Banana Almond Honey Smoothie(with optional Avocado)

Banana Almond Honey Smoothie(with optional Avocado)

This recipe makes one serving.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, fresh or frozen (frozen banana makes for a colder, thicker smoothie)
• 1/2 cup milk of choice (dairy milk, almond milk, soy milk, oat milk all work well)
• 2 tablespoons raw almonds (whole or slivered)
• 1-2 teaspoons honey, or to taste
• 1/4 cup ice cubes (if using fresh banana)
• 1/2 an avocado (optional, for extra creaminess and healthy fats)
• 1/2 teaspoon chia seeds (for topping, as seen in the image, optional)
• A few whole almonds for garnish (optional)
• Banana slices for garnish (optional)

Equipment:

• Blender

Instructions:

1. Prepare your ingredients:

   • If using a fresh banana, peel and break it into a few pieces. If using a frozen banana, simply break it into pieces if very large.
   • If you want to use the optional avocado, cut it in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh.

2. Combine in blender:

   • Add the banana (fresh or frozen) to your blender.
   • Pour in the milk of your choice.
   • Add the 2 tablespoons of raw almonds.
   • Drizzle in 1-2 teaspoons of honey. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more later if you prefer it sweeter.
   • If using, add the 1/2 an avocado.
   • Add the ice cubes if you are using a fresh banana and want a cold smoothie. If using a frozen banana, you might not need as much ice, or any at all, depending on your desired consistency.

3. Blend until smooth:

   • Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high speed until all ingredients are completely smooth and creamy. There should be no visible lumps of banana, avocado, or almonds.
   • If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more milk and blend again.
   • If it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes or a small handful of frozen banana pieces and blend again.

4. Taste and adjust:

   • Pour a small amount into a spoon and taste.
   • If you’d like it sweeter, add more honey and blend briefly.
   • If you want a stronger almond flavor, you could add 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract (use sparingly as it’s potent!).

5. Serve and Garnish:

   • Pour the smoothie into a glass.
   • As seen in the image, you can garnish with:
     • A sprinkle of chia seeds.
     • A few whole almonds.
     • A few slices of fresh banana on top.
     • A drizzle of honey (if desired).
     • And don’t forget the ice cubes if you want it extra cold and visually appealing!

Tips and Variations:

• For a protein boost: Add 1 scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder.
• For added fiber and nutrients: Add a handful of spinach (you won’t taste it!).
• Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a lovely warmth.
• Nut butter alternative: If you don’t have raw almonds, you can use 1 tablespoon of almond butter instead.
• Sweetness control: Adjust the amount of honey to your preference. Maple syrup or dates can also be used as sweeteners.
• Freezing bananas: For future smoothies, peel ripe bananas, break them into pieces, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. This helps prevent food waste and makes for a creamier smoothie.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious homemade smoothie!