Banana Pineapple Mango Smoothie

Banana Pineapple Mango Smoothie

This vibrant and creamy smoothie is packed with tropical flavors and nutrients, making it a perfect healthy breakfast, snack, or post-workout refuel.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana, peeled and sliced (about 1/2 to 1 cup)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh pineapple (or frozen pineapple chunks)
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mango (or frozen mango chunks)
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt for extra protein, or regular yogurt)
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (adjust for desired consistency)
• Optional additions:
  • 1/2 cup ice cubes (if using fresh fruit and want it colder/thicker)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for extra sweetness, if desired)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds (for added fiber and omega-3s)
  • A scoop of protein powder (for a protein boost)
  • A handful of spinach (you won’t taste it much, but it adds nutrients!)

Equipment:

• Blender

Instructions:

1. Prepare your ingredients: Ensure your banana, pineapple, and mango are peeled and chopped into smaller pieces to facilitate blending. If using frozen fruit, no need to chop as finely.
2. Add to blender: Place all the prepared ingredients into your blender. Start with the liquid (almond milk) first, then add the yogurt, followed by the fruits. If using ice, add it last.
3. Blend until smooth: Secure the lid on your blender and start blending on a low speed, gradually increasing to high. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no fruit chunks remaining. If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can add a few more frozen fruit pieces or a handful of ice and re-blend.
4. Taste and adjust: Taste the smoothie and adjust for sweetness if needed by adding a little honey or maple syrup.
5. Serve immediately: Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy right away!

Tips for the Best Smoothie:

• Use ripe fruit: Ripe bananas, pineapples, and mangoes will provide the best flavor and natural sweetness.
• Frozen fruit is key for thickness: Using frozen banana, pineapple, or mango will make your smoothie colder and thicker without needing to add as much ice, which can sometimes dilute the flavor. If you don’t have frozen fruit, you can always add a handful of ice cubes.
• Adjust liquid for consistency: Start with less almond milk and add more as needed until you reach your preferred smoothie thickness.
• Don’t overblend: Blend just until smooth to maintain nutrients and prevent the smoothie from becoming too warm.
• Get creative with additions: Smoothies are very versatile! Feel free to experiment with other healthy additions like a handful of oats, a spoonful of nut butter, or even a dash of spices like cinnamon.