Cherry Banana Almond Smoothie

Cherry Banana Almond Smoothie

This smoothie is packed with flavor and nutrients, offering a good source of vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats. The cherries provide a tart counterpoint to the sweet banana, while the almonds add a creamy texture and nutty flavor.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries (if using frozen, you might need a splash more liquid)
• 1 ripe banana, peeled and sliced (frozen banana works great for a thicker, colder smoothie)
• 1/4 cup raw almonds (soaked overnight for an even creamier smoothie, but not necessary)
• 1 cup almond milk (unsweetened, or your preferred milk like dairy milk, soy milk, or oat milk)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, enhances flavor)
• 1/2 – 1 tablespoon honey, maple syrup, or other sweetener (optional, adjust to your sweetness preference and the sweetness of your cherries/banana)
• A few ice cubes (optional, if you want it colder and thicker, especially if using fresh fruit)

Equipment:

• High-speed blender

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: Add all the ingredients (cherries, banana, almonds, almond milk, vanilla extract, sweetener, and ice cubes if using) into your blender.
2. Blend: Secure the lid and blend on high speed until completely smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more almond milk (1-2 tablespoons at a time) and blend again until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can add a few more frozen cherries or a few more ice cubes and re-blend.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the smoothie and adjust sweetness if needed. You can add more honey/maple syrup if you prefer it sweeter.
4. Serve: Pour the smoothie into a tall glass and enjoy immediately.

Tips and Variations:

• For a boost of protein: Add 1 scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder.
• For extra healthy fats: Add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds (they will also help thicken the smoothie).
• For a richer flavor: Toast the almonds lightly before adding them to the blender.
• Make it chocolatey: Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder or cacao powder for a chocolate cherry almond smoothie.
• Greens power: Add a handful of spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost. You won’t taste it much!
• Meal prep tip: You can pre-portion the cherries, banana slices, and almonds into freezer-safe bags. When you’re ready to make a smoothie, just dump the contents of the bag into the blender with the liquid ingredients and blend!

Enjoy your delicious and healthy cherry banana almond smoothie!