When you're in the mood for something sweet, refreshing, and packed with nutrients, the Cherry Banana Smoothie is a fantastic choice! This smoothie is not only vibrant and delicious but also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or a post-workout treat, this smoothie has you covered.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or your favorite yogurt)
  • 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
  • 1/2 cup ice (optional, especially if using fresh cherries)

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds (for extra fiber and omega-3s)
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (for a protein boost)
  • 1 tbsp almond butter (for healthy fats and a creamy texture)
  • A handful of spinach or kale (for a nutrient-packed smoothie)
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (for extra flavor)

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Fruit: If you're using fresh cherries, pit them first. Frozen cherries work great and make the smoothie thicker and colder. Peel the banana and break it into chunks.

  2. Add to Blender: In a high-speed blender, combine the cherries, banana, Greek yogurt, and almond milk.

  3. Sweeten (Optional): Add honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter smoothie.

  4. Blend: Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. If you’re using fresh cherries, add ice to make the smoothie colder and thicker, then blend again until the ice is crushed.

  5. Adjust Consistency: If the smoothie is too thick, add more almond milk until you achieve the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add more yogurt or a handful of ice cubes.

  6. Serve: Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy immediately!

Tips:

  • Make it Vegan: Replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative, such as almond or coconut yogurt, and use maple syrup instead of honey.
  • Frozen Fruit Hack: Use frozen cherries and bananas for a thicker smoothie without the need for ice.
  • Nutrient Boost: Adding greens like spinach or kale won’t change the taste much but will significantly enhance the nutritional content.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Cherries are rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help improve sleep quality.
  • Bananas are a great source of potassium, essential for heart health and muscle function, and provide natural sweetness.
  • Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics, supporting gut health and muscle recovery.

This Cherry Banana Smoothie is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it a perfect choice for any time of day. The combination of cherries and bananas creates a refreshing and vibrant drink that's simple to make and easy to customize!


Cherry Banana Smoothie Recipe