Creamy Mango Avocado Banana Smoothie

Creamy Mango Avocado Banana Smoothie

This smoothie is rich, creamy, and packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and fiber. It’s a great way to start your day or enjoy as a refreshing snack.

Yields: 1 large serving or 2 small servings Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado: Halved, pitted, and flesh scooped out. Choose one that yields slightly to gentle pressure.
• 1 ripe banana: Peeled. For a colder, thicker smoothie, use a frozen banana.
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup ripe mango chunks: Fresh or frozen. If using fresh, make sure it’s sweet and fragrant.
• 1/2 cup milk: (Dairy or non-dairy like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk). Adjust for desired consistency.
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional): Adds extra creaminess and protein. Can be omitted for a lighter version or if you prefer a dairy-free smoothie.
• 1-2 tablespoons honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar (optional, to taste): Only if your fruits aren’t sweet enough.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Enhances the flavors.
• 4-6 ice cubes (optional): If you prefer a colder, thicker smoothie and are not using frozen fruit.
• For Garnish (as seen in image):
  • Fresh mango chunks
  • A slice of banana

Equipment:

• Blender

Instructions:

1. Prepare your fruits:

   • Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into your blender.
   • Peel the banana and break it into a few pieces before adding it to the blender.
   • Measure out your mango chunks and add them to the blender.

2. Add liquids and optional ingredients:

   • Pour in the milk. Start with 1/2 cup and add more if needed to reach your desired consistency.
   • Add the Greek yogurt (if using).
   • Add sweetener (if using, start with 1 tablespoon and adjust later).
   • Add vanilla extract (if using).

3. Blend:

   • Secure the lid on your blender.
   • Start blending on low speed, then gradually increase to high speed.
   • Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk (1-2 tablespoons at a time) and blend again. If it’s not cold enough or you prefer a thicker smoothie, add ice cubes and blend until crushed and incorporated.

4. Taste and adjust:

   • Pour a small amount into a spoon and taste.
   • If it’s not sweet enough, add more sweetener and blend briefly.
   • If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk.

5. Serve:

   • Pour the smoothie into a tall glass.
   • Garnish with fresh mango chunks and a banana slice on the rim, just like in the picture.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Smoothie:

• Use ripe fruits: Ripe avocado, banana, and mango will give you the best flavor and creamiest texture.
• Frozen fruit for thickness: Using frozen banana and/or frozen mango will result in a colder, thicker smoothie without needing as much ice, which can dilute the flavor.
• Adjust consistency: Don’t be afraid to add a little more milk or ice to achieve your preferred thickness.
• Sweetness to taste: The sweetness will depend on the ripeness of your fruits. Taste before adding extra sweetener.
• Boost nutrients: You can add a handful of spinach (you won’t taste it!), chia seeds, or flax seeds for extra nutrients.