Banana Strawberry Apple Smoothie Recipe

I love this smoothie recipe because it’s like starting my day with a burst of fruity goodness and feels like a treat that’s actually good for me. Plus, it’s super versatile and easily adapts to whatever I have in the fridge, making mornings deliciously effortless!

I adore beginning my day with a cool and revitalizing Banana Strawberry Apple Smoothie. Mixing with a banana, fresh strawberries, and a freshly picked apple makes for a smoothie with natural sweetness and an ample portion of fiber.

Almond milk and Greek yogurt add some creaminess and, with the nut butter, make for a smoothie with a good portion of protein and also a good amount of calcium. What a way to start my day!

Ingredients

Bananas rank high in potassium and are naturally sweet; they are excellent snacks for energy.

Strawberries possess a wealth of vitamin C and antioxidants; they contribute a tangy sweetness.

Apple: Delivers fiber and vitamin C; contributes a crunchy, sweet accent.

Almond Milk: A source of vitamin E.

Very low in calories; not from dairy.

Greek Yogurt: Contains a significant amount of protein and probiotics, while providing a delightful creaminess and tang.

Honey and maple syrup are natural sweeteners that elevate flavor with their delicate nuances.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances taste with a warm, aromatic essence.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
• 1 medium apple, cored and sliced
• 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess and protein)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for flavor)
• Ice cubes (optional, for a thicker smoothie)

Instructions

1. Remove the banana’s peel and place the banana in the blender.

2. Rinse the strawberries, take off the green parts, and place them in the blender.

3. Core the apple, slice it, and add the slices to the blender.

4. Add the almond milk to the blender, combining it with the fruit.

5. Add honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness if you desire.

6. To increase the creaminess and protein content, the Greek yogurt goes in the blender.

7. If using, add the vanilla extract for a suggestion of flavor.

8. If you would rather have a thick smoothie, include several ice cubes.

9. Mix all the components at high speed until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture.

10. Adjust the sweetness or thickness of the drink by adding additional sweetener or milk if needed. Serve immediately.

Equipment Needed

1. Blender
2. Knife
3. Cutting board
4. Measuring cups
5. Measuring spoons
6. Spoon

FAQ

• Can I use a dairy substitute instead of almond milk?Certainly! Any milk can be used, such as:
  – soy milk
  – oat milk
  – coconut milk
  – regular cow’s milk
• Do I need to add honey or maple syrup?Honey or maple syrup can be added, but are not necessary. If you want a sweeter smoothie, though, feel free to add some, or you can count on the natural sweetness of the fruits.
• Is the yogurt necessary?Adding Greek yogurt is optional. It adds creaminess and protein to the smoothie, but if you would rather have a smoothie with no dairy, just skip it.
• Can I use another type of fruit?Certainly! You can substitute or add other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches according to your taste preference.
• How do I make the smoothie thicker?If you want a thicker consistency, add ice cubes, or use frozen fruits instead of fresh ones.
• Is the vanilla extract necessary?The optional vanilla extract adds extra flavor. You can leave it out if you want the pure taste of the fruits to shine through.
• Can I prepare the smoothie ahead of time?The smoothie is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Cut fruits can be stored in the refrigerator until they’re ready to be blended.

Substitutions and Variations

1 perfectly ripe banana – Replace with a 1/2 cup of ripe mango or papaya for a tropical flavor change.
1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries – Substitute with blueberries or raspberries for a different berry flavor.
1 medium apple – Use a medium pear for a different flavor and feel.
1 cup almond milk – Substitute with oat milk, soy milk, or regular cow’s milk, depending on your dietary preference.
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup – Substitute with agave nectar or a few dates for natural sweetness.

Pro Tips

1. Freeze the Banana For an extra creamy and cold smoothie, slice and freeze the banana beforehand. This also eliminates the need for ice cubes, keeping the flavor concentrated without dilution.

2. Balance the Sweetness If your fruits are very ripe and sweet, you may not need to add honey or maple syrup. Taste the smoothie before adding any extra sweetener to adjust according to your preference.

3. Enhance the Flavor Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to give the smoothie an additional layer of flavor that complements the fruit and vanilla.

4. Nutrient Boost Consider adding a handful of spinach or kale to the smoothie. It will add a vibrant green color and additional nutrients without significantly altering the taste.

5. Blending Order Start by blending the almond milk with the spinach or kale (if using), then add the rest of the ingredients. This ensures the greens are fully incorporated and your smoothie is smooth.