Watermelon, Peach and Strawberry Smoothie
I love watermelon and the fact that it is only in season for such a short time means I try to eat it as often as I can, especially during the few summer months when it is at its most refreshing and sweet.
Summer Splash: My Watermelon, Peach & Strawberry Smoothie Discovery
Hey smoothie enthusiasts! 😊 I've got a smoothie confession that might shock you – until recently, watermelon was mysteriously absent from my blender adventures! Can you believe it? Here I was, calling myself a smoothie aficionado while completely overlooking this juicy, nutrient-packed marvel that's bursting with lycopene and essential hydration.
Now I'm buzzing to share my Peachy Watermelon Smoothie creation with you. This vibrant, thirst-quenching blend has earned permanent status in my summer rotation, and after your first sip, I'm betting it'll earn a spot in yours too!
Nutritional Breakdown
Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value | Benefit |
---|---|---|---|
Calories | 306 | – | Balanced energy |
Protein | 13.6g | 27% | Muscle support & satiety |
Carbohydrates | 58.0g | 19% | Energy source |
Fiber | 5.0g | 18% | Digestive health |
Vitamin C | 97.2mg | 162% | Immune support & collagen production |
Vitamin A | 2,600 IU | 52% | Vision & immune health |
Calcium | 360mg | 36% | Bone health |
Potassium | 876mg | 25% | Electrolyte balance & heart health |
Iron | 1.8mg | 10% | Oxygen transport |
Phosphorus | 312mg | 31% | Bone health & cellular function |
Watermelon, Peach and Strawberry Smoothie Recipes
Cuisine: Refreshing SummerDifficulty: Easy2
servings5
minutes1
minute306
kcalThis has become a Friday night tradition in our home! We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.
Ingredients
2-3 cups watermelon (seeds removed)
6 ounces low-fat vanilla yogurt
1 cup frozen strawberries
1/2 cup peach juice (or 1 fresh peach if you don't have juice)
Directions
- Add yogurt to the blender first (this helps the blades move more efficiently)
- Add fruit ingredients on top of the yogurt base
- Blend on high for 45-60 seconds until smooth
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately for maximum nutrient preservation
The Nutritional Powerhouse Behind This Blend
As someone who's spent years studying nutrition and creating smoothie recipes, I'm particularly excited about the nutritional profile of this combination. Let's break down what makes these ingredients so beneficial:
Watermelon: Not Just Water
Watermelon often gets overlooked as being mostly water (it is 92% water!), but it's the remaining 8% that makes it nutritionally impressive:
- Lycopene Champion: Watermelon contains more lycopene than any other fresh fruit or vegetable – even more than tomatoes! Research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry shows that lycopene may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular disease.
- Amino Acid L-citrulline: This amino acid helps improve blood flow and can reduce muscle soreness after exercise. I've found having this smoothie after my morning run helps with recovery!
- Hydration Plus Electrolytes: Watermelon contains natural electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and a small amount of sodium – making it nature's sports drink.
Strawberries: Small But Mighty
Did you know that just 1 cup of strawberries contains:
- 150% of your daily Vitamin C needs
- Anthocyanins that help with inflammation
- Ellagic acid that may help reduce cancer risk
Studies from the Harvard School of Public Health have associated regular berry consumption with improved cognitive function and lower rates of age-related mental decline. I've been incorporating berries into my daily smoothies for years, and strawberries remain one of my favorites for both taste and health benefits.
Peaches: The Sweet Supporting Player
Peaches bring more than just flavor to this smoothie:
- Rich in potassium for heart health
- Contain beta-carotene for eye health
- Provide antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress
Watermelon Selection Tips
Look for a watermelon that:
- Feels heavy for its size
- Has a yellow spot (not white or green) where it sat on the ground
- Sounds hollow when tapped
- Has a deep green color (not pale)
The deeper the red color inside, the more lycopene it contains. I always try to find the reddest watermelon available!
How This Fits Into My Daily Nutrition
I don't believe in “diet” thinking – I focus on adding good things rather than restricting. This smoothie isn't a meal replacement for me but rather a nutritional complement to my regular eating pattern.
On days when I have this smoothie, I notice:
- Better hydration (measured by fewer headaches and clearer urine)
- Sustained energy (no mid-afternoon slump)
- Reduced cravings for sweet snacks
- Improved recovery after workouts
Finding Balance & Joy in Smoothie Making
What I love most about this smoothie is how it embodies balance:
- Sweet but not sugary
- Nutritious but delicious
- Light but satisfying
- Simple but sophisticated in flavor
I've found that maintaining healthy habits is about finding joy in the process, not forcing yourself to consume things you don't enjoy. The bright color of this smoothie alone makes me happy, and knowing the nutrition it provides makes me feel good about my choices.
If you try this recipe, drop me a comment below! I'd love to hear how you enjoyed it and any tweaks you made to make it your own.