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My Vitamin C Secret Green Smoothie
Not only is this delicious smoothie bursting with over 100% of your daily requirement of vitamin C – you’d never know it was hiding a bunch of greens in there too! When I made it, it came out a wonderful deep red, thanks to just a touch of beetroot and a dash of pomegranate juice. A great way to load up on greens without drinking something, well, green! This is very low sugar for a smoothie as well, as it’s a good balance between fruit and veg.
Vitamin C Secret Green Smoothie
A delicious and nutrient-packed smoothie that bursts with over 100% of your daily requirement of vitamin C. This deep red smoothie hides a bunch of greens, making it a great way to load up on veggies without drinking something green. It's also low in sugar, striking a perfect balance between fruit and veg.
Servings: 2 Serves
Calories: 100kcal
Cost: $10
Equipment
- High-powered blender
Ingredients
- 200 ml water
- 50 ml pomegranate or acai juice
- 1 large handful fresh spinach
- 1 handful fresh blueberries
- ½ cucumber peeled and chopped
- ½ orange peeled
- ½ raw beetroot peeled and chopped
- Crushed ice for serving
Instructions
- Blend the Ingredients: Whizz together all ingredients in a high-powered blender until smooth.
- Serve: Serve over a touch of crushed ice & enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the amount of pomegranate or acai juice based on your taste preference.
- For added creaminess, consider adding a small piece of avocado.
- This smoothie is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day.
Why This Smoothie Works So Well
One of the biggest challenges people face with smoothies is the sugar content. Many shop-bought options are loaded with fruit sugars and lack protein, fat, or fibre to balance them out. This Secret Green Smoothie stands out for its balance of nutrients. It’s designed to provide a substantial hit of vitamin C, with minimal sugar, and a powerful dose of greens – all while tasting great.
The Power of Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for a healthy immune system, collagen production, and antioxidant protection. This smoothie includes ingredients like pomegranate juice and beetroot, both naturally rich in vitamin C and other polyphenols. Regularly consuming foods rich in this vitamin supports your skin, joints, and cardiovascular system. For those following a Paleo diet, getting nutrients from whole food sources is key – and this smoothie delivers just that.
Hiding Greens the Delicious Way
Getting more leafy greens into your diet doesn’t have to mean eating endless salads. In fact, this smoothie is a stealthy way to pack in greens like spinach or kale. Because of the beetroot and pomegranate, you won’t even notice the green colour – or the earthy taste. If you’re trying to get kids (or picky adults) to eat more greens, this is a great way to do it without the fuss.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Nutrition
Depending on your preferences and dietary needs, there are plenty of optional extras you can add to this smoothie without impacting the flavour:
- Collagen peptides – great for skin, joints, and gut health
- Chia seeds – for added fibre and omega-3s
- Avocado – to boost healthy fat and make the smoothie creamier
- Ginger or turmeric – anti-inflammatory and great for digestion
- Lemon or lime juice – enhances the flavour and vitamin C even more
Make-Ahead and Freezer Friendly
You can pre-portion your smoothie ingredients in freezer bags or containers to make your mornings easier. Just dump them into a blender with your chosen liquid (like coconut water or almond milk) and blend. The texture stays smooth, and the nutrient density is preserved.
Best Times to Enjoy This Smoothie
While it’s ideal first thing in the morning, this smoothie also makes a brilliant post-workout option. Its combination of nutrients helps replenish what you’ve lost while training and gives your cells a much-needed antioxidant boost. It’s also a perfect choice during flu season or any time your immune system needs extra support.
Making It Kid-Friendly
If you want to share this with younger family members, consider using a frozen banana or a few strawberries to make it a bit sweeter without relying on added sugars. A reusable smoothie pouch or fun straw can help get kids on board too!
What to Serve Alongside
Pair this smoothie with a boiled egg or some leftover roast chicken for a protein boost. You could also serve it with a few slices of avocado toast on a Paleo-friendly bread to make it a complete breakfast.
