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This elderberry smoothie recipe harnesses the natural power of black elderberries, which boast nearly double the anthocyanins of other berries. This special type of flavonoid promotes immune support, along with anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-cancer benefits. Blended with antioxidant-rich fruits to further bolster a healthy immune system, this recipe is a true winner.
For several years, my family lacked health insurance, so I took a proactive approach to healthcare. We focused on boosting our immune systems to help us avoid getting sick in the first place. From green smoothies to plant-based meals and natural remedies—we explored every avenue to stay healthy…and it worked. With kids back in school (mine included), restaurants reopening, and new COVID cases still in the headlines, it’s crucial to fortify your body’s natural defenses: the immune system.
One of the key immune-supporting ingredients I added to our smoothies was elderberry syrup. You can make elderberry syrup at home or purchase at many stores, I used the Sambucol Black Elderberry Syrup in this elderberry smoothie recipe.
Table of Contents
Elderberry Smoothie Ingredients
- Dragon Fruit: Not only does it add a stunning pink hue, but dragon fruit is also a good source of fiber and vitamin C. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other berries. If you’ve never had a smoothie with dragon fruit, it’s very similar to kiwi both in texture and flavor. A lot of grocery stores now carry frozen puree or cubed dragon fruit.
- Blackberries: These little gems are packed with antioxidants and fiber, contributing to overall health and well-being. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the banana and dragon fruit.
- Banana: The banana adds creaminess and natural sweetness to the smoothie, while also providing potassium, an essential electrolyte. For an extra thick and frosty texture, you can freeze bananas before blending.
- Coconut Water: Coconut water is a fantastic source of hydration and electrolytes, keeping you refreshed and energized. You can substitute with water or almond milk (check out my list of top almond milk brands).
- Elderberry syrup: If you’re wondering…what is elderberry good for? They are the berries and its syrup is known for its immune-boosting properties. It adds a delicious, slightly tart berry flavor to the smoothie.
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Where to Buy Elderberry Syrup
You can find Sambucol Elderberry Syrup at Target, Costco, Amazon, major drug stores. It’s been flying off the shelves since COVID-19 became a pandemic, which is exciting to see more and more people lean towards the natural remedies world.
How to Make an Elderberry Smoothie
This Elderberry Smoothie is a quick, easy, and delicious way to support your immune system and enjoy a healthy treat. I also wanted it to be something that my kids would happily drink. This smoothie does all that in three simple steps:
- Combine all ingredients in a high-powered blender. Using quality smoothie blenders helps ensure everything gets smooth and creamy without any chunks.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thicker smoothie, add a few more frozen berries. If it’s too thick, add a splash more coconut water.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately!
For extra tips on creating the perfect smoothie, check out my guide on how to make a smoothie.
More Elderberry Recipes
For more immune boosting fruit smoothies using elderberry syrup, you can check out my favorites:
If you make this blackberry elderberry smoothie, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comment box below. Your feedback helps me and all the readers in this community. And if you’re interested in more plant-based recipes (and exclusive content), sign up for my weekly recipe newsletter.
Blackberry Elderberry Smoothie
Ingredients
- ½ cup dragon fruit frozen
- ½ cup blackberries
- 1 banana
- 1 cup coconut water
- 2 teaspoon elderberry syrup
Instructions
- Place all ingredients into a blender.
- Puree until smooth.
- Serve immediately.
Video
Helpful Tools
Notes
- Other berries can be substituted for the blackberries. We recommend those high in antioxidants such as blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries.
- Make sure to use at least 1 frozen fruit for a refreshingly cool smoothie. These frozen fruits also work perfectly for frozen meal prep smoothie packs if you like prepping ahead.
- Feel free to add 1 cup leafy green vegetables or 1/2 cup frozen cauliflower to increase the fiber content.
I qualify to be a member in TWO vulnerable groups. #1 is my age and #2 is hypertension. I really should do everything I can to keep my immune system strong.
Yes, you should! And drinking this smoothie is a great start! 🙂
As a teacher/school counsellor during COVID, I want to give my immune system a boost to stay healthy to support my colleagues and students.
We appreciate the educators! Stay safe and healthy, Andrea. 🙂
Looking to boost and maintain the immune system of son and husband. Both have had stomach issues this year and heading into fall and winter I want them healthy and safe! Thank you kindly.
This smoothie is perfect to add to your arsenal so you can keep both your son and husband healthy!
I would like my Husband David to have the best immune protection possible as has just started treatment for MC Lymphoma which is incurable so hence I need to make sure his immune system is the at best possible state while undergoing treatment and post treatment!
Also I work in pharmacy so I need my immune system up to speed so I don’t take any sickness home to my husband!
Best of luck to your husband as he goes through treatment!
I want to give my immune system a boost with this recipe to keep myself and my family healthy during these crazy times!
These are crazy times but you can regain some control by taking care of your + your family’s health! And this smoothie is perfect for that. 🙂
I work in retail and I’m always amazed at the sick people who will come in to share their germs with everyone. I’ve heard about elderberry, but never tried it. I thought with the way 2020 is going, this might be the year to check it out!
So sorry to hear you have to be around inconsiderate people for your job! Elderberry would be a great thing to add to your daily regimen to help your immune system stay strong and fight off those germs.
I work in a hospital so adding elderberry to my diet would be most beneficial. I need to stay healthy to take care of myself and family.
Elderberry is a great way to help your immune system stay strong!
I’m a mother and a principal. I want to be healthy for all the people that depend on me and make sure my family stays healthy too. My kids like the taste too!
It’s such a tasty smoothie! Stay healthy out there!
With school starting, I’m always looking for a healthy way to boost our immune systems. I would love to try this recipe as well. Thank you!
Def try this recipe and come back to let us know how you liked it!
Elderberry syrup sounds awesome to stay healthy all winter!!
It really is! 🙂
Looks good- Just want to try with some spinach and protein powder.
Those would be great additions to this recipe!
Would love to try the elderberry! My husband works in a school and I work in a hospital. Boosting our immune systems is so important to keep us and our three kids healthy and safe.
This recipe is a great way to help your whole family maintain strong immune systems!
I need to try this. I work in a school. Many germs.
Def give it a try!
Doing everything possible to stay healthy these days, so I can be there to take care of my family, my elderly mom and the special needs families I work with. Have used the elderberry lozenges but an elderberry smoothy sounds great!
It’s really tasty, you should definitely try it!
Elderberry is a great immune booster- I had no idea it came in a liquid form, I have always purchased it in a powder form, or in capsules.
Yes, it also comes in liquid form! 🙂
I would love to try this recipe with the Sambucol black elderberry syrup.
It’s such a delicious smoothie!
We love elderberry syrup during winter, especially to guard ourselves from colds!
It’s a great preventative during cold and flu season!
Looks great!! I would love to give this a try to set an example for my mother, extended family & friends on eating healthy and caring about our immune systems. I have many family and friends that are fighting various diseases (diabetes, cancer and heart problems, obesity)
Def important to set a good example, Stephanie!
This looks like an awesome recipe. I have been drinking elderberry tea and will sometimes take an elderberry supplement for an immune boost. I am a cancer survivor, so boosting my immune system nutritionally has been a top priority!
Sounds like you are already well aware of all the awesome benefits of elderberry, Cynthia!
Thanks for always sharing great recipes. I want to give my immune system a boost because I’ve started teaching and I teach Pre-K students a total of 15 little ones face-to-face. With COVID-19 going on, my immune system definitely needs a BIG boost especially with being in a classroom teaching three and four year old’s.
Stay healthy, Serena!