Quick Backpacking Berry Smoothie
A vibrant blend of freeze-dried fruits and superfoods that comes together in minutes at home and rehydrates beautifully on the trail. Beet powder supports endurance by improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles, chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fiber for sustained energy and hydration, and flaxseeds contribute heart-healthy fats and lignans — making this a powerhouse smoothie for your next adventure.
Adjust Calories
Ingredients
- Freeze Dried Banana56 cal • 0.9g protein15g
- Freeze Dried Berry Mix53 cal • 0.9g protein15g
- Beet Powder (Optional)25 cal10gor 1 tbsp
- Chia Seeds (Optional)60 cal • 3g protein15gor 1 tbsp
- Ground Flaxseed (Optional)53 cal • 2.1g protein9gor 1 tbsp
- Coconut Milk Powder26 cal7gor 1 tbsp
- Vegan Vanilla Protein Powder67 cal • 10.3g protein15g
- Prebiotic Pill (Optional)0 tsp
Prep Instructions
- 1Open the prebiotic pill capsule and add the powder to the food processor.
- 2Add all other ingredients to the food processor and blend until the mixture forms a fine, uniform powder.
- 3Pour into a Ziploc bag and it's ready for your next trip!
Cooking Instructions
- 1Pour the smoothie powder into your cup or container, then slowly add cold or room-temperature water and stir.
- 2Keep adding water until you reach your desired consistency. For a smoothie bowl, keep it thick and top with granola for extra crunch and calories. For a drinkable smoothie, just add a bit more water and enjoy straight away.
- 3The chia seeds will fully hydrate after about 10 minutes, but you can drink it immediately if you're in a hurry.
✨ Notes
Beet powder, chia seeds, and ground flaxseed are optional in this recipe — toggle them on or off based on your preferences or pack weight. Beet powder adds a beautiful pink color and a mild earthy flavor; chia seeds add texture as well as fiber and Omega 3s; and flaxseeds contribute a nutty flavor and heart-healthy fats. I love including all three!
About This Recipe
This smoothie is one of the easiest and most versatile backpacking recipes you can make. Mix everything in a food processor at home, pack it in a Ziploc bag, and just add water on the trail — no stove required! One serving makes about one 8 oz smoothie, though the exact amount will vary depending on how thick or thin you make it.
Nutritional Benefits
- Freeze-dried banana & berry mix: Natural sugars for quick energy and antioxidants for recovery
- Beet powder: Rich in natural nitrates that help improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to your muscles — great for high-output days on the trail
- Chia seeds: A powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein; they absorb water and help keep you feeling full and hydrated longer
- Ground flaxseed: Packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fats, lignans, and fiber for sustained energy and digestive health
- Coconut milk powder: Adds creamy richness and healthy fats
- Protein powder: Plant-based protein to support muscle recovery after a big day of hiking
Storage
Store the powder in a sealed Ziploc bag. It will stay fresh for 2–3 weeks as long as it stays dry. If you're including chia seeds, make sure the bag is completely sealed to prevent clumping from any moisture.
Keep your freeze-dried fruit in the fridge until you're ready to pack — it helps prevent it from going soft.
Brands Used
- Truvani Vegan Vanilla Protein Powder — available at Whole Foods Market
- Trader Joe's Berry Medley (freeze-dried blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries)