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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.
Our Canadian friends introduced us to elderberry syrup and swear by it – yet I’ve not tried anything with it beyond just taking a spoonful. This smoothie looks like the perfect way to incorporate it into our routine – and who doesn’t love the color! Thanks for being so consistently inspirational!
Your friends up north are on to something! Def try this recipe, if you like elderberry syrup, you will love the smoothie!
Looks so good I will have to try this
It’s delicious! 🙂
It’s tasty and am looking forward to an improved immune system.
So glad you liked it! 🙂
I have been wanting to try elderberry syrup for over a year now, but I haven’t taken the plunge because of the cost. I know crazy how can we put a price on health, but sometimes you have to just make the choice of what is most important like regular food for the family and gas in the car. This smoothie looks yummy and really pretty.
It tastes as good as it looks!!
I’ve been feeling run down. Furloughed from work, now full time school tech support for my kids while they remote learn. In the past I’ve taken elderberry gummies to get me back on track. I imagine this would do me wonders.
I think it really could!
This syrup has gotten us through the COVID-19 ordeal. The whole family has been using it since last November and ( knock on wood ) so far so good!
That’s really great to hear, Adele!
I tried it for the smoothie for the first time today. Really want to boost my immune system to be healthier.
What did you think of the smoothie, Ethel?
This looks like an amazing recipe; I am always looking for ways to boost my immunity! Can’t wait to try it!
Come back to rate it after you give it a try! 🙂
I am 61…WHEN DID THIS HAPPEN!!! Friends have been telling me the benefits of Elderberry syrup for a while now and I am going to try these recipes (I love smoothies) and see how it effects my body. Thanks for making healthy delicious too!
Haha, Teresa, age is just a number, isn’t it?! Elderberry syrup is a great way to help keep your immune system strong and if you already love smoothies, it’s a great boost to add to them!
I need elderberry syrup to keep me from being so sick with bronchitis–or at least help it be less miserable. When I get flu or colds, I have them for a month or more. Need to ramp up my immune system!
Def do all you can to keep that immune system strong, Nancy!!
I’ve never tried Elderberry, but have been told that it is the thing to use to boost the immune system and in this time of corona I need all the help I can get. Thanks. #rawkon!
So true, Patricia! Rawk on!! 🙂
Looks like a great smoothie to try! I love elderberry syrup for myself and my kids enjoy taking it! It is a great option for them and gives me peace of mind knowing they are boosting their immune systems.
Come back to let us know how you liked the smoothie after you give it a try!!
This recipe looks DELIGHTFUL! I have a friend that makes homemade elderberry syrup and I would love to see how these compare 🙂
Come back to let us know how they compared to each other, Natalie!
As a para educator working with special need kids, I am finding all the ways to boost my immunity especially in this pandemic season.
It’s great you are looking into all the ways to boost your immune system, there are many! And thank you for the work you do as a para educator, Pavithra!
I’m starting your 10 day challenge again and it would be great to include this immune boosting smoothie!
It would be a great boost to add to the challenge smoothies!
My immune system is in need of real help! I have allergies so severe it’s almost like a flu. I don’t know what triggered my allergies to be so bad but I know I am very susceptible to any cold or flu someone has. I really would love my immune system to have some help and begin a real change in my body. Thanks!
So sorry to hear about your allergies, Laura! I think elderberry syrup could def help strengthen your immune system and fight those allergies. I also want to recommend honey; many folks with allergies say eating a little bit of raw, local honey helps ease their allergy symptoms.