This is the perfect time of year for a blackcurrant & kale smoothie. Spring is on the horizon but I need something packed full of vitamin C to boost my immune system and to get me through the last of the winter months. Blackcurrants are one of my favourite fruits, they’re rich in vitamin C and have a great balance of tart and sweet. If you can’t get hold of frozen or fresh blackcurrants replace with frozen strawberries.

This blackcurrant and kale smoothie has a balance of fats, fibre and protein. I’m using camelina seeds which are high in protein, a good source of Omega 3 oils and rich in antioxidants such as vitamin E. You can replace these with flax or linseed’s. The kale provides fibre, antioxidants and is also high in vitamin C. The rich deep purple from the blackcurrants means the green kale is hidden in this smoothie.

Blood and blush oranges are in season and provide a lovely floral sweetness for this smoothie. I have added elderberry syrup for an extra vitamin C boost, this is optional.

I have used a small amount of yogurt, a dairy free alternative will work just as well.

Serves 2

2 handfuls of kale leaves (roughly 6 cavalo nero leaves, taken off the stalk)

2 blood oranges, juiced

1 tbsp camelina seeds, soaked in 2 tbsp of water

1 cup of coconut water

2 tbsp yoghurt

Method for Blackcurrant Vitamin C Boosting:

1. Soak the camelina or flaxseeds in 2 tbsp of water and leave whilst you prepare the rest of the ingredients. If using ground flax seed you won’t need to do this.
2. Place all the ingredients in a vitamix or blender and blitz until smooth. Serve immediately.