Strawberry Banana Smoothie Recipe – Quick & Easy Indian Summer Drink

Last Updated on 5 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Strawberry Banana Smoothie Recipe – Quick & Easy Indian Summer Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, refreshing drink, especially when the Indian summer heat kicks in. This Strawberry Banana Smoothie is my go-to – it’s unbelievably easy, tastes like a treat, and is perfect for a quick breakfast, afternoon snack, or even a light dessert. I first made this when my little niece came to visit, and it’s been a family favourite ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honestly, what’s not to love? This smoothie is ready in under 10 minutes, requires just a handful of ingredients, and is naturally sweet and creamy. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some fruit, and it’s totally customizable to your liking. Plus, it’s a brilliant way to cool down on a hot day – a little slice of summer in a glass!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this deliciousness:

• 5-6 strawberries
• 1 banana
• 1/4 cup yogurt (about 60ml)
• A handful of ice cubes
• 1/4 cup milk (about 60ml)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

Strawberries: Varieties & Selection

I prefer using sweet, ripe strawberries for this smoothie. Look for berries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant. You can use any variety – local Indian strawberries are amazing when in season, but California berries work great too!

Bananas: Ripeness for Optimal Sweetness

The riper the banana, the sweeter the smoothie! I like to use bananas with a few brown spots. They blend beautifully and add a lovely natural sweetness. If your bananas aren’t super ripe, you might want to add a tiny bit of honey or maple syrup.

Yogurt: Choosing the Right Type (Dahi Options)

This is where you can really play around! I usually use plain yogurt (dahi) – it adds a lovely tang. You can use any type you like:

• Full-fat yogurt: For a super creamy smoothie.
• Low-fat yogurt: A lighter option.
• Greek yogurt: Adds extra protein and thickness.
• Mishti Doi: For a touch of traditional Indian sweetness!

Milk: Dairy vs. Plant-Based Alternatives

Feel free to use whatever milk you prefer. Dairy milk works perfectly, but almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk are all fantastic vegan options. Coconut milk will give it a lovely tropical twist!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get blending! It’s seriously simple.

1. First, add your strawberries, banana, yogurt, ice cubes, and milk to a blender. Don’t worry about being too precise – a little more or less of something won’t ruin it!
2. Now, blend everything on high speed until it’s smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes.
3. Finally, pour your beautiful smoothie into a tall glass and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Chill your glass: Pop your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring – it keeps the smoothie colder for longer.
• Layer the ingredients: Add liquids first, then soft fruits, then ice. This helps the blender work more efficiently.
• Don’t overblend: Overblending can make the smoothie watery. Blend just until smooth.

Variations

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

Vegan Strawberry Banana Smoothie

Simply swap the yogurt for a plant-based yogurt (coconut or almond yogurt work well) and use plant-based milk. Easy peasy! My friend, Priya, swears by using cashew yogurt for extra creaminess.

Gluten-Free Strawberry Banana Smoothie

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check that your yogurt and milk are also gluten-free if you have a sensitivity.

Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Ginger or Cardamom)

For a little Indian flair, add a tiny piece of grated ginger (about 1/2 inch) or a pinch of cardamom powder. It adds a lovely warmth and complexity. My grandmother always added a hint of cardamom to her fruit drinks!

Festival Adaptations (Summer Solstice/Harvest Celebrations)

During summer festivals like Baisakhi or Teej, you can garnish this smoothie with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios or a few mint leaves for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

This smoothie is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even more special:

• Top with granola: Adds a lovely crunch.
• Drizzle with honey: For extra sweetness.
• Add a sprinkle of chia seeds: For added nutrients.
• Serve with a side of fruit: Strawberries and banana slices are perfect!

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. It might separate a little, so just give it a good stir before drinking.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Can I use frozen strawberries and bananas?

Absolutely! Frozen fruit will make the smoothie even thicker and colder. No need to add as much ice.

What if my smoothie is too thick/thin?

If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes or a small piece of frozen banana.

Can I add protein powder to this smoothie?

Yes, definitely! A scoop of your favourite protein powder will make it a more filling and nutritious meal.

Is this smoothie suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s a great option for kids! You might want to cut the banana into smaller pieces before blending to make it easier to drink.

How can I make this smoothie ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time by chopping the fruit and measuring out the yogurt and milk. Store them in a container in the fridge, and then blend everything when you’re ready to drink it.