Tips for Getting the Smoothest Texture
Use a high-speed blender, and always blend the greens with your liquid first before adding the other ingredients. This helps break down any fibrous bits and creates a more pleasant texture. Adding the beetroot in small chunks also helps to avoid any grittiness.
Let’s Talk Colour
One of the reasons this smoothie is so appealing is its vibrant red hue. Colour plays a big role in how appetising we find food, and that’s part of why this smoothie works so well. It looks beautiful, tastes great, and still delivers a serious dose of nutrients.
Understanding Natural Vitamin C Sources
While oranges get all the fame, many other fruits and vegetables offer higher vitamin C content – without the sugar spike. Think of ingredients like kale, broccoli, capsicum, parsley, and even kiwi fruit. In this smoothie, we’re leaning on pomegranate, beetroot, and leafy greens to deliver a more stable, wholefood-based vitamin C hit. These sources are less likely to cause a blood sugar crash, making them ideal for anyone following a low-glycaemic or Paleo lifestyle.
Supporting Immunity the Paleo Way
The Paleo approach focuses on whole foods, seasonal eating, and nutrient density – all of which support a strong immune system. This smoothie aligns perfectly, offering immune-supporting compounds not just from vitamin C, but from plant polyphenols, natural nitrates (from beetroot), and anti-inflammatory compounds. For those prone to colds or fatigue, adding this smoothie into your morning routine can provide that extra layer of defence.
Blending vs Juicing: Why It Matters
Unlike juicing, which strips fibre from fruits and vegetables, blending keeps the whole food intact. This matters, especially in a Paleo context, where fibre plays a key role in digestive health, satiety, and gut microbiome balance. The leafy greens in this smoothie provide insoluble fibre, which helps to keep things moving, while the fruit and beetroot contribute soluble fibre for feeding beneficial bacteria.
Smart Smoothie Upgrades
Want to customise this base smoothie recipe for your specific health goals? Here are a few tailored ideas:
- Energy boost: Add a teaspoon of maca powder or raw cacao for a natural lift
- Gut health: Try adding a splash of coconut kefir or a spoonful of sauerkraut juice
- Hormonal support: Add flaxseeds or sesame seeds, which are rich in lignans
- Detox support: Add fresh coriander to help bind heavy metals
How to Batch Prep for the Week
To make weekday mornings stress-free, prep your smoothie ingredients in jars or ziplock bags and freeze them. Combine your greens, chopped beetroot, and fruit in each bag. In the morning, simply pour into your blender with your chosen liquid and blend until smooth. Not only does this save time, but it helps reduce waste and makes it far more likely that you’ll actually stick to your healthy breakfast habit.
Vitamin C Absorption: Best Practices
To get the most out of the vitamin C in your smoothie, pair it with ingredients that help absorption. Fat-soluble compounds, like the healthy fats found in avocado or chia seeds, aid in the uptake of certain antioxidants. Additionally, the iron in leafy greens is absorbed more efficiently when eaten alongside vitamin C – so this smoothie is doing double duty.
What Makes This Smoothie Paleo?
Unlike commercial smoothies, which often include yoghurt, added sugar, or processed juice concentrates, this recipe sticks to whole, unprocessed ingredients. No dairy, no grains, no additives – just nutrient-rich produce, blended to perfection. The natural sweetness comes from fruit and beetroot, not syrups or juices, aligning with the principles of ancestral nutrition.
Other Creative Ways to Use the Base
This smoothie isn’t just for drinking! Pour it into:
- Popsicle moulds for a summer-friendly treat
- Ice cube trays to use in future smoothies or mix into water for flavour
- Chia pudding bases for a vibrant, fruity breakfast option
Stretch your ingredients further and reduce food waste by reimagining your smoothie in creative ways.
Boosting Your Child’s Nutrient Intake
Fussy eaters often miss out on vital nutrients – especially if they dislike vegetables. By presenting this smoothie in a fun cup or even adding a silly name like “Super Red Power Juice,” you’re more likely to get buy-in from kids. You might even involve them in the prep process, letting them choose a few ingredients to feel ownership of their healthy choice.
