7 Unusual but Delicious Fruit Smoothie Combinations You Need to Try
Unleash your adventurous side in the kitchen with these creative, nutrient-rich smoothie ideas that blend unexpected ingredients into irresistibly tasty drinks.
If you’re tired of the classic strawberry-banana blend and want to explore new horizons in your morning routine, these innovative smoothie recipes deliver bold flavors and exceptional nutrition. Developed with insight from registered dietitians and nutritionists, each concoction blends unexpected ingredients—think leafy greens, pulses, root vegetables, and even savory spices—proving that the best smoothie flavors often come from the most inventive combinations. Ready to shake up your glass? Here are seven smoothie mashups that might sound bizarre, but taste absolutely divine.
The Versatile Benefits of Smoothies
Smoothies pack a nutritional punch and unmatched convenience, making them ideal for breakfast, snacks, or post-workout recovery. They’re also a clever way for parents to sneak veggies into a child’s diet, beautifully masked by sweet and tangy fruit. Every serving can be tailored for flavor, texture, and dietary needs, opening a gateway to endless creative blends.
Chocolate Kale Smoothie
This decadent yet healthy combination proves that the worlds of chocolate and leafy greens are not that distant. Developed by Mackenzie Burgess, R.D.N., this smoothie uses the richness of cocoa powder and the nutrient-power of kale for a naturally sweet treat. The chocolate flavor masks the earthy greens, so even those wary of kale can enjoy a vitamin-packed start to the day.
- 1/2 cup roughly chopped kale or spinach
- 1/2 cup sliced & frozen ripe banana
- 1/4 cup frozen blueberries
- 1/4 cup yogurt (any variety)
- 2 pitted Medjool dates
- 2 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp mini dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
Instructions: Blend all ingredients until smooth. For extra indulgence, sprinkle more cocoa powder and chocolate chips on top. This smoothie delivers fiber, antioxidants, and hidden veggies in every sip.
Mango Berry Beet Smoothie
You might not think to combine mango, berries, and beets—but this vibrant blend bursts with sweet, tangy, and earthy notes, plus a spicy hint from ginger and turmeric. Sarah Olszewski, MS, RDN, recommends this flavor-packed option for anyone seeking hydration and anti-inflammatory benefits before or after a workout.
- 3/4 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup frozen mango
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 1 packet ginger turmeric electrolyte mix
- 1/4 cup pomegranate juice (for layering)
- 1/2 cup frozen raspberries (for layering)
- 1/4 tsp honey (for layering)
- 1/2 cooked beet (for layering)
Instructions: In a blender, combine orange juice, frozen mango, lemon juice, and the ginger turmeric packet. Blend until smooth, then pour into a glass. In a separate blender, blend pomegranate juice, raspberries, honey, and beet. Gently pour on top of the mango mixture to create an eye-catching layered effect. Stir before drinking if you prefer a uniform flavor.
Red Velvet Beet & Berries Smoothie
For berry lovers ready to branch out, this ‘red velvet’ creation by Dr. Chelsea Azarcon combines the antioxidant power of berries and beets with plant-based protein and healthy fats from legumes and MCT oil. The result is a rich, chocolatey drink reminiscent of dessert—without the guilt.
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- 1/2 cup chickpeas or cannellini beans
- 1 small beet, roasted or cooked
- 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed berries
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp MCT oil
- 20 drops liquid stevia or 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup ice
Instructions: Blend all ingredients until creamy. Stir in 1 tablespoon cocoa nibs for texture. The chickpeas or beans add fiber and creaminess, making this smoothie filling and energizing.
Apple Ginger Charcuterie Board Smoothie
Here’s a smoothie inspired by the modern charcuterie trend—think sweet and savory fruits, nuts, and hints of spice. Apple and ginger create a refreshing base, while walnuts and cinnamon echo the flavors of a grazing board, all blended for a unique, nutrient-dense start to the day.
- 1 medium apple, cored and chopped
- 1/2 inch fresh ginger, peeled
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup oat milk (or milk of your choice)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth. Garnish with extra walnuts if desired. This smoothie offers fiber, protein, healthy fats, and warming spices—plus a nod to your favorite party platter.
Kiwi Banana Tahini Smoothie
For those who love a creamy drink with a bit of tang, this blend combines sweet banana with tart kiwi and nutty tahini. Chia seeds bring added thickness and fiber, while a touch of honey keeps things just sweet enough. This is a great pre- or post-bedtime smoothie, thanks to restful nutrients like magnesium and tryptophan found in banana and tahini.
- 2 ripe kiwis, peeled and chopped
- 1 medium banana, sliced and frozen
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 cup unsweetened oat or almond milk
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions: Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until ultra-creamy. Letting the mixture rest for five minutes allows the chia seeds to thicken your drink, making it spoonable if you wish. Excellent for staying full and satisfied.
Avocado Citrus & Oat Smoothie
Avocado delivers velvety texture and healthy fats, while orange and lime juice give zingy brightness to this unusual blend. Ground oats offer extra fiber and staying power, creating a smoothie that doubles as a satisfying breakfast or snack.
