Classic Strawberry Banana Smoothie

Classic Strawberry Banana Smoothie

This creamy and naturally sweet smoothie is a perfect quick breakfast, snack, or post-workout refuel.

Yields: 1 large serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen strawberries (or fresh strawberries + 1/2 cup ice)
• 1 ripe banana, fresh or frozen (using frozen banana makes it creamier and colder)
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup liquid (milk of choice, orange juice, or water)
  • Milk options: Dairy milk (whole, 2%, skim), almond milk, soy milk, oat milk
  • Juice options: Orange juice (adds a tangy sweetness)
• Optional additions (for extra nutrition or flavor):
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds (for fiber and omega-3s)
  • 1 tablespoon nut butter (almond butter, peanut butter for protein and healthy fats)
  • 1/2 scoop protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
  • A handful of spinach (you won’t taste it, but it adds nutrients!)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Sweetener to taste (honey, maple syrup, or a date if you like it sweeter)

Equipment:

• Blender

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: If using fresh strawberries and banana, you might want to slice the banana into smaller pieces to help with blending. If using frozen fruit, no need to pre-prep much.
2. Add to Blender: Place all the ingredients into your blender in the following order for optimal blending:
   • Liquid (1/2 cup first, you can add more later if needed)
   • Banana
   • Strawberries
   • Any optional additions (seeds, nut butter, protein powder, spinach, etc.)
3. Blend: Secure the lid on your blender. Start blending on a low speed, then gradually increase to high. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add more liquid (1-2 tablespoons at a time) and continue blending until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the smoothie. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit of honey, maple syrup, or a pitted date and blend again.
5. Pour and Garnish: Pour the smoothie into a tall glass. As shown in the image, you can garnish with fresh strawberry slices and banana slices on top for an appealing presentation.
6. Serve Immediately: Smoothies are best enjoyed fresh.

Tips for Success:

• Frozen Fruit is Key: Using frozen strawberries and especially a frozen banana creates a much thicker, colder, and creamier smoothie without the need for excessive ice, which can dilute the flavor.
• Adjust Liquid: Start with less liquid and add more as needed. The amount of liquid depends on your desired consistency and the power of your blender.
• Customize: Feel free to experiment with other fruits (like blueberries or raspberries), different liquids, and various add-ins to create your perfect smoothie!
• Sweetness: Ripe bananas are naturally sweet. Taste before adding extra sweeteners.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Strawberry Banana Smoothie!