When I first heard about Acai bowls, I was dying to try one. The idea of eating a huge smoothie bowl topped with a big pile of granola and fruit sounded delicious to me. The only problem was that I couldn’t find anywhere in my area that made them. That meant I had to make my own. I honestly don’t shop at Whole Foods very often ($$$), but there are a few things I will pick up there every once in a while. Sambazon Acai Berry Smoothie packs are one of those items. However, I do think you may be able to find them in the organic section of some regular grocery stores now as well. You can buy the Sambazon packs “original” or “unsweetened.” I buy unsweetened and find that if my fruit is ripe, I don’t need to add any additional sweeteners. If you try the unsweetened and find it too bitter for your liking, drizzle a little bit of honey or agave nectar (for vegan) on top of your bowl. You can also buy acai in powder form, but I prefer the smoothie packs. Acai berries have a TON of health benefits. Most people already know they acai contains an insanely high level of antioxidants. Not only do acai berries promote heart, skin, and cellular health, but they also provide an energy boost and help to improve mental function! Talk about the breakfast (or snack) of champions! When you top your acai bowl with other fruits, nuts, and seeds, you only increase the nutritional value further. I also love pitaya (dragonfruit) bowls and will definitely be posting Pitaya Bowl recipes as well. I did not include the toppings in the nutritional information below. Use what you have, use as much or little as you prefer. Mine was topped with sliced bananas, strawberries, raspberries, shredded coconut, chia seeds, cacoa nibs, and granola. I used new gluten-free Chex granola and it was really good! Would definitely recommend it whether you are gluten free or not!
Active Time: 5 minutes Total Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 2
Ingredients: 2 Sambazon Acai Berry Smoothie Packs 1 banana, frozen 1½-1¾ cups almond milk (depending on thickness preference)
sliced bananas, strawberries, raspberries, granola, shredded coconut, chia seeds, honey/agave etc. for topping
Directions:
In a high-powered blender, combine the Sambazon smoothie packs, frozen banana, and 1 ½ cups almond milk. Blend on medium-high speed until completely smooth. Pour acai mixture into a large bowl and top with granola, chia seeds, and desired fruit.
Nutrition Information per serving (without toppings):
Calories: 153 Fat: 7g Carbs: 14g Protein: 3g Sodium: 146mg Sugar: 11g
*Nutrition information is based on the products I used personally in this recipe. Different products may yield slightly different information.
