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This watermelon smoothie is my summertime secret weapon for beating the heat while satisfying my sweet tooth naturally. The combination of juicy watermelon, strawberries, and creamy banana creates a refreshing treat that's both nourishing and delicious.
I first created this smoothie during a particularly brutal heatwave last summer when even standing near the stove felt unbearable. My family was immediately hooked, and now it's our go-to weekend breakfast treat during the warmer months.
Ingredients
- Fresh watermelon chunks: provides natural sweetness and hydration perfect for using summer melons at peak ripeness
- Frozen strawberries: add antioxidants and create that perfect thick texture no need for ice
- Frozen bananas: deliver creaminess and natural sweetness look for spotty bananas to freeze for maximum sweetness
- Lime juice and zest: brightens the entire smoothie with citrusy tang use organic when possible for the zest
- Vegan yogurt: adds protein and probiotics choose a plain unsweetened variety for best results
- Maple syrup: enhances the natural sweetness just a touch makes all the difference
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add Ingredients to Blender:
- Always place watermelon at the bottom near the blades which helps create initial liquid for blending. Follow with remaining ingredients in the order listed to ensure smoothest blending process.
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Cover blender with lid and process on high speed for about 30 to 45 seconds. Use the tamper if you have one to push ingredients toward the blade for more efficient blending. The texture should be smooth and uniform with no remaining chunks.
- Serve Creatively:
- Pour finished smoothie into glasses for simple serving or take the presentation up a notch by hollowing out a small watermelon half to create an edible bowl. This Instagram-worthy presentation makes it perfect for summer gatherings and adds zero waste to your kitchen.
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The velvety texture comes from the combination of frozen fruits and that touch of vegan yogurt. My children now request this smoothie every weekend morning during summer while we sit on our patio watching hummingbirds visit our garden flowers.
Perfect Thickness Tips
The beauty of this watermelon smoothie lies in its versatility. As written, the recipe creates a thick, spoonable consistency that works perfectly in a bowl topped with fresh fruit or granola. For a thinner, more drinkable version, simply add water starting with 1/4 cup and increasing until you reach your desired consistency. The watermelon itself provides quite a bit of liquid, so add additional liquid gradually to avoid making it too thin.
Make It Your Own
This recipe welcomes customization based on your preferences or what you have available. Replace strawberries with raspberries or blackberries for different flavor profiles. Add a handful of spinach for extra nutrition without changing the taste significantly. For protein boost, include a tablespoon of chia seeds or hemp hearts. If you prefer tropical flavors, swap lime for pineapple chunks and add a touch of coconut milk instead of vegan yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
Transform this smoothie into a complete breakfast by serving in a bowl topped with fresh berries, granola, and a drizzle of almond butter. For an elegant dessert option, pour into small glasses and garnish with a watermelon wedge and fresh mint leaf. During summer gatherings, create a smoothie bar with the base recipe and various toppings so guests can customize their own. The natural pink color also makes this perfect for children's parties or baby showers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I adjust the creaminess of this smoothie?
Adjust the creaminess by adding a small amount of water, starting with 1/4 cup, until your desired consistency is achieved.
- → Can I replace bananas in this smoothie?
Yes, you can replace bananas with frozen zucchini. Peel and chop the zucchini into small chunks before freezing.
- → How do I serve this smoothie creatively?
Cut a mini watermelon in half, scoop out the flesh, and use the rind as a bowl to serve your smoothie.
- → What if I don't have vegan yogurt?
You can substitute vegan yogurt with coconut cream or a plant-based milk of your choice for a creamy texture.
- → Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?
This smoothie is best served fresh, but you can store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. Reblend with a bit of water if it thickens.