Banana Nectarine Smoothie Recipe – Easy Yogurt & Honey Blend

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Banana Nectarine Smoothie Recipe – Easy Yogurt & Honey Blend

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, healthy, and delicious breakfast or snack. This Banana Nectarine Smoothie is my go-to when I need something refreshing and satisfying in a flash. I first whipped this up on a particularly hot summer day, and it’s been a family favourite ever since! It’s seriously so easy, you won’t believe it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This smoothie is a winner for so many reasons. It’s ready in under 5 minutes – perfect for busy mornings. The combination of banana and nectarine is just heavenly, and the yogurt adds a lovely creaminess. Plus, it’s packed with goodness to keep you going! Honestly, it feels like a treat, but it’s actually really good for you.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful smoothie:

• 1 large banana, chopped (about 120g)
• 1 nectarine, chopped (about 150g)
• ½ cup yogurt (120ml)
• ¼ cup cold water (60ml)
• 2 tbsp honey (30ml)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (5ml)
• 1 heaped tbsp wheat germ (optional – about 10g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Banana Varieties & Ripeness

I prefer using Cavendish bananas for this smoothie, as they have a lovely sweetness. But honestly, any ripe banana will work! The riper the banana, the sweeter your smoothie will be. Those spotty bananas that everyone avoids? Perfect for smoothies!

Nectarine Seasonality & Selection

Nectarines are best when they’re in season – usually from May to September. Look for nectarines that are slightly soft to the touch and have a lovely fragrant aroma. If they’re a little firm, leave them at room temperature for a day or two to ripen.

Yogurt Types – Greek vs. Regular

You can use either Greek yogurt or regular yogurt in this recipe. Greek yogurt will give you a thicker, tangier smoothie, and it’s packed with protein. Regular yogurt will be a bit lighter and sweeter. I often use Greek yogurt for an extra boost!

Wheat Germ Benefits & Substitutions

Wheat germ is a fantastic source of nutrients, adding a subtle nutty flavour and a bit of texture. But if you don’t have it, don’t worry! You can easily substitute it with a tablespoon of flax seeds, chia seeds, or even a handful of oats.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get blending!

1. First, chop your banana and nectarine into smaller pieces. This helps the blender work its magic more easily.
2. Now, add everything – the banana, nectarine, yogurt, water, honey, vanilla extract, and wheat germ (if using) – into your blender.
3. Blend it all up until it’s beautifully smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash more water. If it’s too thin, add a few more pieces of frozen banana or nectarine.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned over the years…

• For an extra cold smoothie, chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring.
• Don’t over-blend! You want a smooth consistency, but over-blending can make it a bit foamy.
• Taste as you go! Adjust the honey to your liking.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Adaptation

To make this smoothie vegan, simply swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar, and use a plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt. My friend, Priya, swears by using coconut yogurt – it adds a lovely tropical flavour!

Spice Level Adjustment (with Cinnamon or Nutmeg)

A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a lovely warmth to this smoothie. Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to your taste.

Adding Greens (Spinach or Kale)

Sneak in some extra nutrients by adding a handful of spinach or kale. You won’t even taste it, I promise! Start with a small handful and work your way up.

For a Thicker Smoothie

Use frozen banana and nectarine slices. This creates a super thick and creamy texture, almost like a milkshake!

Serving Suggestions

This smoothie is perfect on its own for a quick breakfast or snack. But you can also get creative! Try topping it with a sprinkle of granola, some chopped nuts, or a few fresh berries. It’s also lovely with a side of whole-wheat toast.

Storage Instructions

This smoothie is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be aware that it may separate, so give it a good stir before drinking.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Can I use frozen banana and nectarine for this smoothie?

Absolutely! Frozen fruit will give you a thicker, colder smoothie. It’s a great way to use up ripe fruit before it goes bad.

What if I don’t have wheat germ?

No problem! As mentioned earlier, you can substitute it with flax seeds, chia seeds, or oats.

Can this smoothie be made ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the fruit and measure out the other ingredients, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to blend.

Is this smoothie suitable for a quick breakfast?

Definitely! It takes just minutes to make and is packed with nutrients to keep you energised all morning.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the smoothie?

Adjust the amount of honey to your liking. You can also add a few dates for natural sweetness.

What are the health benefits of this smoothie?

This smoothie is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Bananas are rich in potassium, nectarines are a good source of vitamin C, and yogurt provides protein and calcium. It’s a delicious and nutritious way to start your day!