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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 use homemade elderberry syrup or purchase at many stores, I used the Sambucol Black Elderberry Syrup in this elderberry smoothie recipe.
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.
- 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, if you prefer.
- Elderberry syrup: The star ingredient! Elderberry syrup is known for its immune-boosting properties and adds a delicious, slightly tart berry flavor to the smoothie. You can try my DIY Elderberry Syrup Recipe, or save time and purchase from most pharmacies and grocery stores.
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.
- 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!
More Elderberry Recipes
For more immune boosting recipes using elderberry syrup, check out my Elderberry Popsicles, Homemade Elderberry Syrup and my Antioxidant Smoothie Cubes. You might also like Romana’s Elderberry Jam recipe— I plan to make it next time I make a batch of my homemade elderberry syrup.
Don’t forget to rate + review this elderberry smoothie once you make it.
Blackberry Elderberry Smoothie
Ingredients
- ½ cup dragon fruit frozen
- ½ cup blackberries
- 1 banana
- 1 cup coconut water
- 2 tsp elderberry syrup
Instructions
- Place all ingredients into a blender.
- Puree until smooth.
- Serve immediately.
Equipment
Video
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.
- Feel free to add 1 cup leafy greens or 1/2 cup frozen cauliflower to increase the fiber content.
My husband and I have been trying to get pregnant for the past 10 years and I’m a pre-Diabetic, and I’m doing everything I could from eating healthy, exercising, and boosting my immune system. My husband has a weak immune system, and I heard about elderberry syrup and would love to try it out especially since I received the immune boosting smoothie recipe last week.
Elderberry is a great way to help strengthen your immune system, Beatrice!
I love this recipe! And I’m always a fan of boosting my immune system. I have five kids, four boys. With them all going back to school we all need an extra boost right now. Thanks for this, Jen!
It’s a great recipe, Rachelle!
Elderberry is delicious! Having a great immune system these days is very helpful. Finding a way to boost it while still tasting great can be a real challenge!
Well you’re in luck because this smoothie helps boost your immune system *and* it’s delicious!!
Boosting my immune system is so important since I not only have a 1 1/2 year old, but I’m also pregnant with baby number two! It’s so important to stay healthy so I can get things done at home!
Super important, Sarah!
This is great! I am a special education teacher in a small mtn town in Colorado. We have been in person learning for 3 weeks and sure do want to see the trend going in such a positive manner here!
This smoothie is a great way to help keep your immune system in top form, especially as you teach in-person classes!
Hi there, I’m trying to boost my immunity because of my 6 year old son. My son was diagnosed with CKD (chronic kidney disease) at age 2. My son received his kidney transplant a year ago. I have to keep my immune system, my younger son and my spouse up. Because our 6 year son’s immune system is immune compromised, because of all the immune medication. Thank you.
Definitely important to make sure the whole family has strong immune systems so you can all support your immune-compromised son. Stay healthy!
We are doing everything we can to exercise, eat well, and keep our immune systems going strong. With 2 teens, it is so important to keep their bodies healthy with natural ingredients to support their bodies. We set that example for them in so many ways. Thanks for all you do to educate people and set a great example!
Way to be a great example for your kids, Theresa! No better way to teach something than to teach by doing!
I was recently diagnosed with MS at the age of 46. I have done a ton of research and changed my entire diet. Anti-inflammatory, and trying to boost my immune system. The drug therapy I am taking is messing with my white blood cell count, so I am trying to be careful and keep my immune system healthy. I had never heard of elderberry syrup! Thanks for posting!
So glad we could introduce you to such a great immune-booster as elderberry! Def try this smoothie and consider including elderberry in your regimen. It could really help you as you work to keep your immune system as strong as it can be!
I have had Type 1 Diabetes for 34 years, which has caused a lot of auto-immune issues, adult-onset asthma, and nose polyps. I take care of myself as best as possible, but food is my #1 priority, and green smoothies have been a life saver. Now I’m having to go back to working in the office and would love to try something I’ve never tried before but have heard a lot about.
Love that green smoothies are helping you manage your health issues, Angela. This smoothie would be a great one to have in your arsenal! Stay healthy. 🙂
I would love to try this recipe! Being pregnant, my immune system can use all the boosting it gets!!
This sounds so tasty!
You’re right about that, Tosha! Take care of yourself and stay healthy!!
Haven’t heard about it. Taking a lot of vitamins D/E and with flu season coming up, I’d like to add an extra layer of strength for my immune system. Thanks for sharing.
Glad we could introduce you to elderberry, James!
I recently had sinus surgery and it was supposed to help rid me of chronic sinus infections. It sadly has not and now my doctors are looking at ways to boost my immune system so that I no longer get a sinus infection every month, therefore lowering the frequency of my antibiotic use as well. I hope the Elderberry helps with this.
I hope it does also, Amy!
I love the taste of Elderberry. I even added it to my Fire Cider last year. In these already uncertain times and with flu season coming soon, even the strongest immune system can use all the help it can get.
I wouldn’t think to add elderberry to Fire Cider, how did it taste?
I am interested in trying elderberry to boost my immune system and for overall health. Love the info you provide!
Thanks, Alicia!
The recipe sounds amazing; I am currently looking at different brands of Elderberry Syrup but a bit confused with the quantity of elderberry in different ones. Are there guidelines for daily Elderberry use for general immune protection in terms of mg’s per serving?
Also loving that coconut water is in the smoothie — not a fan of drinking coconut water straight but I want the benefits!
Thanks SGS for all you offer and do 🙂
Hey Janet! It’s a great smoothie, beautiful color and so tasty! I imagine you can find the guidelines for daily elderberry use online pretty easily. 🙂
With a 14 month old and 13 acres to prepare for the upcoming winter season, my husband and I need all the immune boost we can get. Adding Elderberry syrup to the routine could be great!
Sounds like you are keeping very busy, Tabitha! Stay healthy!