Very few smoothies can rival the invigorating combination of strawberries and cucumbers.
Truthfully, I never thought cucumbers could work in a smoothie. I never actually liked them in anything. They were always too bland in flavor to garner my interest.
But I knew they packed a punch in terms of health benefits. That’s why I decided to try a different way to have them — enter the strawberry cucumber smoothie.
Stay tuned for my strawberry cucumber smoothie recipe and the wonderful health benefits of this refreshing concoction.
Why Make a Strawberry and Cucumber Smoothie
We live in a busy world where health takes a backseat to work, family obligations, passion projects, and friends.
Smoothies are the best way to nourish your body without any fuss and 2 hours of prep.
This strawberry cucumber smoothie takes 5 minutes to make; it has the hydrating goodness of cucumber and strawberry; it’s yummy and will make you feel a thousand bucks!
Why wouldn’t you make it?
Strawberry Cucumber Smoothie Benefits
I started Kale and Sage not just to share recipes but to educate myself and my readers on why we put the things we do in our bodies.
That’s why each of my smoothie and juice recipes has a huge section on the benefits of each particular drink.
And here are the exceptional benefits that this strawberry cucumber smoothie will bring to your body:
- It’s immensely hydrating: Both strawberries and cucumbers have a high water content, making this smoothie a fantastic way to stay hydrated. Strawberries are 91% water, and cucumbers are 96%.
- It’s an antioxidant powerhouse: Strawberries are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C. And cucumbers contain antioxidants like flavonoids and tannins, which have anti-cancer benefits.
- It’s great for the immune system: Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C, which is vital in strengthening our immune system. Plus, cucumbers have nutrients like vitamin K, which also supports immune function.
- It supports weight management: A strawberry cucumber smoothie is low in calories and high in fiber, making it an ideal choice for those looking to lose weight. The fiber content helps digestion and keeps you feeling full.
- It gives you glowy skin: Strawberries and cucumbers are one of the best combinations for skin health. The vitamin C in strawberries supports collagen production, which contributes to glowy, radiant skin. Similarly, cucumbers hydrate the skin and reduce puffiness with their high water content.
Ingredients for a Strawberry Cucumber Smoothie
Besides strawberries and cucumber, you’ll need the following ingredients to make this smoothie:
- Ginger: Ginger is one of my favorite ingredients to add to smoothies because it adds a unique zesty flavor. Plus, it has anti-inflammatory antioxidants and makes digestion easier.
- Mint: Mint adds a refreshing element to the smoothie and is a digestive aid. Plus, it’s got antioxidants like rosmarinic acid and flavonoids. I also love how mint has a calming and cooling effect on my mind (no joke).
- Coconut water: I prefer coconut water for this smoothie rather than milk because I think it complements the strawberry and cucumber more. It also “lightens” the smoothie and gives it an almost “mocktail vibe.” Coconut water also has electrolytes, which increases the hydration aspect of the smoothie.
- Or your milk of choice: If you want a thicker smoothie or just don’t have coconut water, you can always make it with milk. I love using oat milk in smoothies, but you can also use almond milk. Adding the milk will make the smoothie more filling.
How to Make a Strawberry Cucumber Smoothie
If you want the printable recipe card, go to the end of the article.
Here’s how to make the most refreshing and delicious strawberry and cucumber smoothie:
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup fresh strawberries
- 1 small cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon honey (adjust to taste)
- A few fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup coconut water or milk of your choice
Steps to Prepare
- Wash the strawberries and remove the stems.
- Peel the cucumber and slice it into small pieces.
- Combine the strawberries, cucumber slices, grated ginger, honey, mint leaves, and coconut water or milk in your blender.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
- Taste the smoothie and adjust the sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
- Pour into a glass, garnish with a mint leaf, and serve chilled.
Tips to Enhance the Taste
- Add chia seeds or some Greek yogurt to your blender to add protein.
- Increase the nutritional value by adding a handful of spinach or kale to the smoothie.
- Try different herbs and spices like basil or cinnamon to add a unique twist.
- Taste the smoothie before you add more honey. The strawberries do a good job of making the smoothie sweet.
Strawberry Cucumber Smoothie Variations
Below are a few ways to subtly customize your strawberry and cucumber smoothie or make it a completely different one!
- Strawberry Cucumber Smoothie with Banana: If you like a thick, creamy smoothie, add a banana with some Greek yogurt or almond milk to your blender.
- Strawberry Cucumber Smoothie with Pineapple/Mango: Adding some frozen pineapple or mango is a great way to bring a tropical twist to this smoothie!
- Strawberry Cucumber Green Smoothie: Make it a green smoothie by adding kale or spinach. Check out my Energizing Spinach Cucumber Smoothie Recipe.
- Berry Cucumber Smoothie: Instead of only using strawberries, add other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries to the smoothie. Make this smoothie with coconut water instead of milk for a pleasant, refreshing taste.
Strawberry Cucumber Smoothie FAQs
Are Cucumbers Good in Smoothies?
Absolutely! Cucumbers add a refreshing taste and make a smoothie more hydrating. Plus, they have so many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to give your body a bigger energy boost.
Can You Eat Cucumbers and Strawberries Together?
Cucumbers and strawberries complement each other wonderfully. They may seem like an unlikely pairing, but the mild, crisp taste of cucumbers balances out the juiciness of the strawberries.
They both also have a high water content, making them incredibly hydrating and refreshing to have together.
Is a Strawberry Cucumber Smoothie Good for Weight Loss?
A strawberry and cucumber smoothie is an excellent choice for weight loss due to its low calories and high fiber content. The fiber aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness, thereby controlling your appetite.
For more weight loss smoothies, read my other article: 10 Tastiest Kale Smoothies for Weight Loss (Under 500 Calories)
How Do I Store a Strawberry Cucumber Smoothie?
You can store leftover strawberry cucumber smoothie in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, the taste and texture may change slightly. Make sure you stir the smoothie nicely before drinking it.
Final Thoughts
The strawberry cucumber smoothie is a blend of flavors and a treasure trove of health benefits.
Add it to your repertoire of weekly smoothie recipes!
Super Simple Strawberry Cucumber Smoothie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh strawberries
- 1 small cucumber peeled and sliced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp honey
- A few fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup coconut water or milk of your choice
Instructions
- Wash the strawberries and remove the stems.
- Peel the cucumber and slice it into small pieces.
- Combine the strawberries, cucumber slices, grated ginger, honey, mint leaves, and coconut water or milk in your blender.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
- Taste the smoothie and adjust the sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
- Pour into a glass, garnish with a mint leaf, and serve chilled.
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