Strawberry Banana Swirl Smoothie

Strawberry Banana Swirl Smoothie

This vibrant and delicious smoothie combines the sweetness of strawberries with the creaminess of bananas, creating a beautiful swirled effect that’s as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast, a refreshing snack, or even a light dessert.

Yields: 1-2 servings Prep time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Strawberry Layer:

• 1 cup (about 150g) frozen strawberries
• 1/2 ripe banana (fresh or frozen, for extra creaminess)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk)
• 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste, depending on strawberry sweetness)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Banana Layer:

• 1 ripe banana (fresh or frozen, frozen will yield a thicker smoothie)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk)
• 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh banana slices
• Fresh strawberries
• A fun straw

Equipment:

• Blender (high-speed recommended for best results)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Drinking glasses

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Strawberry Layer: * In your blender, combine the frozen strawberries, 1/2 ripe banana, 1/2 cup milk, optional honey/maple syrup, and optional vanilla extract. * Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon more milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency. * Pour the strawberry smoothie into a separate bowl or container and set aside. Give your blender a quick rinse (no need for a deep clean yet).

2. Prepare the Banana Layer: * In the same blender, combine the 1 ripe banana, 1/2 cup milk, optional honey/maple syrup, and optional vanilla extract. * Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy. Again, adjust consistency with a little more milk if needed.

3. Create the Swirl Effect: * Take your serving glass(es). * Carefully spoon alternating dollops of the strawberry smoothie and the banana smoothie into the glass. Don’t worry about being perfect; the randomness creates the swirl. * Once both smoothies are in the glass, take a spoon or a knife and gently swirl through the layers once or twice to create the marble effect. Avoid over-mixing, or you’ll lose the distinct layers.

4. Garnish and Serve: * Garnish with fresh banana slices and/or a whole strawberry on the rim or floating on top, as shown in the image. * Add a straw and serve immediately.

Tips for Success:

• Use Frozen Fruit: Using frozen strawberries and at least one frozen banana (for the banana layer) is key to a thick, cold smoothie without needing to add ice, which can dilute the flavor. If your fruit isn’t frozen, you might need to add a handful of ice cubes to each layer.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your smoothies before combining and adjust the sweetness to your liking. The ripeness of your bananas and strawberries will affect how much sweetener you need.
• Consistency is Key: Aim for a thick, pourable consistency for both layers. If one layer is significantly thicker than the other, it might be harder to swirl.
• Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free and vegan smoothie, simply use your preferred non-dairy milk (almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk work wonderfully).
• Add-ins for Nutrition:
  • Protein Boost: Add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder to either layer.
  • Healthy Fats: A tablespoon of chia seeds, flax seeds, or almond butter can be blended into either layer for added nutrients and creaminess.
  • Greens: A handful of spinach can be blended into the banana layer (you won’t taste it!) for an extra boost of vitamins.
• Make Ahead (Limited): Smoothies are best enjoyed immediately. However, if you need to make them a little in advance, store the separate layers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to an hour. Swirl just before serving.

Enjoy your beautiful and delicious Strawberry Banana Swirl Smoothie!