Vegan Smoothie Recipes: Cooling Dragon Fruit Bowl

If the hot weather has you feeling a little lifeless, it’s probably time for a delicious fruit smoothie, preferably one that's raw and vegan, of course! Enter this dragon fruit bowl. With cucumber, ginger, and frozen banana, it’s ultra-hydrating and cooling. If you haven’t tried dragon fruit yet, you’re in for a treat! Native to Central America, the water dense dragon fruit (or pitaya) has a refreshing, sweet taste—similar to that of a kiwi or a pear. The white flesh and edible black seeds provide 3x the vitamin C as a serving of carrots. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the body’s immune system (as we all remind ourselves during flu season), helps the body flush out heavy metals and other toxins, and improves the body’s ability to cope with stress. The seeds contain fiber and polyunsaturated fat (omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids), both of which aid the bowels. Crunchy dragon fruit is also a good source of iron and B vitamins. Sometimes I like to top my smoothie bowls with all sorts of goodies—fresh fruit slices, berries, chia seeds, hemp seeds, coconut flakes, lucuma powder, and homemade granola. Other times, I enjoy my smoothie bowls sans toppings. I’ve listed a few suggested toppings here, but feel free to make up your own. Enjoy!