Warm weather calls for refreshing sips, and this Dairy-Free Strawberry Smoothie Recipe delivers just that—a touch of summer’s endless days. A blend of mouthwatering strawberries and creamy bananas fulfills your childhood cravings for a sweet strawberry shake but in an incredibly delicious and healthy way.
If you love sweet drinks, you'll love Hibiscus Tea Strawberry Lemonade, Blueberry Lemonade, and Vegan Korean Strawberry Milk.
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Summers have always held a special place in my heart, filled with sun-soaked days and cherished family traditions. One of my favorite rituals involved packing up the kids— all nine in tow—and heading to the local strawberry farm. We'd spend hours in the fields, gathering crates upon crates of plump, juicy strawberries.
Back home, the real fun began as everyone old enough pitched in to prep the strawberries for freezing. We’d pack the entire freezer chest full of perfectly ripened strawberries. All year long, we'd dip into our stash of frozen strawberries to make various treats, but our favorite by far is this Strawberry Banana Smoothie. This easy smoothie became more than just a treat; it was our family’s way of winding down together, a pause that was the perfect end to any day.
This recipe is that very smoothie, refined a touch over the years but still steeped in the tradition and tastes of summer days. It’s creamy, dreamy, and perfectly balanced—and you’d never guess it’s dairy-free.
Make your smoothies stand out
This Strawberry Banana Smoothie isn’t just a treat—it’s a healthy treat that captures summer. With each sip, you're treating yourself to a burst of vitamins and a taste of sunshine. Perfect for breakfast, a post-workout refresh, or a nutritious end-the-evening snack. Learning how to make this smoothie is a great way to add wellness to your routine.
Boost your day with options
Here are a few ways you can enjoy it:
- Breakfast smoothie bowl: Pour it into a bowl over a little granola with unsweetened shredded coconut and a few whole strawberries for a filling and nutrient-dense breakfast.
- Post-workout refuel: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder, hemp, and/or flax seeds to replenish your energy.
- Frozen popsicles: Pour the mixture into popsicle molds for a frozen treat on a hot day.
Quick Freezing Guide
- Remove peels from ripe bananas.
- Cut into slices for convenience or freeze whole.
- Lay on a baking sheet, freeze until solid.
- Place in airtight freezer bags, remove air, and store for up to six months.
The good-for-you ingredients
- Milk: Choose any plant-based milk for a creamy texture and nutrients without dairy.
- Frozen bananas: Provides creaminess and natural sweetness, rich in potassium for heart health.
- Strawberries: Adds vibrant color and flavor, packed with vitamin C and antioxidants for immune support.
- Cashews: Offers a creamy texture and a touch of healthy fats and protein.
- Medjool dates or maple syrup: Sweetens naturally, with dates offering additional magnesium and nutrients.
- Hemp or flax seeds: A great source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber to support heart and digestive health.
- Vanilla extract: Adds flavor with its warm notes while offering calming effects and antioxidants.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, with benefits for blood sugar regulation and anti-inflammatory properties.
Add-ins or toppings
- Chia seeds: For a fiber boost and omega-3s.
- Protein powder: Make it a meal with a scoop of vanilla plant-based protein.
- Spinach: Sneak in some greens for extra nutrients without altering taste.
- Cacao nibs: Offer a rich, chocolatey crunch and antioxidants.
- Goji berries: Boost with antioxidants and a slight tangy flavor.
- Bee pollen: Adds a subtle sweetness and a boost of vitamins. Please note: Not vegan-friendly.
- Maca powder: Known for its energy-boosting and hormone-balancing properties. Add a teaspoon for a subtle butterscotch-like flavor.
- Shredded unsweetened coconut: Adds a tropical flavor and texture, plus a dose of healthy fats and fiber.
- Almond butter: For an extra nutty flavor and creaminess, add a tablespoon of almond butter. It complements the cashews and adds healthy fats and protein.
Quick Freezing Guide
- Choose ripe, firm strawberries without bruises.
- Clean thoroughly and pat dry to avoid ice buildup.
- Remove the stems.
- Spread on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to airtight bags or containers and free
In the kitchen tips
- Start your blender on low and gradually increase to high to get a smooth texture without overworking the motor.
- Liquids first, then soft fruits or vegetables, followed by frozen items and ice on top. This helps the blade move freely and blend more efficiently.
- Pre-portion fruits and store them in the fridge or freezer for an easy go-to.
- If your smoothie is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add more frozen fruits or ice to thicken it without diluting the flavor.
FAQ
Yes, when made with healthy ingredients. Strawberries are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, which are beneficial for heart health and blood sugar control.
The key to a great smoothie is balance. Use ripe, sweet fruits like frozen bananas for creaminess, choose a liquid to compliment, and add a bit of healthy fats or protein to keep you full and for nutritional value.
Ice is optional in a smoothie and is typically used to chill and thicken the drink. If you prefer a creamier smoothie, use frozen fruits instead of ice.
To thicken a vegan smoothie, use ingredients like frozen bananas, avocado, chia seeds, or plant-based yogurt. These add creaminess and nutrients without the dairy.
A high-speed blender is not absolutely necessary but improves the texture, especially when using vegetables or nuts. However, a regular blender works well for most fruit smoothies.
Smoothie-Making Equipment
- Blender: A high-speed blender is ideal for creamy and smooth textures, especially when using frozen fruits or leafy greens.
- Measuring cups and measuring spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients.
- Spatula: For scraping down the sides and getting everything out.
- Smoothie cups or mason jars: Insulated cups are great for keeping your smoothie cold if you're on the go.
- Straws: Optional but helpful, especially for thicker smoothies. If they’re super thick, we like to use a spoon.
📖 Recipe
Sweet Strawberry Smoothie Recipe
Ingredients
- ¾ cups dairy-free milk
- 1-2 Medjool dates, OR use 1 tablespoon maple syrup/agave nectar and see Notes
- ⅛ cup cashews
- 1 teaspoon hemp seeds, OR FLAX
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Drop or two almond extract, optional
- Pinch or two cinnamon, optional
- 1-½ frozen bananas, large, ripe
- 1 cup frozen strawberries
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a blender.
- Start your blender on low and gradually increase to high to get a smooth texture.
- Taste and adjust for sweetness and consistency.
- Serve in a smoothie cup or glass.
- Top with any additional toppings (we love cacao nibs).
Notes
- Maple syrup or agave nectar: Start with 1 tablespoon. After blending, taste and adjust by adding more syrup a little at a time if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
- If your smoothie is too thick, add more milk, 1 tablespoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add a touch more frozen fruits or ice to thicken it.
As the days warm up, nothing quite matches the refreshing joy of a Sweet Strawberry Smoothie.
Enjoy the simplicity and burst of flavor in this easy smoothie and see how easy it is to indulge in a healthy, revitalizing treat that takes you back to carefree summer days.
Don’t forget to experiment with the add-ins and make this smoothie your new family favorite tradition!
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