Banana Strawberry Green Smoothie
Yields: 1-2 servings Prep time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana: (fresh or frozen for a colder, thicker smoothie)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries: (hulled)
- 1 cup packed fresh spinach (or other mild leafy green like baby kale)
- 1/2 a small avocado
- 1/2 to 1 cup liquid: (e.g., water, milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk), orange juice, or coconut water)
- Optional sweeteners to taste: (e.g., 1-2 dates, a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a few drops of stevia)
- Optional add-ins: (e.g., 1 tablespoon chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds, a scoop of protein powder, a spoonful of Greek yogurt for creaminess and protein)
- Optional ice: (if using fresh fruit and want it colder)
Instructions:
- Prepare your ingredients: Wash strawberries and remove hulls. Wash spinach. Peel banana. Cut avocado in half and remove the pit.
- Combine in blender: Add the liquid to your blender first (this helps with blending). Then add the spinach, banana, strawberries, and avocado.
- Blend: Start blending on low speed, gradually increasing to high speed until the smoothie is completely smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a little more liquid until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the smoothie and add any optional sweeteners if desired. Blend again briefly to combine.
- Serve: Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately!
Tips & Variations:
- For a colder and thicker smoothie: Use frozen banana slices and/or frozen strawberries. You might need less ice.
- Adjust sweetness: The ripeness of your banana and strawberries will affect the sweetness. Add more or less sweetener to your preference.
- Different liquids: Experiment with different liquids to change the flavor profile.
- Boost nutrition: Add a tablespoon of chia seeds, flax seeds, or hemp seeds for extra fiber and omega-3s.
- Make it a meal: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a more substantial smoothie.
Enjoy your homemade smoothie!
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