Low Carb Avocado Coconut Ginger Smoothie

This smoothie blends one ripe avocado with a cup of unsweetened coconut milk, fresh ginger and lime juice. It takes 5 minutes, needs no cooking and makes 2 servings. The avocado gives it body, the coconut milk makes it taste tropical, and the ginger and lime keep it from tasting heavy.

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Each serving has about 6 grams of carbohydrates and 5 grams of fiber, which is why it fits a keto or low-carb plan.

What Goes in the Blender

• Avocado (1 ripe, peeled and pitted): the base of the smoothie. The riper it is, the smoother the result. Look for one that gives slightly under gentle pressure.
• Unsweetened coconut milk (1 cup): keeps the drink dairy-free. Chilling it first makes the smoothie colder.
• Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): the sharp note that cuts through the avocado and coconut.
• Lime juice (1 tablespoon): adds acidity so the drink tastes bright.
• Erythritol (1 tablespoon) or another keto sweetener: start here and add more at the end if you want it sweeter.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon) and a pinch of salt: small amounts that round out the flavor.
• Ice cubes (1/2 cup): added last so the blender works through the soft ingredients first.

Blending It Smooth

Put the avocado, coconut milk, ginger, lime juice, sweetener, vanilla and salt into the blender first, then add the ice. Blend on high until the drink is smooth and creamy. Stop to scrape down the sides once or twice if bits of avocado stick. Taste, add more sweetener if needed, and pour into glasses. Drink it right away for the best flavor.

A slice of lime or a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top makes a simple garnish.

Ways to Change It

• Thicker and creamier: use frozen avocado instead of fresh, or swap the coconut milk for coconut cream.
• Greens: add a handful of spinach or kale. The flavor barely changes and the carbs stay low.
• Berries: a few frozen raspberries or strawberries add color and flavor.
• Nut butter: a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter makes the drink richer.
• Other sweeteners: monk fruit or stevia work in place of erythritol. Each tastes a little different, so adjust to your liking.
• Spice: a pinch of cinnamon, turmeric or cayenne changes the character of the drink.
• Protein: stir in a scoop of low-carb protein powder to make it more filling.

What to Serve Alongside

If you want something to eat with the smoothie, keep it low-carb as well. Hard-boiled eggs, avocado deviled eggs, cheese crisps and celery sticks with cream cheese all work. Almond flour pancakes or chia seed pudding suit a breakfast. For another drink, try herbal tea such as ginger or peppermint, or sparkling water with lime.

Nutrition per Serving

One serving, which is half the batch, has about 250 calories, 23 grams of fat (18 grams saturated), 6 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of fiber, 1 gram of sugar, 3 grams of protein and 50 milligrams of sodium. These are estimates.

FAQ

Can I use frozen avocado?

Yes. Frozen avocado gives a thicker, creamier smoothie and saves you waiting for a fresh one to ripen.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours and shake it well before drinking. You can also freeze a double batch in ice cube trays and blend the cubes later.

Can I use a different milk?

Almond milk or cashew milk both work. Choose an unsweetened one so the smoothie stays low in carbs.

Can it replace a meal?

On its own it has only 3 grams of protein per serving. Adding a scoop of low-carb protein powder will help it keep you full longer.

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Written and edited by The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team

The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team writes and edits the recipes on Foodie Yummy: classic American potluck salads, holiday sides and easy comfort food, with a few low-carb options. Every recipe lists exact quantities, numbered steps and a printable recipe card, plus notes on swaps, storage and make-ahead timing. Spot a problem with a recipe? Tell us through the contact page and we will correct it. About us