- Add frozen banana, berries, flaxseed powder, and chia seeds to a blender.
- Pour in honey and milk (or a mix of milk and yogurt for creaminess).
- Blend on high speed until smooth and frothy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Pour into a tall glass and serve immediately.
- Calories:300 kcal25%
- Energy:1255 kJ22%
- Protein:8 g28%
- Carbohydrates:60 mg40%
- Sugar:35 mg8%
- Salt:50 g25%
- Fat:5 g20%
Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh
Berry Banana Smoothie Recipe – Flax & Chia Seed Power Boost
Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, mornings can be… hectic. Between getting ready and tackling the day, sometimes a quick, healthy breakfast feels impossible. That’s where this Berry Banana Smoothie comes in! It’s my go-to when I need something nourishing and delicious, and it takes literally 5 minutes to make. Plus, the flax and chia seeds give it a lovely little power boost to keep you going.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This smoothie isn’t just quick; it’s packed with goodness. Berries are bursting with antioxidants, bananas provide natural sweetness and potassium, and flax & chia seeds add healthy fats and fiber. It’s a fantastic way to start your day, refuel after a workout, or even enjoy as a healthy afternoon snack. Honestly, it just feels good to drink!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful smoothie:
- 1 cup frozen berries (strawberry and blueberry)
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 tablespoon flax seeds powder (about 7 grams)
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds (about 5 grams)
- 1 tablespoon honey (about 15ml)
- 1 cup milk (or vegan alternative) (about 240ml)
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.
Frozen Berries: Types & Fresh vs. Frozen
I love using a mix of strawberries and blueberries, but feel free to experiment! Raspberries, blackberries, or even mixed berry blends work beautifully. Frozen berries are super convenient and often more affordable than fresh, especially out of season. Plus, they give the smoothie that lovely thick texture.
Frozen Banana: Ripeness & Freezing Tips
This is key for a creamy smoothie! Use bananas that are nicely ripe – the ones with brown spots are perfect. Peel them, slice them into chunks, and freeze them for at least 2 hours. I usually keep a stash in a freezer bag, ready to go.
Flax Seed Powder: Benefits & Storage
Flax seeds are amazing for you, full of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. I prefer using flax seed powder because it’s easier for your body to absorb the nutrients. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh.
Chia Seeds: Nutritional Value & Soaking (Optional)
Chia seeds are another nutritional powerhouse! They’re a great source of fiber and protein. You don’t need to soak them before adding them to the smoothie, but soaking them for about 10-15 minutes in a little water can make them even easier to digest.
Honey: Alternatives & Sweetness Levels
Honey adds a lovely natural sweetness. If you prefer, you can substitute it with maple syrup, agave nectar, or even a few dates. Adjust the amount to your liking – I usually start with a tablespoon and taste as I go.
Milk: Dairy vs. Plant-Based Options
Any milk works! I often use regular dairy milk, but almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk are all fantastic vegan alternatives. They each add a slightly different flavor, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get blending!
- First, add your frozen banana, berries, flax seed powder, and chia seeds to your blender.
- Next, pour in the honey and milk (or your chosen milk alternative). If you like a really creamy smoothie, you can mix in a little yogurt too!
- Now, blend everything on high speed until it’s smooth and frothy. You might need to stop and scrape down the sides a couple of times.
- Give it a taste! Adjust the sweetness with a little more honey if needed.
- Finally, pour your beautiful smoothie into a tall glass and enjoy immediately.
Expert Tips
Want to take your smoothie game to the next level? Here are a few of my favorite tricks:
Achieving the Perfect Smoothie Consistency
Too thick? Add a splash more milk. Too thin? Add a few more frozen berries or a small piece of frozen banana. It’s all about finding the balance that you love.
Blending Techniques for Smoothness
Start on a low speed and gradually increase to high. This helps prevent the blender from getting stuck. A high-powered blender will give you the smoothest results, but even a basic blender can do the trick!
Preventing Oxidation & Browning
Smoothies can sometimes turn a little brown after blending. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can help prevent this.
Variations
This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ideas to spice things up:
Vegan Berry Banana Smoothie
Simply use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Gluten-Free Berry Banana Smoothie
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check that your milk alternative and any added ingredients are also gluten-free.
Adjusting Spice Level (Optional – e.g., adding ginger)
A tiny piece of fresh ginger (about ½ inch) adds a lovely zing! My friend loves adding a pinch of cinnamon too.
Summer Cooling Smoothie Adaptation
Add a few mint leaves for an extra refreshing twist during hot summer months.
Post-Workout Recovery Smoothie Boost
Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder for an extra boost of protein to help your muscles recover.
Serving Suggestions
I usually drink this smoothie straight from a glass, but it’s also lovely poured into a bowl and topped with granola, fresh fruit, and a drizzle of honey. It’s a great way to make it feel a little more special!
Storage Instructions
This smoothie is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge 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?
Not really. It’s best to blend it right before you drink it for the best texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have frozen fruit?
You can use fresh fruit, but you’ll need to add a handful of ice cubes to get that thick, frosty texture.
Can I use a different type of sweetener?
Absolutely! Maple syrup, agave nectar, or dates are all great alternatives to honey.
How can I make this smoothie thicker?
Add more frozen fruit, a tablespoon of yogurt, or a handful of ice cubes.
Is this smoothie suitable for children?
Yes, it is! Just make sure to adjust the sweetness level to their liking.
What are the benefits of flax and chia seeds in this smoothie?
Flax and chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, which are all great for your health! They can help improve digestion, boost energy levels, and support heart health.
Enjoy your smoothie! Let me know in the comments what variations you try. I love hearing from you all!
Neha Deshmukh
Neha holds a B.A. in History with a focus on Indian and world history, including ancient, medieval, and modern periods. At RecipesOfIndia.org — the world’s largest database of Indian recipes — she combines her love for food and history by exploring how India’s past has shaped its culinary traditions.