Bananas taste great alone, but they taste even better in a banana smoothie. Banana smoothies make delicious beverages, snacks and even meal replacements for weight loss. You can make them using exclusively bananas or add fresh fruit, dairy, nuts and seeds. Whether you’re trying to lose pounds or just need to quench your thirst, learn how to make a banana smoothie at home.
What is a Banana Smoothie Made of?
To make a banana smoothie, you need a few ripe bananas which will be blended and sometimes strained. You can add any fruit juice, milk or yoghurt to increase volume and enhance flavor. Some cooks use coconut water or almond milk for more nutrients. Toss in some fresh apple, pineapple, berries and other fruit pieces for a chunkier smoothie. You can also learn how to make a banana smoothie with nuts, peanut butter and almond butter.
Health Benefits of a Banana Smoothie
Bananas are fiber-dense, which is good news for your digestive system. You can increase the fiber content by adding flax seeds and other whole grains for a stomach-friendly, filling meal replacement. Bananas also contain an electrolyte called potassium, which balances fluids in the body and improves muscle condition.
In addition to dietary fiber and electrolytes, banana smoothies have vitamins B and C, which help in breaking down fat and proteins. These vitamins also help to build a barrier against disease-causing bacteria and free radicals. This means improved immunity against viruses, cancers and degenerative conditions.
How to Make a Banana Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 large ripe banana
- 1/2 cup low-fat milk
- 1 cup ice cubes
- 1 cup plain yoghurt
- 1 tablespoon sugar or natural honey
Instructions
- Peel the banana, making sure you remove the strands as well. Add it to a food processor or blender in bite-sized chunks.
- Add the milk, ice cubes, yogurt, and sweetener.
- Blend and serve.
Nutrition
How to Make a Banana Smoothie with Fruit
Fruity banana smoothies are excellent energy boosters. You can blend it until chunky or very smooth. You will need:
1 large ripe banana
½ cup fruit juice (preferably freshly juiced)
1 cup plain yoghurt
½ cup blueberries
2 tablespoons almond butter (or peanut)
2 tablespoons flax seeds
Step 1:
Add banana chunks, fruit juice and yoghurt. Blend these ingredients first for 1 minute.
Step 2:
Add the rest of the ingredients and blend until the banana smoothie achieves the desired consistency. Serve.
How to Make a Banana Smoothie Tips and Tricks
Banana smoothies with a few ingredients can be blended all at the same time. However, if your ingredient list includes more than 5 ingredients, it is best to blend in stages. If you’re making a green banana smoothie with leafy vegetables, blend these and the liquids first.
Knowing how to make a banana smoothie can be useful when you need a quick, tasty meal or drink. Play with other ingredients, but be careful not to add too many. Add nuts in moderation as they can be high in fats.
Here are some smoothie recipes that you also should try.
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