Homemade Berry Banana Smoothie

Homemade Berry Banana Smoothie

This recipe makes a vibrant, creamy, and delicious smoothie, perfect for a quick breakfast or a healthy snack. The Vitamix 5300 is great for achieving a super smooth consistency.

Yields: 1 large serving Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• Frozen Mixed Berries: 1 cup (e.g., a mix of blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries as seen in the image, or whatever you prefer)
• Frozen Strawberries: 1/2 cup (additional to the mixed berries, or adjust based on your preference for strawberry flavor)
• Banana: 1 medium, ripe (can be fresh or frozen for a thicker, colder smoothie)
• Liquid: 1/2 to 1 cup (start with 1/2 cup and add more as needed for desired consistency)
  • Suggestions:
    • Water
    • Milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk)
    • Coconut water
    • Orange juice (for a sweeter, tangier smoothie)
• Optional Add-ins (for extra nutrition or flavor):
  • Protein Powder: 1 scoop (vanilla or unflavored works well)
  • Chia Seeds or Flax Seeds: 1 tablespoon (for fiber and omega-3s)
  • Spinach or Kale: 1/2 cup (fresh, for an undetectable veggie boost)
  • Greek Yogurt: 1/4 cup (for extra creaminess and protein)
  • Sweetener: 1 teaspoon (honey, maple syrup, or a few dates, if your fruit isn’t sweet enough)
  • Nut Butter: 1 tablespoon (almond butter, peanut butter, etc., for healthy fats and flavor)

Equipment:

• Vitamix 5300 Blender (or any high-speed blender)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Drinking glass

Instructions:

1. Load the Blender: Following the “liquid first, then soft, then hard/frozen” rule for optimal blending (or the specific order your Vitamix manual suggests, though the image shows solids first for a travel cup blend-to-go scenario):
   • Pour your chosen liquid into the blender container.
   • Add the banana (fresh or frozen).
   • Add any optional add-ins like protein powder, chia seeds, spinach, or yogurt.
   • Finally, add the frozen strawberries and frozen mixed berries on top.
2. Secure the Lid: Place the lid securely on the blender container.
3. Blend:
   • Start your Vitamix 5300 on its lowest speed setting.
   • Gradually increase the speed to high.
   • Use the tamper tool (if necessary) to push ingredients down towards the blades, ensuring everything is thoroughly blended and there are no air pockets.
   • Continue blending for 30-60 seconds, or until the smoothie is completely smooth and creamy, with no visible chunks of fruit.
4. Adjust Consistency: If the smoothie is too thick, add more liquid, a tablespoon at a time, and blend again until desired consistency is reached. If it’s too thin, add a few more frozen berries or a couple of ice cubes and blend again.
5. Serve: Pour the prepared smoothie into your favorite glass and enjoy immediately!

Tips for the Best Smoothie:

• Use Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and a creamy texture. If using frozen bananas, peel and slice them before freezing.
• Frozen Fruit is Key: Using frozen fruit eliminates the need for ice (which can water down the flavor) and creates a thick, cold smoothie.
• Don’t Overblend: Blend only until smooth to avoid warming up the smoothie and to maintain its nutrients.
• Customize: This recipe is a fantastic base! Feel free to experiment with different fruits, liquids, and add-ins to find your perfect combination.