Fresh from my Supercharged Kitchen: Blueberry Basil Smoothie Bites

If you're anything like me, you're always on the hunt for wholesome treats that bring joy to both little ones and grown-ups alike. Today, I'm excited to share these gorgeous Blueberry Basil Smoothie Bites – a recipe that's become an absolute favourite in my household and one with my clients. It comes straight out of the pages of my latest book; Nature’s Way to Healing. A Long Covid Guide, which is a great read for anyone healing from post viral illness.

These vibrant purple treats aren't just Instagram-worthy; they're packed with antioxidant-rich blueberries, exotic dragon fruit, and a surprising hint of fresh basil that takes them from lovely to extraordinary. The addition of chia seeds brings omega-3s and fibre to the gut friendly party, while coconut milk and yoghurt provide that creamy, satisfying mouthfeel we all crave.

What I particularly love about these smoothie bites is their versatility. Serve them as an after-school treat or present them as a sophisticated dessert at your next dinner party.

They're perfect for:

• After-school treats (much better than those processed snacks!)
• Summer garden parties
• Post-workout refuelling
• Elegant dinner party desserts
• Afternoon tea with the girls

The combination of blueberry and basil is unexpectedly divine, and the dragon fruit adds both nutrition and that gorgeous purple hue that makes these bites simply irresistible. As a nutritionist, I'm always looking for ways to sneak more goodness into my client’s daily routines, and these little gems tick all the boxes. They're dairy-free, packed with antioxidants, and contain no refined sugars. The chia seeds help stabilise blood sugar levels, while the healthy fats from coconut will keep you satisfied.

What makes these little gems so special, ingredient by ingredient:

Blueberries: These mighty berries are true superheroes in the world of nutrition. They're packed with anthocyanins, the compounds that give them their gorgeous purple-blue colour and provide remarkable antioxidant benefits. Research suggests they support brain health, improve memory, and may even help slow cognitive decline. They're also brilliant for skin health and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

Dragon Fruit (Pitaya): This exotic beauty isn't just for show! Dragon fruit is rich in vitamin C, iron, and magnesium. It contains several types of antioxidants, including betalains, which help protect your cells from damage. It's also wonderful for digestive health, thanks to its prebiotic fibre content that feeds our beneficial gut bacteria.

Coconut Milk: I'm particularly fond of coconut milk for its healthy medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These fats are metabolised differently from other fats, providing quick energy and potentially supporting weight management. It's also wonderfully creamy without containing any dairy, making it perfect for those with lactose sensitivities.

Coconut Yoghurt: This creamy favourite supports gut health and immune function. It's also rich in healthy fats that help absorb fat-soluble vitamins and keep you feeling satisfied.

Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are absolute nutrition dynamos! They're loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation. They're also brilliant for fibre content - just one tablespoon provides about 5 grams of fibre. The combination of protein, healthy fats, and fibre helps stabilise blood sugar levels and keeps those afternoon energy dips at bay.

Love Your Gut Synbiotic powder combines probiotics, prebiotics, digestive enzymes and dietary fibre to support overall wellbeing. This powerful blend helps maintain healthy digestion, reduces bloating and digestive discomfort, and supports regular bowel movements while enhancing nutrient absorption. It helps establish and maintain a diverse gut microbiome, creating an environment where beneficial bacteria can thrive while crowding out harmful bacteria. The powder supports energy levels, metabolism, and weight management through improved nutrient absorption, while also contributing to skin health via the gut-skin axis.

Basil: This isn't just a garnish. Basil is a therapeutic herb that's been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It's rich in vitamin K, essential for bone health, and contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. The essential oils in basil can help support mental clarity and reduce stress - something we could all use a bit more of.

Sea Salt: A pinch of good quality sea salt isn't just for flavour - it contains trace minerals our bodies need and helps balance electrolytes. It also enhances the natural sweetness of the fruits, allowing us to keep these treats free from added sugars.

Meal Prep Magic: I often make several batches at weekend and pop them in the freezer. They'll keep beautifully for up to two weeks, though in my house they rarely last that long! For busy mums and professionals (I know how busy life can get), having these on hand is an absolute lifesaver. When the afternoon sugar cravings hit or when the children are clamouring for a treat, you'll have these ready to go.

For my clients who are working on improving their relationship with food, these treats are particularly special. They prove that healthy eating doesn't mean deprivation - quite the opposite! They're a perfect example of how whole, nutritious ingredients can create something that feels indulgent whilst supporting our wellbeing.

Storage Wisdom: Keep these little treasures in the freezer until about 5-10 minutes before serving. They'll develop a lovely, gelato-like consistency that's absolutely divine.

A Note on Mindful Eating: When you serve these, take a moment to appreciate their beauty. Notice the vibrant colour, the subtle aroma of basil, the smooth, creamy texture. This mindful approach to eating not only enhances our enjoyment but also supports better digestion and satisfaction.

Remember, good nutrition doesn't have to be complicated. These smoothie bites prove that with just a few wholesome ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create something that's both nutritious and delightful. They're truly a testament to the joy of simple, clean eating.

Blueberry & basil smoothie bites

Top Tip: Keep frozen until ready to serve up as a delicious and cute dessert. If you're serving these at a party, try creating a little 'smoothie bite bar' with different toppings. I love offering:

• Homemade granola for crunch
• Desiccated coconut
• Cacao nibs
• Crushed nuts (if allergies aren't a concern)
• A drizzle of raw honey
• Fresh mint leaves

Makes 24 bites

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen blueberries
• 1 cup frozen dragon fruit (pitaya) chunks
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp coconut yoghurt
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tbsp Love Your Gut Synbiotic powder
• 6 basil leaves
• Pinch of sea salt
• Coconut oil spray
• Granola for topping (optional)

Method

Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend on high until smooth and creamy.

Lightly spray a 24-semi sphere silicone mould with coconut oil and pour mixture in. If you wish, you could top the smoothie bites with granola if using. Place
in the freezer until frozen, about 1–2 hours.

P.S. Remember, these keep in the freezer for up to two weeks, but I find making a double batch is always wise - they tend to disappear rather quickly!

I'd love to hear how these become a staple in your household. Do share your photos and variations with me - nothing brings me more joy than seeing how these recipes come to life in your kitchens!