia: A sugar-free option for sweetness without calories.
- Ripe Medjool Dates: Blendable for natural sweetness and fiber.
9. Ice or Frozen Ingredients
Original Purpose: Provides a chilled and thick consistency.
Substitutes:
- Frozen Zucchini: Neutral flavor and adds creaminess.
- Frozen Coconut Meat: Adds tropical creaminess.
- Crushed Ice: For a similar chill without altering the flavor.
10. Protein Powder (Optional)
Original Purpose: Add protein to make the smoothie more filling.
Substitutes:
- Collagen Powder: A flavor-neutral protein option.
- Powdered Peanut Butter: Adds protein and flavor.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds natural protein and creaminess.
- Hemp Protein Powder: A plant-based alternative with a earthy taste.
Final Thoughts
By serving the Down to Earth Smoothie with complementary sides ranging from crunchy to creamy and sweet to savory, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.
More Smoothie Recipes:
- Copycat Sonic Twisted Flamingo Recipe
- Copycat Sonic Cream Slush Recipe
- Copycat Sonic Unicorn Slush Recipe
- Stitch Tropical Smoothie Recipe
- Kali Uchis Erewhon Smoothie Recipe
Ingredients
Base ingredients
- 1 cup liquid of choice: Almond or oat
- 1 frozen banana
- ½ cup frozen berries
- 1 handful leafy greens
- ½ avocado (optional)
Boosters (optional but recommended)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds
- 1 scoop protein powder (plant-based or whey)
- 1 teaspoon spirulina or matcha powder
- Sweetener to taste: Raw honey
Instructions
Step 1: Make sure your fruits are frozen and your greens are washed and chopped into smaller pieces for easier blending.
Step 2: Start by pouring your liquid into the blender—this helps the blades move smoothly and prevents chunks.
Step 3: Add the banana, berries, avocado (if using), and greens. Then sprinkle in your chia seeds, protein powder, or any other optional boosters.
Step 4: Blend on high for about 30-60 seconds or until your smoothie reaches a creamy and smooth consistency. If it’s too thick, add more liquid a tablespoon at a time until it blends effortlessly.
Step 5: Take a sip. If you’d like it sweeter, add a small amount of honey or sweetener and blend for another 10 seconds.
Step 6: Pour your smoothie into a glass or bowl, top it with your favorite additions (coconut flakes, granola, cacao nibs, etc.), and enjoy!
