Blackberry Strawberry Banana Smoothie Recipe

This smoothie recipe is my go-to because it perfectly balances fresh, vibrant flavors with a creamy texture that feels indulgent yet is totally guilt-free. I love starting my day with this mix because it feels like a refreshing, energizing hug in a glass, getting me totally ready to seize the day!

A refreshing Blackberry Strawberry Banana Smoothie is how I love to commence the day. It is an antioxidant-rich, nutritious powerhouse, thanks to the blackberries and strawberries.

The base of the smoothie—a ripe banana and 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt—makes this drink creamy and protein-packed. By adding a splash of almond milk, it stays light and easy to consume.

Honey adds a touch of sweetness; without it, the drink’s flavor would fall short.

Ingredients

Blackberries are rich in fiber and vitamins and have a tangy sweetness.

Strawberries: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.

Naturally very sweet.

Bananas: Excellent source of potassium; they add a natural creaminess and sweetness.

Greek Yogurt: Full of protein, gives creaminess and a slight tang.

Almond Milk: Few calories; has a slightly nutty taste.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled
• 1 ripe banana
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup ice cubes

Instructions

1. Wash the blackberries and strawberries well in cold water.

2. Remove the green tops from the strawberries.

3. Remove the skin from the ripe banana, and then cut the banana into smaller sections to make it easier to combine with the other ingredients.

4. Put the blackberries, strawberries, and banana chunks into a blender.

5. Put the plain Greek yogurt into the blender.

6. Add almond milk to the mixture.

7. If you want extra sweetness, add honey or maple syrup.

8. To amplify the flavor, add the vanilla extract.

9. Add ice cubes to the blend so that it becomes a really cold smoothie.

10. On high speed, blend the mixture until it reaches smooth and creamy consistency. Serve by pouring into glasses and consuming right away.

Equipment Needed

1. Kitchen sink (for washing the fruits)
2. Cutting board
3. Knife
4. Blender
5. Measuring cups
6. Measuring spoons
7. Glasses (for serving)

FAQ

• Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh ones?Indeed, frozen blackberries and strawberries are suitable for use. When you use frozen berries, there’s no need to add ice cubes, and that means you end up with a creamier smoothie.
• What can I substitute for Greek yogurt if I’m lactose intolerant?A yogurt alternative made without dairy, for example a yogurt made from almond milk or coconut milk, can be used to make the smoothie lactose-free.
• Is it necessary to add honey or maple syrup?The optional sweetener is just that—optional. If your fruit is ripe and sweet, you might not need any additional sweetness. Adjust to your preference. If you taste it and think it could use a little something, then by all means, add it in. Sweeten it to your liking.
• How can I make this smoothie vegan?Replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and the honey with maple syrup.
• What if I don’t have almond milk?Any milk you have on hand can be used, such as cow’s milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Each will slightly alter the flavor and creaminess.
• Will the banana flavor be overpowering?Creaminess and sweetness, of the natural variety, come from the banana. It also possesses a flavor that complements the berries very nicely and doesn’t take over the smoothie.

Substitutions and Variations

For fresh blackberries, use 1 cup frozen blackberries for a thicker consistency.
In the absence of strawberries, use 1 cup of raspberries for a tangy variation.
Substitute half an avocado for the ripe banana to achieve a creamy texture.
Substitute coconut yogurt for the Greek yogurt to make the recipe dairy-free.
Replace almond milk with oat milk or soy milk as alternative choices.

Pro Tips

1. For an extra creamy smoothie, freeze the banana beforehand. This also helps make the smoothie thicker and gives it a colder, more refreshing texture.

2. To enhance the fruit flavors, macerate the strawberries and blackberries with a teaspoon of sugar or honey for about 15 minutes before blending. This will intensify their natural sweetness and juices.

3. Add a handful of spinach or kale to the blender for an extra boost of nutrients. The flavor will be mild and the vibrant color will give the smoothie a nutritional lift without significantly altering the taste.

4. For added texture and a nutrient boost, consider including a tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds. These can provide extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

5. Adjust the thickness of the smoothie by regulating the amount of almond milk. Use more for a thinner consistency, or reduce it and add more ice if you prefer a thicker smoothie. You can also use a mix of milk and coconut water for a lighter option.