Classic Banana Smoothie

Classic Banana Smoothie

This simple and creamy banana smoothie is a perfect quick breakfast, snack, or post-workout refuel. It’s naturally sweet and can be customized with various add-ins.

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 medium ripe banana, frozen (This is key for a thick, cold smoothie without adding ice which can dilute the flavor. If you don’t have frozen, a ripe fresh banana will work, but you might want to add a few ice cubes.)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk of choice (dairy milk, almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk all work well)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but enhances the flavor)
• 1-2 teaspoons honey, maple syrup, or other sweetener (optional, depending on the sweetness of your banana and your preference)

Optional Add-ins for Extra Nutrition/Flavor:

• Protein boost: 1 scoop protein powder (vanilla or unflavored works best)
• Healthy fats: 1 tablespoon nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter), 1 tablespoon chia seeds, 1 tablespoon flax seeds, or 1/4 ripe avocado
• Greens: 1/2 cup spinach or kale (you won’t taste it much, promise!)
• Fiber boost: 1/4 cup rolled oats
• Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg
• Extra fruit: A handful of berries (fresh or frozen), 1/4 cup pineapple chunks

Equipment:

• Blender

Instructions:

1. Prepare your banana: If you’re using a fresh banana, peel it and break it into a few pieces. If you’re using a frozen banana, simply break it into a few chunks if it’s not already.
2. Add ingredients to blender: Place the frozen banana pieces into your blender. Pour in the milk of your choice. Add the vanilla extract (if using) and your preferred sweetener (if using). If adding any of the optional add-ins, now is the time to throw them in.
3. Blend until smooth: Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula a couple of times to ensure everything is well incorporated. If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust: Taste the smoothie and adjust sweetness if necessary. If you want it colder, add a few ice cubes and blend again.
5. Serve immediately: Pour the smoothie into a glass. For presentation, you can slice a fresh banana and float the slices on top, as seen in the image. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Banana Smoothie:

• Frozen Bananas are Key: For the best texture and coldness without diluting flavor, always try to use frozen bananas. Peel ripe bananas, break them into pieces, and freeze them in an airtight bag or container.
• Start with less liquid: It’s easier to add more liquid than to make a smoothie thicker. Start with the recommended amount and add more if needed.
• Ripe Bananas are Sweeter: The riper your banana (the more brown spots it has), the sweeter your smoothie will be, and you might not need to add any additional sweetener.
• Clean your blender right away: This makes cleanup much easier!

Enjoy your homemade banana smoothie!