Vegan beetroot and grapefruit smoothie

Vegan beetroot and grapefruit smoothie with beetroot, ruby red grapefruit, ginger and green apple – fruity, slightly bitter and pleasantly fresh.

At a glance

• Serves 2
• Prep time: 10 min
• No cooking needed
• Total time: 10 min
• Calories: 120 kcal per serving
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbs: 24 g

Ingredients

• 1 beetroot
• ½ ruby red grapefruit
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
• ½ green apple
• 200 ml water or coconut water
• 1 handful of ice cubes
• 1 piece of grapefruit

Method

You’ll need: blender · chopping board · knife

1. Wash the beetroot, ruby red grapefruit, ginger and green apple thoroughly. Peel the beetroot and cut everything into rough chunks.
2. Carefully remove the peel, white pith and as many pips as possible from the grapefruit. This makes the smoothie milder and finer in flavour.
3. Put the beetroot, grapefruit, ginger, green apple and water or coconut water in a blender. Add the ice cubes.
4. Blend until the smoothie is creamy and even. If it seems too thick, adjust with a little water or coconut water.
5. Taste briefly: if the grapefruit is too bitter for you, an extra small piece of apple often makes it more rounded.

Good to know

This smoothie is fresh, slightly earthy and nicely bitter. I especially like it when I want something crisp and clear-tasting in a glass.

Swaps

Beetroot → cooked carrot (milder, slightly sweet) Ruby red grapefruit → orange (less bitter, fruity and fresh) Green apple → pear (gentler acidity, slightly sweeter) Coconut water → cold water with a little lemon juice (simple, refreshing and without additives)

Allergens

None of the major allergens are in here, but grapefruit can irritate sensitive people and interact with medicines; for children and during pregnancy it's usually best in small amounts.

Frequently asked questions

What nutrients does beetroot bring to this smoothie?

Beetroot contains some folate, potassium and natural plant pigments called betalains, among others. The exact content varies with the variety and size.

What does grapefruit contain nutritionally?

Grapefruit mainly provides vitamin C and some potassium. It also contains bitter compounds and other plant compounds that shape its typical bitter flavour.

Does ginger in a smoothie suit everyone?

Not always. Ginger can be pleasant, but its heat is sometimes too intense for sensitive stomachs, especially on an empty stomach.

Why does green apple make sense in this smoothie?

Green apple brings pectin, a soluble fibre, and softens the bitter note of the grapefruit and the earthiness of the beetroot. It also provides small amounts of vitamin C.

What should you watch out for with grapefruit?

Grapefruit isn't only special in flavour – it can also affect how certain medicines are broken down. If you take medication regularly, it's worth a quick check with your pharmacist or doctor.

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