Almond, Banana, Avocado Smoothie with Honey

Almond, Banana, Avocado Smoothie with Honey

This smoothie is creamy, nutritious, and naturally sweet. The avocado adds a lovely richness and healthy fats, while the almonds provide a nutty flavor and protein. Honey brings a touch of sweetness, and chia seeds add extra fiber and omega-3s.

Yields: 1 large serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• For the Smoothie Base:
  • 1 ripe banana, preferably frozen (for a thicker, colder smoothie)
  • 1/2 ripe avocado
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or your preferred milk)
  • 1-2 tablespoons honey (adjust to your sweetness preference)
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, enhances flavor)
  • Pinch of cinnamon (optional, complements banana and honey)
• For the Toppings (as pictured):
  • 1/2 ripe banana, sliced into rounds
  • 5-7 whole almonds
  • 1 teaspoon chia seeds
  • 1 teaspoon slivered or chopped almonds (optional, for extra crunch)

Equipment:

• Blender
• Serving glass

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a blender, combine the frozen banana, avocado, almond milk, honey, and optional vanilla extract and cinnamon.
2. Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more almond milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can add a few ice cubes and blend again, or add a tablespoon of rolled oats (which would then lean towards an “oats banana smoothie” interpretation).
3. Pour into Glass: Pour the smoothie into your serving glass.
4. Add Toppings: Artfully arrange the sliced banana rounds on top of the smoothie. Sprinkle the whole almonds, chia seeds, and slivered/chopped almonds over the banana and smoothie.
5. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your nutritious and delicious smoothie right away!

Tips and Variations:

• For a thicker smoothie: Use a frozen banana. You can also add 1/4 cup of rolled oats (if you want to incorporate the “oats banana smoothie” aspect more directly) or a few ice cubes when blending.
• For a thinner smoothie: Add more almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
• Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder (vanilla or unflavored would work well) for an extra protein boost.
• Nut Butter: A tablespoon of almond butter or cashew butter can be added to the smoothie base for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
• Other Sweeteners: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives to honey.
• Spice it Up: A tiny pinch of nutmeg or cardamom could also be a nice addition.
• Greens Power: For an added nutritional boost, blend in a handful of spinach or kale. You won’t taste it, but it will slightly alter the color.
• Make Ahead: While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the smoothie base and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The toppings should be added just before serving.