Fuel your day

Looking for a healthy, delicious way to kickstart your morning or recharge midday? Leslie Rohland, owner of the Juice Hive in Bluffton, has shared her recipe for a creamy, nutrient-packed acai bowl that’s as beautiful as it is good for you. This recipe isn’t just tasty—it’s loaded with ingredients that each bring unique health benefits to the table.

The star of the show, acai berries, are rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy skin. They’re also high in fiber, aiding digestion, and contain healthy fats that support brain and heart health.

The banana, frozen for a creamy texture, is packed with potassium, which helps maintain proper muscle function and hydration. It also provides natural sweetness and quick energy from its easily digestible carbohydrates.

Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that’s low in calories but rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports healthy skin and eyes. Combined with Greek yogurt, which is high in protein and probiotics, it promotes gut health and keeps you feeling full longer.

Almond butter adds a boost of protein, healthy monounsaturated fats, and magnesium, which supports energy production and muscle recovery.

Toppings like fresh berries contribute additional antioxidants, vitamins, and a burst of natural sweetness, while granola provides satisfying crunch and fiber to keep you energized. Finally, a drizzle of local honey adds a natural sweetener with antibacterial properties and helps soothe sore throats or seasonal allergies.

Leslie’s acai bowl is more than a treat for your taste buds—it’s a complete package of nourishment, energy, and vitality. Try this recipe at home or stop by the Juice Hive in Bluffton to explore fresher, health-forward options. Your body will thank you!

Ingredients

• packet unsweetened frozen acai berry blend
• 1 banana, frozen
• 1/4 almond milk
• 2 T. Greek yogurt
• 2 T. almond butter
• Fresh berries of your choice
• Granola of your choice
• Local honey

Instructions

1. In a high-powered blender, combine the acai berry packet, frozen banana, almond milk, yogurt and almond butter.

2. Blend on low until mixture is completely smooth. You may need to add more dairy-free milk until your smoothie blends smoothly. Try not to add more than necessary, or your bowl won’t be as thick and creamy.

3. Feel free to frequently to scrape down the sides and push potential unblended ingredients down, to blend more efficiently.

4. Pour into a bowl and top with granola and honey drizzle.

5. Enjoy immediately!

Leslie Rohland is the owner of The Cottage Café and Bakery, The Juice Hive and the Bluffton Pasta Shoppe. Leslie was named one of the South Carolina Chef Ambassadors for 2024.