Tropical Blue Spirulina Smoothie Bowl

If you’re a fan of thick and creamy smoothie bowls like my Amazing Blueberry Smoothie Bowl or Protein-Packed Cherry Smoothie Bowl, prepare to fall in love with the only and only Blue Spirulina Smoothie Bowl. 

This bowl blends just 5 ingredients –Greek yogurt, vanilla-flavored protein powder, frozen mango, blue spirulina, and a splash of sweet pineapple juice for a luscious, tropical-flavored treat! Before we start blending, let’s talk about what gives this smoothie bowl it’s beautiful blue hue!

What is spirulina?

Spirulina is a blue-green algae with a history dating back to the Aztecs, who used it to boost endurance and treat various diseases. It’s an excellent source of plant-based protein called phycocyanin, as well as B vitamins, copper, magnesium, and iron. 

Phycocyanin is being studied for its potential brain-protecting, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer benefits. Even if the research doesn’t fully pan out, spirulina is still pretty cool. It makes a gorgeous, natural addition to meals without any synthetic food dyes. 

For recipes, I recommend using blue spirulina instead of the green variety, as it has a neutral taste and blends seamlessly in smoothies and smoothie bowls. You can also use it in baked goods, energy bites, sauces, and more for a boost of blue!

Why you’ll love this smoothie bowl

• Nutrient-packed powerhouse. Loaded with protein, vitamins, and minerals, it helps you stay energized and nourished.
• Supports fitness goals. The combination of protein and healthy fats helps repair muscles and keep you full longer.
• Delicious showstopper. Not only is this smoothie bowl a stunning blue color, but it’s also a tropical, refreshing treat!

Ingredients and toppings 

• Pineapple juice. Compared to a regular smoothie, smoothie bowls require significantly less liquid to create a thick, creamy consistency. I use pineapple juice to add a touch of naturally sweet, tropical flavor. I love using the new Dole light pineapple juice sweetened with stevia. Fresh is always great, too! Coconut water, almond milk (or your favorite non-dairy milk option) also work well here. 
• Greek yogurt. This boosts the protein, makes the smoothie bowl ultra-creamy, and provides probiotics to support gut health. I recommend full-fat Greek yogurt, but you can use low-fat or fat-free if preferred. For a dairy-free alternative, opt for coconut yogurt or any thick vegan yogurt.
• Vanilla protein powder. For even more protein, use a whey, casein, or plant-based protein powder. If your protein powder is unflavored, add a ¼ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract for flavor (you may also need to adjust the sweetness with a little stevia or honey).
• Spirulina powder. The magical ingredient that gives this smoothie bowl its stunning color! Remember, for the best-tasting blue smoothie bowl, you must use blue spirulina powder. It has a more neutral flavor, while the green kind has a somewhat fishy taste.  You can easily find it online or in health food stores.
• Frozen fruit. Using only frozen fruit and no ice prevents a watery consistency, creating a scoopable, almost frozen yogurt-like texture instead. I like using frozen bananas and mangoes for a great tropical flavor.

Topping ideas

One of the best parts of any smoothie bowl is the toppings! Here are some tasty ideas to mix and match for extra flavor, texture, and nutrition:

• Fresh or frozen fruit – For bursts of color, try acai berries, banana slices,  blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, kiwi, mango, dragon fruit, pineapple, or peaches.
• Nut butter – A creamy drizzle of almond, cashew, or peanut butter adds richness, healthy fats, and protein.
• Nuts & seeds – For crunch, top with nuts, such as chopped almonds, pecans, pistachios, or walnuts. Or try seeds like chia, hemp, flaxseeds, or raw pumpkin seeds.
• Sweet stuff – A little drizzle of sweetness never hurts! Some options include honey, maple syrup, date syrup, coconut nectar, or even melted dark chocolate! 😋 
• Textural toppings – Add crunch and chew on top with cacao nibs, coconut flakes, crushed freeze-dried fruit, granola, or toasted coconut chips.

How to make a spirulina bowl

Step 1: Layer ingredients. Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender in the order listed.

Step 2: Blend. Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase to high speed until the mixture is velvety smooth. Pause and scrape down the sides if needed to ensure everything is incorporated.

Step 3: Add toppings and serve. Pour into a bowl, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy!

Recipe tips and FAQs

• Always add the liquids to the blender first, followed by the yogurt and powders, and then the frozen fruit. This ensures a smooth blend without overworking the blender.
• Adjust the liquid as needed. Start with the recommended amount of pineapple juice (or your preferred liquid), then blend in a splash at a time only if necessary to achieve your desired consistency. 
• For a thick smoothie bowl that doesn’t melt too fast, try chilling your serving bowl in the freezer for 5-10 minutes before pouring in your smoothie.

Recipe FAQ

Storing and freezing

Storing: Smoothie bowls are best enjoyed fresh while they’re cold and creamy. If you need to store it, do so in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Stir before serving.

Freezing: To store the smoothie for longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container. Let it thaw slightly before stirring and serving.

More must-try blue foods and beverages

• Blue Lagoon Mocktail
• Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Lemonade
• Blueberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats
• High Protein Blue Chia Pudding

If you love this spirulina tropical smoothie bowl with Greek yogurt, I would be so grateful if you could leave a 5-star 🌟 rating in the recipe card below. I love reading your comments and feedback!

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