Some mornings want a clean spark rather than a heavy meal. This “elixir” is just that: a fast blend of açaí (dark-berry depth), chia (silky body + omega-3s), and spirulina (a mineral-green accent), balanced so it tastes like breakfast, not a supplement.
Core recipe (1 tall glass)
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen açaí puree or berries (or mixed dark berries if subbing)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tsp spirulina powder (optional; see swaps)
- ½ small banana or ½ cup mango/pineapple (creaminess + gentle sweetness)
- 1 tsp fresh lemon or orange juice (lifts the berries)
- Ice as needed
Method
- Add liquids first, then everything else.
- Blend until perfectly smooth; rest 1 minute so chia thickens slightly, then pulse again.
- Taste and adjust: more citrus for brightness, more milk for a thinner sip.
Texture tip: For an extra-silky body, pre-soak the chia 5–10 minutes in part of the milk.
Variations
- Creamy Cacao Glow: add 1 tsp cacao powder + 1 tsp almond butter.
- Citrus Lift: use ½ cup orange juice + ½ cup water as liquid; add zest pinch.
- Green & Gentle: skip spirulina; add a handful of baby spinach + 1 tsp hemp seeds.
- Protein Push: use soy/dairy milk and add a neutral protein scoop you like.
Smart substitutions
- No açaí? Use frozen blueberries/blackberries.
- No chia? Use 2 tsp flax meal (blend and drink promptly).
- Spirulina too bold? Start with ¼ tsp or omit entirely.
Make-ahead & storage
- Fridge: Up to 24 hours in a sealed jar; shake well (chia settles).
- Freezer: Pour into cups or molds and freeze; thaw overnight in the fridge.
Safety & sourcing notes
- Choose food-grade spirulina from reputable suppliers. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or have specific conditions, check with a professional before adding algae powders.
- Allergies? Use nut-free milk (oat, rice) and skip nut butters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of açaí berries in the ‘Elixir of Life’ smoothie?
A: Açaí adds fiber and polyphenols with a deep berry flavor that thickens the blend and plays nicely with cacao, citrus, and nut milks.
Can I make the ‘Elixir of Life’ smoothie without spirulina?
A: Absolutely, omit it, or swap in spinach or hemp seeds for gentle greens and minerals.
What liquid works best for the ‘Elixir of Life’ smoothie, almond milk, dairy, or water?
A: Almond/oat keeps it light; dairy/soy adds protein; a water, orange-juice mix brightens fruit notes.
Can I prep the ‘Elixir of Life’ smoothie ahead and store it?
A: Refrigerate up to 24 hours or freeze in portions; shake or re-blend to fix separation.
How can I sweeten the ‘Elixir of Life’ smoothie without adding sugar?
A: Use ½ banana, a few soaked dates, or naturally sweet fruit (mango, pineapple); start small and adjust.
