Beet Smoothie Recipe

A good beet smoothie recipe delivers one of the most stunning drinks you can blend at home, with its deep magenta color and naturally sweet, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with fruit.

Beets are one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables around, and blending them into a smoothie is one of the easiest ways to work them into your daily routine without any cooking required.

Raw red beets, frozen banana, frozen strawberries, orange juice, and a knob of fresh ginger form the foundation of this popular, widely-loved version. It is quick to prepare, requires no cooking, and delivers a creamy, fruit-forward drink that even beet skeptics tend to enjoy.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	10 minutes
Servings	2 smoothies
Difficulty Level	Easy

If you love blended drinks that are as nourishing as they are delicious, you might also enjoy my Strawberry Banana Smoothie.

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Why You’ll Love This Beet Smoothie Recipe

This beet smoothie recipe has become a go-to because it checks every box: it is fast, nutritious, naturally sweet, and visually striking.

Here is what makes it worth adding to your regular rotation:

• It requires no cooking. Raw beets go straight into the blender, which means you keep all their nutritional value intact without firing up the stove.
• The color is incredible. The deep magenta hue comes entirely from the beets and strawberries, with zero artificial coloring.
• It is naturally sweet. Frozen banana and strawberries provide plenty of sweetness, so no added sugar is needed.
• It is beginner-friendly. If you have never used beets in a smoothie before, this recipe is the perfect starting point.
• It blends in under 5 minutes. Once your ingredients are prepped, the actual blending takes less than two minutes.
• It is easily customizable. Swap the milk, add protein powder, or change the berries based on what you have on hand.
• It works for breakfast or a snack. The fiber and natural sugars provide lasting energy without a crash.
• It is gluten-free and dairy-free by default. Use your preferred milk and this recipe suits most dietary needs.

For another vibrant green option that packs in the vegetables, take a look at my Green Smoothie.

Ingredients

You only need a handful of fresh and frozen ingredients to make this smoothie. Using frozen banana and frozen strawberries is key to achieving that thick, creamy, ice-cream-like texture without needing to add a cup of ice.

• 1 medium raw red beet (about 150g / 5.3 oz), scrubbed, peeled, and roughly chopped
• 1 large frozen banana (about 120g / 4.2 oz), broken into chunks
• 1 cup (140g / 5 oz) frozen strawberries
• 1 cup (240ml / 8 fl oz) orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup (120ml / 4 fl oz) unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) piece of fresh ginger, peeled
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for added fiber and omega-3s)

For another nutrient-packed green smoothie that uses leafy vegetables, my Spinach Smoothie is a great companion recipe to try.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

The right equipment makes blending beets effortless. Beets are a firm vegetable, so having a powerful blender is especially important here.

• High-speed blender (essential for blending raw beets completely smooth)
• Vegetable brush (for scrubbing the beet skin before peeling)
• Sharp chef’s knife and cutting board (for chopping the beet and ginger)
• Vegetable peeler (for peeling the raw beet)
• Measuring cups and measuring spoons
• Two large glasses or mason jars for serving
• Reusable smoothie straws (optional but recommended for thicker smoothies)

Read Also: Berry Smoothie Recipe

Recommended Products for This Recipe

These are personal recommendations based on making this beet smoothie many times. Each product solves a real problem and genuinely improves the final result.

1. Vitamix 5200 Blender

A standard blender often struggles with raw beets, leaving chunks in your drink and a gritty texture. The Vitamix 5200 handles raw beets with ease, producing a completely silky smooth result every single time. It is the single best investment you can make if you blend smoothies regularly.

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2. OXO Good Grips Swivel Vegetable Peeler

Peeling raw beets can be slippery and messy, especially with a dull peeler. The OXO Good Grips peeler has a sharp, swivel blade and a comfortable non-slip handle that makes peeling beets fast and safe. The Y-shaped design gives you excellent control on curved surfaces like beets.

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3. Navitas Organics Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are one of the best add-ins for this smoothie, boosting fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein without changing the flavor at all. Navitas Organics sources high-quality, certified organic chia seeds that blend in cleanly. A tablespoon added before blending gives the smoothie a slightly thicker texture and keeps you full for hours.