- 1/2 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup ice
- 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
Instructions: Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth and frothy. The oats help to stabilize blood sugar, making this smoothie ideal for lasting energy through the morning.
Prune Pear Spiced Oat Milk Smoothie
Dried prunes aren’t just for snacking—they pair beautifully with ripe pear and offer natural sweetness, probiotic support, and lots of fiber for digestive health. Cinnamon and cardamom bring warm spice, while oat milk makes everything lush and creamy. This combination is particularly effective for supporting regularity and gut health.
- 4 dried prunes (pitted)
- 1 ripe pear, cored and chopped
- 1 cup oat milk
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground cardamom
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- 1/2 cup ice
Instructions: Blend all ingredients on high until perfectly smooth. Garnish with a dusting of cinnamon or a slice of pear for an extra dose of flair. Enjoy this smoothie for an energizing breakfast or as a functional afternoon snack.
Comparison Table: Smoothie Flavors & Benefits
| Smoothie | Main Flavors | Key Nutrients | Notable Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Kale | Chocolate, banana, greens | Fiber, antioxidants, vitamin K | Veggie-rich, masks greens, kid-friendly |
| Mango Berry Beet | Mango, berries, beet, ginger | Vitamin C, anti-inflammatories | Hydration, digestive support |
| Red Velvet Beet & Berries | Berries, beet, cocoa, legumes | Protein, fiber, flavonoids | Supports energy, dessert-like |
| Apple Ginger Charcuterie | Apple, ginger, walnuts | Omega-3s, protein, fiber | Savory-sweet, balanced nutrients |
| Kiwi Banana Tahini | Kiwi, banana, tahini | Magnesium, healthy fats | Restful, filling, spoonable |
| Avocado Citrus & Oat | Avocado, citrus, oats | Healthy fats, fiber, beta-carotene | Creamy, supports gut health |
| Prune Pear Spiced Oat Milk | Prune, pear, warm spice | Prebiotics, fiber, plant protein | Regulates digestion, smooth & creamy |
Why Try Unusual Smoothie Combinations?
- Break flavor monotony: New fruits, veggies, and spices prevent taste-bud fatigue.
- Broaden nutrient intake: Adding ingredients like beets, greens, legumes, and spices increases your range of phytonutrients, fiber, and vitamins.
- Sneak in vegetables: Leafy greens, root vegetables, and pulses blend imperceptibly into sweet, creamy mixes—ideal for picky eaters or kids.
- Satiety & function: Fats, proteins, and complex carbohydrates keep you full and energized longer.
Tips for Crafting the Perfect Bizarre Smoothie
- Balance bold, earthy flavors (like beet or kale) with sweet ingredients (banana, dates, mango).
- Spices (ginger, cinnamon, turmeric) add depth while boasting functional health benefits.
- Layer textures by blending some solid ingredients less thoroughly or stirring in crunchy add-ins.
- Freeze fruits and some veggies for thicker, creamier results.
- Don’t fear pulses! Beans and chickpeas boost protein and creaminess with neutral taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can you actually taste the ‘weird’ ingredients like beans or kale?
A: When blended with fruits, milk, and flavor boosters such as cocoa or ginger, vegetables and pulses often lose their strong flavors, allowing only the colors or nutrients to shine. Most people report only tasting the primary fruits or chocolate, not the veggies.
Q: Are these smoothies good for kids?
A: Yes! These smoothie recipes are a clever way to ensure children get more fiber, vitamins, and minerals, particularly from ingredients they might normally avoid. The flavors are balanced to appeal to all ages, though you can customize sweetness as needed.
Q: Can I use non-dairy milk in these recipes?
A: Absolutely. Each recipe works with dairy or any plant-based milk substitute, such as almond, oat, or coconut milk. The choice of milk can further alter the flavor profile to your liking.
Q: Are these smoothies suitable for meal prep?
A: Most of these smoothies are best enjoyed fresh for the best flavor and nutrient retention, but you can freeze some blends in ice cube trays for future single-serving smoothies. Chia-based and oat-based blends in particular may thicken upon sitting; just give them a good stir and add liquid before drinking.
Q: How can I make my smoothie even more filling?
A: Add nut butters, seeds (chia, flax, hemp), oats, or pulses (beans, chickpeas) to ramp up the protein and fiber, creating a more substantial drink that satisfies for hours.
Final Thoughts
Next time you reach for your blender, remember: some of the most nutritious and delicious smoothies come from the most eye-opening flavor combinations. Mix and match these out-of-the-box recipes, or use them as inspiration to create your own signature blend—your taste buds, and your health, will thank you.
References
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/g45028230/7-bizarre-but-delicious-fruit-smoothie-combinations-you-have-to-try/
- https://selfhelpnirvana.com/nutrition/25-smoothie-recipes-that-are-both-nutritious-and-tasty/
- https://www.healthdigest.com/1744277/fall-asleep-quickly-drink-fruit-kiwi-banana-smoothie-before-bed/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OD14-cYcSm8
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a20523610/green-goddess-smoothie/
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