Pin it
This strawberry mango smoothie brings together the perfect combination of sweet strawberries and tropical mango for a light, refreshing drink that brightens any morning. My family requests this vibrant smoothie almost daily during summer months when we need something cool and nutritious to start our days.
I created this recipe during a particularly hot summer when my kids were constantly asking for ice cream. This healthier alternative became an instant hit, and now they actually prefer it over sugary treats.
Ingredients
- Frozen strawberries: Provide natural sweetness and vibrant color without needing ice
- Frozen mango chunks: Add tropical flavor and create a velvety smooth texture
- Banana: Delivers creaminess and natural sweetness while adding potassium
- Plain yogurt: Creates richness and adds beneficial probiotics for gut health
- Milk: Thins the smoothie to the perfect consistency while adding calcium
- Honey: Enhances sweetness naturally allowing you to control the sugar level
- Fresh mint leaves: Optional but adds a refreshing aromatic finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add Ingredients to Blender:
- Place frozen strawberries frozen mango chunks sliced banana yogurt milk and honey into your blender jar. Using frozen fruit eliminates the need for ice which would dilute the flavors.
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Process all ingredients on high speed for 1-2 minutes until completely smooth and creamy. Watch for the vortex in the middle of the blender which indicates proper blending is occurring.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If your smoothie is too thick slowly add additional milk one tablespoon at a time while blending until you reach your desired consistency. The perfect smoothie should be thick enough to hold a straw upright but still pourable.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Sample your smoothie and add more honey if needed for sweetness. Remember that frozen fruit varies in sweetness so adjustments might be necessary each time you make it.
- Serve Immediately:
- Pour into glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve right away for the best texture and flavor experience.
Pin it
My favorite ingredient in this smoothie is definitely the mango. The tropical sweetness reminds me of family vacations to Florida where we would pick up fresh mangoes from roadside stands. Even my pickiest eater devours this smoothie without complaint.
Make Ahead Options
While smoothies are best enjoyed immediately after blending you can prepare components ahead of time to save precious morning minutes. Portion out the frozen fruits into individual servings and store them in freezer bags. When ready to make your smoothie simply dump a prepared bag into the blender with the remaining ingredients.
Clever Substitutions
This smoothie recipe is wonderfully flexible. For a dairy-free version substitute coconut milk and coconut yogurt. If mangoes are not available peaches make an excellent alternative with similar texture and complementary flavor. For extra nutrition add a handful of spinach which will blend invisibly while adding nutrients.
Nutritional Boosters
Transform this delicious smoothie into a complete meal by adding protein powder chia seeds or ground flaxseed. These additions increase satiety and provide essential nutrients without significantly changing the flavor profile. A tablespoon of almond butter also adds richness and protein that keeps hunger at bay until lunchtime.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I make the smoothie thinner?
If the smoothie is too thick, simply add more milk and blend again until it reaches your desired consistency.
- → Can I use fresh fruits instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh fruits can be used, but using frozen fruits provides a thicker, colder smoothie without needing ice.
- → Can I substitute the yogurt?
Absolutely, you can use dairy-free yogurt or skip it altogether for a lighter smoothie.
- → How can I adjust the sweetness?
You can add more honey to increase the sweetness or skip it altogether if you find the fruit flavors sweet enough.
- → What other toppings can I use?
You can garnish with fresh mint, chia seeds, granola, or even a few slices of fresh fruit for added texture.