Tropical Strawberry Mango Smoothie

Tropical Strawberry Mango Smoothie

This vibrant and refreshing smoothie is packed with the sweet flavors of ripe mango and juicy strawberries, making it perfect for a healthy breakfast, a quick snack, or a tropical treat.

Yields: 1 large serving or 2 smaller servings Prep time: 5-7 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (about 160g) frozen mango chunks: Using frozen fruit helps make the smoothie thick and cold without needing ice, which can dilute the flavor.
• 1 cup (about 150g) frozen strawberries: Similar to mango, frozen strawberries are ideal.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) liquid:
  • Option 1 (For a richer, creamier smoothie): Milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk). Coconut milk will enhance the tropical flavor.
  • Option 2 (For a lighter, more refreshing smoothie): Water or fruit juice (e.g., orange juice, pineapple juice, or apple juice). Pineapple juice pairs exceptionally well with mango and strawberry.
• Optional Sweetener (to taste):
  • 1-2 tablespoons honey, maple syrup, agave nectar, or a few dates (pitted) if your fruit isn’t very sweet.
• Optional Add-ins (for extra nutrition or flavor):
  • 1/2 a ripe banana (fresh or frozen) for extra creaminess and sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup (25g) plain Greek yogurt for protein and tang.
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds for fiber and omega-3s.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for warmth and depth of flavor.
  • A small handful of spinach (you won’t taste it, but it adds nutrients!).

Equipment:

• Blender (a high-speed blender works best for frozen fruit)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving glass

Instructions:

1. Gather your ingredients: Make sure all your frozen fruit is ready.
2. Add liquids first: Pour your chosen liquid (milk, water, or juice) into the blender. This helps the blades move more easily and prevents the fruit from getting stuck.
3. Add frozen fruit: Add the frozen mango chunks and frozen strawberries to the blender.
4. Add optional ingredients: If using any optional sweeteners (honey, maple syrup, dates), banana, yogurt, seeds, or vanilla extract, add them now.
5. Blend: Secure the lid on your blender. Start blending on a low speed, then gradually increase to a higher speed. You may need to use the tamper that comes with your blender (if you have one) or stop the blender and scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure everything is blended smoothly.
   • Tip: If the smoothie is too thick, add a tablespoon or two more of liquid at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a few more frozen fruit chunks or a few ice cubes and blend again.
6. Check consistency and sweetness: Once smooth and creamy, taste the smoothie. Add more sweetener if desired and blend for a few more seconds.
7. Serve immediately: Pour the smoothie into a tall glass.
8. Garnish (optional): Garnish with a few fresh sliced strawberries, diced mango, or a sprig of mint, as seen in the image. Add a straw and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Smoothie:

• Use ripe fruit: Even if frozen, starting with ripe fruit will give you the best flavor.
• Freeze your own fruit: If fresh mangoes and strawberries are in season, buy them, chop them, and freeze them yourself. This can be more economical and ensures good quality.
• Adjust to your liking: Feel free to play with the ratios of mango to strawberry depending on your preference.
• Clean your blender right away: It’s much easier to clean a blender immediately after use before anything dries and sticks.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Tropical Strawberry Mango Smoothie!