Strawberry Banana Smoothie Milk

This strawberry banana smoothie without yogurt has been my go-to refreshment during hot summer days and busy mornings alike. The natural sweetness from the fruit creates a perfectly balanced drink that's thick and creamy without needing any yogurt at all.

I first created this recipe when I ran out of yogurt one morning but still wanted a satisfying smoothie. My kids now request this version specifically, preferring its pure fruit flavor over my previous yogurt based recipes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups frozen strawberries: These provide the perfect icy texture and beautiful pink color. Look for fully ripe berries with deep red color for maximum sweetness.
• 1 large overripe banana: The secret ingredient that creates creaminess without yogurt. Choose one with brown spots for natural sweetness.
• 1/2 cup milk or milk alternative: Creates the perfect pourable consistency. Any variety works well including almond, oat or coconut milk.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds subtle warmth and depth of flavor. Use pure extract rather than imitation for best results.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Blender:

Set up your high powered blender and ensure it's on a stable surface. This simple step prevents accidents and ensures smooth blending.

Add Ingredients Strategically:

Place half the frozen strawberries first along with the banana, milk and vanilla. This prevents motor strain and helps create a smooth base before adding remaining ingredients.

Blend Until Smooth:

Start on low speed then gradually increase to high. Blend for approximately 30 seconds or until you achieve a completely smooth consistency with no visible fruit chunks.

Adjust Consistency If Needed:

If too thick, add a splash more milk. If too thin, add a few more frozen strawberries. The perfect consistency should be thick enough to drink through a straw but not so thick it requires a spoon.

Serve Immediately:

Pour into glasses and enjoy right away for the freshest flavor and optimal temperature. The smoothie naturally begins to separate if left sitting too long.

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The frozen banana is truly the magic ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its amazing thickening power years ago when making ice cream alternatives, and it works perfectly here to create that creamy texture without any dairy products at all.

Storage Tips

While best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftover smoothie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The natural separation that occurs is normal. Simply give it a good shake or quick reblend before drinking. For longer storage, pour leftover smoothie into ice cube trays and freeze. These frozen cubes make excellent additions to future smoothies or can be partially thawed for a slushy treat.

Nutritional Benefits

This smoothie packs an impressive nutritional punch despite its simplicity. Strawberries provide vitamin C and antioxidants while bananas contribute potassium and vitamin B6. The milk adds calcium and protein to create a well-rounded snack or light meal. With only 124 calories per serving, this smoothie satisfies sweet cravings while supporting overall health goals. The 4 grams of fiber help keep you feeling full longer than many other sweet treats.

Customization Options

One of the beauties of this recipe is its flexibility. For extra protein, add a tablespoon of nut butter or a scoop of your favorite protein powder. To increase the nutrient density, blend in a handful of spinach or kale. The sweetness of the fruits masks any vegetable flavor, making this an excellent way to incorporate more greens. For tropical variations, substitute mangoes for strawberries or add a quarter cup of pineapple chunks. The base recipe serves as a perfect canvas for endless creative combinations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh strawberries. However, freezing them beforehand will help achieve the thicker texture traditionally associated with smoothies.

→ What can I use as a milk alternative?

Almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk are excellent substitutes. Choose one that complements the flavors for the best result.

→ How do I increase the sweetness naturally?

Add an overripe banana or include 1-2 pitted dates. These options enhance sweetness without adding processed sugar.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

It's best enjoyed immediately after blending, but you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir well before drinking.

→ What are some optional add-ins?

You can add chia seeds, flaxseeds, protein powder, or a scoop of peanut butter for extra nutrition and flavor.