Seasonal Swaps to Keep Things Fresh
Depending on what's in season, try rotating your ingredients:
- Swap beetroot for carrot or roasted pumpkin
- Use raspberries or mango instead of pomegranate
- Try cos lettuce or baby spinach when kale isn’t available
Eating seasonally is a big part of the Paleo lifestyle – and often far cheaper too, especially here in Australia where produce cycles can vary widely between states.
More Than Just a Smoothie
Think of this recipe not just as a drink, but as a simple, powerful tool in your health toolkit. It’s a low-effort, high-reward way to introduce variety, phytonutrients, and colour to your diet – without needing to cook. When mornings are rushed or your appetite is low, this smoothie can help you stay on track with your wellness goals.
Inspired to Try More?
If you love this smoothie, you might also enjoy experimenting with other vegetable-based blends. Think cucumber and mint, carrot and ginger, or even cauliflower and berry for a lower-carb option. The more vegetables you can sneak in without noticing, the more powerful your nutrition becomes – without sacrificing taste.
How do you sneak greens into your meals? Let me know in the comments – I'd love to hear your go-to tricks!
Final Thought
Don’t be afraid to experiment. The best thing about smoothies is how adaptable they are. You can swap the beetroot for carrot, use different greens, or even add herbs like mint or basil for a completely different profile. The core idea is to make vegetables delicious – and this recipe does exactly that.
Ultimate Comfort: Delicious Tomato-Free Bolognese for Allergies
As I wrote about yesterday, I'm currently trying to avoid tomatoes and undertake a low-salicylate Paleo diet. I usually use a lot of tomatoes in my cooking, as they are a great base for sauces and meals. My favourite dishes, ragu, bolognese and chilli all use lots of tomatoes, so I've been experimenting to find an alternative.
Since tomatoes are a nightshade, this recipe will be helpful to those avoiding nightshades too. I've also just realized that tomatoes have quadrupled in price in the last few months – so this is also good for the budget!
I used carrots and beetroot to make the “tomato” sauce, which I then used exactly as I would a real tomato sauce with the rest of the ingredients in this bolognese. I'm not that keen on beetroot on it’s own but in this dish with all of the other flavours, it was a great addition.
Tomato-Free Bolognese Recipe
If you avoid salicylates or don't tolerate tomatoes well, this tomato-free bolognese recipe will meet your needs for a tomato-based sauce without the tomatoes! Made with carrots and beetroot, it tastes great and looks very tomatoey, perfect for those avoiding nightshades and looking for a budget-friendly alternative.
Servings: 6
Calories: 250kcal
Cost: 15
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Blender
- Saute Pan
Ingredients
- Carrots I used about 9
- Beetroot I used 4
- Leek diced
- 3 diced onions
- Parsnip
- 7 mushrooms sliced
- Pork mince 500g
- Beef mince 500g
- Coconut oil
- Coconut aminos
- Garlic powder
- Oregano
- Cinnamon
- Cayenne pepper
- Ground chilli
- Salt & Pepper
Instructions
- I peeled and roughly chopped the carrots, beetroot & parsnip and added them to a large pan of boiling water
- Meanwhile, in another pan I sautéed the onions in some coconut oil until they turned translucent
- Next, I added the mince and a splash of coconut aminos
- Once the meat had all browned, I added the leek, mushrooms and a small amount of each of the herbs and spices (I don’t use very much, but adjust according to how hot you like it – and how little you like beetroot!)
- I allowed the meat mixture to simmer on a low heat, stirring regularly, and adding water from the carrot & beetroot pan as it dried out
- Once the carrots and beetroot's started to soften, I turned the heat off and puréed in the blender
- With the tomato-free “tomato sauce” ready, I added it to the meat pan and allowed it to simmer for a few minutes before serving
If you have any suggestions for alternatives to tomatoes, please share in the comments below…
Why Go Tomato-Free?
Tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many cuisines, but they’re also high in salicylates, which can cause adverse reactions in some people. For those with sensitivities or on an elimination diet, even a small amount of tomato can trigger digestive issues, headaches, or inflammation. Nightshade vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and aubergines are also often problematic for individuals with autoimmune conditions or chronic joint pain. By removing tomatoes, you may notice improvements in your skin, energy levels, and overall digestion.
Creating a Rich, Flavourful Sauce Without Tomatoes
The key to replacing tomatoes in a dish like bolognese lies in replicating their depth of flavour, acidity, and colour. Carrots add natural sweetness, while beetroot lends a similar hue to tomato sauce and a slightly earthy complexity. When paired with ingredients like garlic, herbs, and a splash of balsamic vinegar (if tolerated), you can achieve a hearty sauce that hits all the right notes without any tomatoes involved.
Tips for Perfecting Your Tomato-Free Bolognese
- Cook your base vegetables slowly – sweating the onion, carrot, and celery gently will create a rich foundation for the sauce.
- Choose your beetroot wisely – roasted beetroot adds depth and removes some of the earthy flavour that can be overwhelming when raw.
- Simmer low and slow – just like a traditional bolognese, this sauce improves with time. Letting it simmer allows the flavours to marry beautifully.
- Add broth – using a good-quality beef or bone broth adds umami richness that helps mimic the savoury depth tomatoes usually provide.
Serving Suggestions
This bolognese is incredibly versatile. Serve it over:
- Zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a classic Paleo twist
- Mashed sweet potato or parsnip for a comforting, hearty base
- Spaghetti squash if in season
- Cauliflower rice for a lighter option
It also works wonderfully spooned into halved roasted capsicum or even in a lettuce wrap for a fresh summer alternative.
Batch Cooking and Storage
This tomato-free bolognese freezes and reheats exceptionally well, making it a great option for batch cooking. Simply double the recipe and freeze portions in airtight containers for quick weeknight meals. It’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer and about 4 days in the fridge.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve nailed the base recipe, feel free to experiment:
- Swap the beef for lamb, turkey, or pork for a different flavour profile.
- Add chopped mushrooms for extra umami and texture.
- Include spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an added boost of greens.
- Top with nutritional yeast or dairy-free parmesan for a savoury finish.
A Family Favourite Without the Fuss
One of the best things about this tomato-free bolognese is how well it’s received, even by those who normally love their tomato-based meals. It’s kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and packed with hidden veggies, which is always a win. You can confidently serve it to guests, knowing it caters to a wide range of dietary needs without compromising on flavour.
Tomato-Free Doesn’t Mean Taste-Free
It’s easy to feel like you’re missing out when avoiding common ingredients like tomatoes, especially in dishes as iconic as bolognese. But with a bit of creativity and a willingness to explore, you’ll find there are many ways to achieve similar flavours and textures. The combination of carrots and beetroot in this recipe adds colour, body, and a touch of natural sweetness, all while keeping the dish firmly within Paleo and low-salicylate guidelines.
Your Turn: Share Your Tips!
Have you created a tomato-free version of your favourite dish? Do you have other go-to ingredients for recreating sauces and bases? Whether it’s pumpkin, red capsicum (if tolerated), or even fermented vegetables, I’d love to hear what works for you. Share your ideas in the comments below – your suggestion might just help someone else who’s navigating similar food restrictions.
Looking for More Tomato-Free Inspiration?
Keep an eye on the blog for more tomato-free recipes, including chilli, ragu, and other classics made suitable for low-salicylate and nightshade-free diets. Once you start experimenting, you’ll be surprised at how many ways there are to adapt your favourites and still enjoy delicious, nourishing meals.
This Tomato-Free Bolognese is a great reminder that limitations can often lead to the most creative – and delicious – discoveries. Whether you’re avoiding tomatoes for health reasons or simply looking for a new twist on an old classic, this dish is a must-try.