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4. Weck Tulip Jar Set

Serving this smoothie in a wide, clear jar lets you appreciate that stunning magenta color before you even take a sip. Weck Tulip Jars are beautiful, leak-resistant, and made of thick glass, making them perfect for smoothies, meal prep, and overnight oats. They also come with glass lids so you can store any leftovers in the fridge.

Get it on Amazon

For another blended drink with creamy, smooth results, check out my Avocado Smoothie.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Beet Smoothie

Step 1: Prepare the Beet

• Scrub the raw beet thoroughly under cold running water using a vegetable brush to remove any dirt from the skin.
• Trim off the leafy stem end and the thin root tip using a sharp knife.
• Using a vegetable peeler, peel the beet completely. Note that beet juice stains, so work on a surface you are comfortable staining or use gloves.
• Chop the peeled beet into rough 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. Smaller pieces blend more easily and reduce the strain on your blender motor.

Step 2: Prepare the Remaining Ingredients

• Break the frozen banana into 3 or 4 large chunks. If you do not have a frozen banana on hand, use a fresh banana plus 1/2 cup (120ml) of ice cubes to maintain a thick, cold texture.
• Measure out 1 cup (140g) of frozen strawberries directly from the freezer. Do not thaw them first.
• Peel the 1/2-inch piece of fresh ginger and slice it into a couple of smaller pieces so it blends more evenly.
• Measure out your orange juice and almond milk.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients in the Blender

• Add the liquids to the blender first: pour in the orange juice and almond milk. Starting with the liquids helps the blender blades engage immediately and prevents air pockets.
• Add the chopped raw beet pieces next.
• Add the fresh ginger pieces.
• Add the frozen banana chunks on top.
• Finally, add the frozen strawberries last, on the very top. Frozen ingredients on top help push the other ingredients down toward the blades.
• If using chia seeds, add them now before blending.

Step 4: Blend Until Completely Smooth

• Start your blender on a low speed for about 10 seconds to break down the larger beet chunks and get everything moving.
• Gradually increase to the highest speed setting.
• Blend on high for 60 to 90 seconds, or until the smoothie is completely smooth with no visible beet chunks.
• If your blender struggles at any point, stop it, use the tamper tool if your blender has one, or add 2 to 3 tablespoons of additional orange juice or almond milk to loosen the blend.

Step 5: Taste, Adjust, and Serve

• Stop the blender and taste the smoothie with a spoon.
• If you prefer it sweeter, add 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup and blend for another 10 seconds.
• If it is too thick for your preference, add a splash more orange juice and blend briefly.
• Pour into two large glasses or mason jars and serve immediately for the best texture and freshest flavor.
• Garnish with a slice of strawberry on the rim or a sprinkle of chia seeds on top if desired.

Read Also: Blueberry Smoothie Recipe

Tips for The Best Beet Smoothie

Small adjustments make a significant difference when blending beets. These tips come directly from trial and error in the kitchen.

• Use frozen fruit, not ice. Frozen banana and frozen strawberries give you a thick, creamy smoothie without diluting the flavor the way ice does. Ice is a backup, not a first choice.
• Do not skip the ginger. Fresh ginger is the secret weapon in this recipe. It cuts through the earthiness of the raw beet and adds a bright, slightly spicy note that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Chop the beet small. Even powerful blenders benefit from smaller beet pieces. Cutting to 1-inch cubes or smaller prevents motor strain and ensures a completely silky result.
• Start with less beet if you are new to it. If you have never had raw beet in a smoothie before, start with half a small beet and work your way up. The flavor is earthy and bold, and the banana and strawberries do a great job of balancing it, but going slowly helps you find your preferred ratio.
• Liquid goes in first. Always add the liquids before the solids. This protects your blender blades and ensures the ingredients blend evenly from the start.
• Taste before adding sweetener. Depending on the ripeness of your banana and the sweetness of your strawberries, you may not need honey or maple syrup at all. Always taste first.
• Wear gloves or work fast. Beet juice is a very effective natural dye. It will stain your hands, cutting board, and countertops. A pair of disposable gloves makes cleanup much easier.
• Chill your glasses. Pop your serving glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before blending. It keeps the smoothie colder for longer, especially important for thick smoothies that take a few minutes to drink.
• Use the best blender you have. Raw beets are dense and fibrous. A basic personal blender can produce a slightly gritty result. If smooth texture is important to you, use the most powerful blender available.

