- Peel and chop bananas.
- Wash strawberries, remove the stems, and chop.
- Combine bananas, strawberries, milk, vanilla, and honey or sugar in a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Adjust consistency with more milk if needed, then pour into glasses and serve chilled.
- Calories:317 kcal25%
- Energy:1326 kJ22%
- Protein:9 g28%
- Carbohydrates:54 mg40%
- Sugar:39 mg8%
- Salt:107 g25%
- Fat:8 g20%
Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh
Strawberry Banana Smoothie Recipe – Easy Summer Drink
Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, refreshing drink, especially when the weather heats up. This Strawberry Banana Smoothie is my go-to – it’s seriously the easiest thing to make, and it always hits the spot. I first whipped this up on a particularly scorching summer afternoon, and it’s been a family favourite ever since! It’s perfect for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or just a little treat. Let’s get blending!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This smoothie is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly fast – ready in under 10 minutes! Plus, it only requires a handful of ingredients you probably already have. It’s naturally sweet, creamy, and packed with flavour. Honestly, what’s not to love? It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some fruit, too, which is always a bonus.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this dreamy smoothie:
- 2 Bananas
- 15-20 Strawberries
- 2 cups Cold Milk (about 475ml)
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract
- 3-4 tsp Honey or Sugar (to taste)
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.
Banana Varieties & Ripeness
I prefer using slightly ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavour. Those with a few brown spots are perfect! You can even freeze overripe bananas – they add an amazing creamy texture.
Strawberry Selection – Fresh vs. Frozen
Fresh strawberries are wonderful when in season, but frozen strawberries work brilliantly too! They actually help make the smoothie extra thick and cold. If using frozen, you might need a little extra milk to get things moving.
Milk Options – Dairy & Non-Dairy
Feel free to use whatever milk you like best. Cow’s milk gives a classic creamy texture, but almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk are fantastic vegan alternatives. Coconut milk adds a lovely tropical twist!
Sweetener Choices – Honey vs. Sugar & Alternatives
I usually reach for honey because I love the flavour it adds, but granulated sugar works just as well. You could also try maple syrup or even a date or two for a more natural sweetness. Adjust the amount to your liking – everyone has a different sweet tooth!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s make some magic!
- First, peel and chop those bananas into smaller pieces. This helps your blender out a bit.
- Next, wash your strawberries, remove the green stalks, and chop them up too.
- Now, add the bananas, strawberries, cold milk, vanilla extract, and honey (or sugar) to your blender.
- Blend everything together until it’s beautifully smooth and creamy. Don’t be afraid to stop and scrape down the sides if needed.
- If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Pour into glasses and enjoy immediately! It’s best served chilled.
Expert Tips
Here are a few tricks I’ve learned over the years to make this smoothie even better:
Achieving the Perfect Smoothie Consistency
Want a thicker smoothie? Use frozen fruit or add a few ice cubes. For a thinner smoothie, simply add more milk.
Preventing Banana Browning
If you’re not drinking it right away, a squeeze of lemon juice can help prevent the banana from turning brown.
Blending Techniques for Smoothness
Start blending on low speed and gradually increase to high. This helps everything combine properly and prevents splatters!
Variations
This recipe is super versatile – feel free to get creative!
Vegan Strawberry Banana Smoothie
Simply use your favourite plant-based milk (almond, oat, soy, or coconut) and ensure your sweetener is vegan-friendly (maple syrup is a great option).
Gluten-Free Strawberry Banana Smoothie
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check that your vanilla extract doesn’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients.
Spice Level Adjustment (Optional – e.g., a pinch of ginger)
My friend loves adding a tiny pinch of ground ginger for a little zing. It’s surprisingly delicious!
Summer Cooling Adaptations – Adding Ice
On a really hot day, throw in a handful of ice cubes for an extra frosty treat.
Serving Suggestions
This smoothie is delicious on its own, but you can also get fancy! Try topping it with:
- A sprinkle of granola
- A few sliced strawberries
- A drizzle of honey
- A sprig of mint
Storage Instructions
While this smoothie is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It might separate a little, so just give it a good stir before drinking.
FAQs
Got questions? I’ve got answers!
Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?
You can, but the texture might change slightly. It’s best to drink it within 24 hours.
What if I don’t have fresh strawberries?
Frozen strawberries work perfectly! They’ll actually make the smoothie thicker.
How can I make this smoothie thicker?
Use frozen fruit, add a few ice cubes, or use less milk.
Is this smoothie healthy for breakfast?
Absolutely! It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s a great way to start your day.
Can I add protein powder to this smoothie?
Definitely! A scoop of your favourite protein powder will give it an extra boost.
What other fruits can I add to this smoothie?
Mango, pineapple, blueberries, and raspberries all pair beautifully with strawberry and banana.