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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 used to use it and never got back to it. I’ve been seriously considering it again.
Hop back on that elderberry wagon, Angela!
I want to give my immune system a boost because I’ve had to continue to work during the pandemic and I want to stay healthy for my family and friends, and make sure that I can continue to work and support myself. I love the smoothie life.
Kale yeah, Olivia! Love the smoothie life! 😀
Have loved all the great smoothie recipes and especially those for immune health and anti-inflammatory health. I started this quest in hopes of bringing better health to my husband and I who, like many, have arthritis. Would love to bring the benefits of elderberry into our daily routine as well. We tried the dragonfruit smoothie recipe and loved it so I think this one will be a hit as well! Thanks for all the recipes and the help to keep so many on the path to wellness and a happier life!!
So glad you and your husband are enjoying the recipes, Linda! The immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory smoothies are some of my faves!
Gotta love that preventative care!
We are all about preventative care, Christen!
I would love to give my immune system a boost because of FOMO! I don’t want to miss out on staying healthy forever! Thanks a bunch, and love your recipes!
Gotta stay healthy so you don’t miss out on all the fun stuff!
This sounds really yummy! I’ve been taking elderberry supplements since the pandemic to keep my immune system strong. So far, I’ve stayed healthy! Fingers crossed! Would love to try the elderberry syrup and this smoothie recipe!
It’s so delicious!
I love knowing that I’m putting healthy foods into my body! I also have a son with kidney problems and a husband who could very much use some more immune boost! This would be a great way to do that!!!
I would love to incorporate the Elderberry syrup into my daily routine to support my immune system. I’ve been run down and need the extra kick to my health. Thank you for the amazing recipes and products you and your company create Jen!
So glad you are loving our recipes, Susan!
It sure would, Cecily!
I work in our local school system & go out into our community, so I come into contact with A LOT of people. I need to keep my immune system in top shape, so I can do my job 100%
Definitely keep that immune system as strong as possible!
I’ve been on a health journey and this would definitely be a boost in it. Cancer runs on both sides of my family and with this pandemic I’ve been a lot more conscious of my health.
I think this pandemic has made so many of us more conscious of our wellbeing and aware of things we can do to help our bodies stay strong and healthy.
I want to do everything I can to help keep my husband and myself from getting sick – sounds like elderberry would be a great addition to our arsenal!
It for sure is a great addition!
I got diagnosed with Kidney failure and high blood pressure at the age of 27 years. You can just imagine being such a young women and having the world right at my feet to be hit with such a low blow and public hospital in SA are not making the process any easier. It’s important to me to have a strong immune system just to reach the age of 50 years. I’m 32 years now and do all I can to keep my immune in good shape.
Oh my gosh, so sorry to hear this, Cleopatra. Wishing you much health and wellness as you manage your condition. Keep fighting and stay strong!
Would love to try this recipe. Need all the help I can get boosting my immune system. It would also be a great help for my grandson who is immune compromised
It’s a great recipe, def give it a try!
I will be shopping to get the ingredients needed for this. Tried dragon fruit for the first time last week and it was super sweet and yummy; may have been a bit overripe; reminded me a bit of kiwi.
We suggest kiwi as a substitute if you don’t have dragon fruit, so when you say it reminded you a bit of kiwi, you were spot on! This is a delicious recipe (as well as being so good for you), come back and let us know what you thought after you give it a try!
I need immune boost to protect my mom, kids, husband, sibling, everyone surround me and I. I will spread the word of “the important how to take care our immune system in our body, especially in this time of pandemic.”
Fauzia, you’re right- it’s so important to take care of ourselves and our immune systems. Especially now!
I tried some homemade elderberry syrup last year – and sad that I ran out too quickly! It’s delicious and sooo good for you! Especially in these Covid times – it’s important to keep immunity up!! I need all the help I can get! Thank you!
Right now, it’s more important than ever!
What a vibrant and beautiful smoothie. I would love to try that. My family has used elderberry for many years now. My two children 10 and 3 have to go to school each day since I am an essential worker and I am always trying to boost their immune system to arm them with a bit of health before we go on our way each day. Thanks for the recipe.
Glad this recipe can help you make sure you and your kids have strong immune systems as you tackle each day!
I would like to give my immune system a boost so I can stay healthy for my family … I’m support person of the year!
Nice!
I would like to give my immune system a boost because I am nursing a newborn, being a teacher to a 16, 10 and 8 year old all while working from home support our troops and catering part time. Elderberry has been a key nutrient in assisting my family stay healthy all year! Let’s keep the good times rolling!
Sounds like you’re keeping busy, Stephanie!
I love your recipes and would love to try this immune boosting one as well!
So glad you love them!! 🙂
Thanks for the great recipes! I work with elderly dementia and Alzheimer’s residents in our memory care communities. We’ve had positive cases and I’m doing whatever I can to ensure I don’t have or spread infections to our wonderful residents.
Thank you for all you do, Ben! This is a great recipe to help strengthen and support your immune system. 🙂