You might also enjoy: Mango Smoothie

What to Serve with Beet Smoothie

A beet smoothie is a complete, satisfying drink on its own, but pairing it with the right foods turns it into a well-rounded breakfast or snack.

• Overnight oats: The smoothie provides natural sugars and antioxidants while a jar of overnight oats adds slow-burning carbohydrates and keeps you full all morning.
• Avocado toast: The creamy fat from avocado toast complements the bright acidity of the smoothie perfectly, making this a balanced and visually stunning breakfast combination.
• A soft-boiled or poached egg: Adding a simple egg on the side gives you protein to go alongside the fiber and natural sugars in the smoothie.
• Granola: A small bowl of granola alongside the smoothie provides crunch and extra whole grains that the drink alone cannot offer.
• A banana muffin or healthy banana bread: A slice of banana bread is a natural pairing since banana is already in the smoothie, creating a cohesive flavor profile.
• Greek yogurt with honey: A small pot of thick Greek yogurt on the side adds protein and probiotics to round out the meal nutritionally.
• Fresh fruit skewers: Simple skewers of pineapple, melon, and berries make a bright and complementary side that feels celebratory without requiring any extra effort.
• A light green salad: For a midday snack situation, a handful of dressed greens alongside the smoothie creates a surprisingly complete light lunch.

For an equally creamy and naturally sweet blended drink, try my Banana Smoothie.

Variations of Beet Smoothie

Once you have the base recipe down, it is easy to adapt. Here are some of the best variations to try.

• Beet and Berry Smoothie: Replace the strawberries with a mixture of frozen blueberries and raspberries. The color deepens to a rich purple and the flavor becomes more tart and complex.
• Beet and Pineapple Smoothie: Swap the strawberries for frozen pineapple chunks. Pineapple is one of the best flavor partners for beet because its intense tropical sweetness almost completely masks the earthiness.
• Beet and Apple Smoothie: Replace the orange juice with fresh apple juice and add half a cored apple to the blender. This creates a lighter, more refreshing result with a classic autumn flavor.
• Creamy Beet Smoothie with Coconut: Substitute the almond milk with full-fat coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture and a subtle tropical flavor.
• Protein Beet Smoothie: Add one scoop of vanilla protein powder along with the other ingredients. This turns the smoothie into a post-workout recovery drink without significantly changing the flavor.
• Beet and Carrot Smoothie: Add one small peeled and chopped carrot to the blender alongside the beet. Both root vegetables have similar earthy sweetness and the carrot brightens the flavor while adding extra beta-carotene.
• Beet and Spinach Smoothie: Add a large handful of fresh baby spinach. The spinach disappears completely into the flavor while adding a significant nutritional boost.
• Spiced Beet Smoothie: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon and a pinch of ground cardamom. These warm spices pair unexpectedly well with the earthiness of the beet and give the smoothie a chai-like warmth.
• Vegan Beet Smoothie with Dates: Swap the honey for 2 pitted Medjool dates for a natural, whole-food sweetener that also thickens the smoothie slightly.

Read Also: Peach Smoothie Recipe

Storage and Reheating

Beet smoothies are best consumed immediately after blending for the optimal flavor and texture. That said, there are practical ways to store and manage leftovers.

• Refrigerator storage: Pour any leftover smoothie into an airtight glass container or mason jar and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. The smoothie will naturally separate over time, so shake or stir vigorously before drinking.
• Oxidation and color change: The smoothie may turn slightly darker or more brownish on top after refrigeration due to oxidation. This is purely aesthetic and does not affect the flavor or safety of the drink. Stir it back together before consuming.
• Freezer storage: Pour the smoothie into a freezer-safe container or ice cube trays and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and blend briefly to restore the smooth texture before drinking.
• Smoothie prep packs: Portion the raw ingredients (chopped beet, strawberries, banana chunks, and ginger) into zip-top bags and freeze. When ready to blend, dump the frozen pack directly into the blender, add your liquids, and blend. This is a great meal prep strategy for busy mornings.
• Do not leave at room temperature: Avoid leaving a beet smoothie sitting out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as the dairy or milk base can begin to deteriorate.
• Glass containers preferred: Store in glass containers rather than plastic when possible. Beet juice stains plastic containers easily, and glass keeps the smoothie fresher and odor-free.

For another beautifully colored smoothie that stores equally well, check out my Watermelon Smoothie.

Nutritional Facts

The following values are approximate and based on one serving (half the recipe) using orange juice and unsweetened almond milk without added honey.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
Calories	210 kcal
Carbohydrates	48g
Protein	4g
Total Fat	2g
Saturated Fat	0.2g
Fiber	6g
Sugar	30g (naturally occurring)
Sodium	110mg
Potassium	720mg
Vitamin C	85mg (94% DV)
Folate	110mcg (28% DV)
Iron	1.8mg (10% DV)
Calcium	150mg (15% DV)

For another high-antioxidant smoothie with impressive nutritional stats, try my Kale and Fruit Smoothie.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Every ingredient in this beet smoothie was chosen intentionally, and each one contributes something meaningful to your health.

• Raw beets: Beets are one of the richest natural sources of dietary nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps relax and dilate blood vessels, supporting healthy blood pressure and improved circulation. Beets are also an excellent source of folate, manganese, and vitamin C.
• Frozen banana: Bananas are a natural source of potassium, which supports heart health and proper muscle function. They also provide vitamin B6 for brain health and prebiotic fiber that feeds beneficial gut bacteria.
• Frozen strawberries: Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C, providing nearly the full daily recommended amount in a single cup. They are also rich in anthocyanins, a class of antioxidants that have been linked to reduced inflammation and improved cardiovascular health.
• Orange juice: Orange juice contributes vitamin C, folate, and hesperidin, a flavonoid that supports blood vessel health. Using freshly squeezed orange juice also provides natural enzymes that support digestion.
• Fresh ginger: Ginger contains gingerol, a bioactive compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has long been used to support digestive health, reduce nausea, and ease muscle soreness.
• Chia seeds (optional add-in): Chia seeds provide plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, a significant amount of fiber, and calcium. Just one tablespoon adds about 3 grams of fiber and 2 grams of protein to the smoothie.
• Almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk is low in calories and provides a dairy-free source of calcium and vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that supports skin health and immune function.

You might also enjoy: Dragon Fruit Smoothie

FAQs About Beet Smoothie

1. Do I need to cook the beets before blending?

No, you do not need to cook the beets for this recipe. Raw beets actually retain more nutrients than cooked beets, and a powerful blender will handle them with ease. If you prefer a milder, slightly sweeter flavor, you can use pre-cooked vacuum-packed beets from the grocery store as a convenient shortcut.

2. Will the beet smoothie taste too earthy or “dirt-like”?

The raw beet does have a distinct earthy flavor, but the frozen strawberries, banana, and orange juice in this recipe balance it out considerably. Most people who try this smoothie for the first time are surprised by how fruit-forward and sweet it tastes. If you are especially sensitive to the beet flavor, start with just half a small beet and adjust upward from there.

3. Can I use canned or pre-cooked beets instead of raw?

Yes, canned or vacuum-packed pre-cooked beets work very well in this smoothie. Drain and rinse canned beets before adding them to the blender. Pre-cooked beets will produce a slightly milder, less earthy flavor compared to raw beets, which some people actually prefer.

4. Why did my smoothie turn out gritty or chunky?

A gritty or chunky result almost always comes down to the power of the blender. Raw beets are dense and fibrous, and a standard personal blender may not be able to fully break them down. The solution is to cut the beet into very small pieces (1/2-inch cubes or smaller), blend on high for at least 90 seconds, and if necessary, add a little more liquid to help the blades process the beet more efficiently. A high-speed blender like a Vitamix eliminates this issue entirely.

5. How can I make this smoothie higher in protein?

There are several easy ways to add protein. A scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder blends in cleanly without significantly changing the flavor. Two tablespoons of hemp hearts are another excellent option, adding about 6 grams of plant-based protein with a mild, nutty flavor. A dollop of plain Greek yogurt also adds protein and makes the smoothie even creamier, though it does add dairy.

For another vibrant, tropical smoothie to add to your morning routine, try my Pineapple Smoothie.

Final Thoughts

This beet smoothie recipe proves that healthy and delicious are not mutually exclusive. It takes about 10 minutes from start to finish, requires no cooking, and delivers a gorgeous, nutrient-packed drink that tastes far more indulgent than it has any right to.

Give it a try this week and see what you think. If you make it, leave a comment below to share how it turned out or tag your photos so others can see that beautiful color for themselves.

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