
Banana Smoothie
Global • Vegetarian
How to Make Banana Smoothie (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Banana Smoothie is a beloved snack that has found its place in Indian kitchens globally, thanks to its creamy texture and naturally sweet flavor. While the smoothie itself has international roots, Indian households have embraced it by adding local ingredients like cardamom (elaichi), honey, and nuts, making it a delightful fusion of taste and health. The popularity of banana smoothie in India has soared due to its simplicity, energizing qualities, and suitability for all age groups. Traditionally, bananas are a staple fruit across regions and are often used in quick drinks and snacks, especially during hot summers or after sports and yoga sessions. This healthy banana smoothie is not only quick to make but also provides a burst of energy and nutrition, making it a preferred choice for busy mornings or post-workout snacks. The addition of low-fat milk or plant-based alternatives ensures that the recipe stays light, while ingredients like chia seeds and almonds add a punch of protein and healthy fats. The subtle hint of cardamom gives it that unmistakable Indian twist, and a drizzle of honey complements the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Whether you're craving something refreshing or looking for a wholesome option for kids, this banana smoothie fits the bill perfectly. The banana smoothie is ideal for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without compromising on flavor. Its creamy, mildly sweet, and aromatic profile makes it a versatile snack that can be enjoyed during breakfast or as a midday energy booster. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for novice cooks and health enthusiasts alike, making it a must-try addition to your Indian snack repertoire.
Ingredients(for 1 tall glass (about 250 ml) per person)
- 2 medium Ripe bananas (peeled and sliced)
- 1 cup Low-fat milk (can substitute with almond milk for vegan)
- 1/2 cup Curd (dahi) (plain, low-fat) - optional
- 1 tablespoon Honey (or maple syrup) - optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Cardamom powder (elaichi) (freshly ground) - optional
- 1 tablespoon Chia seeds (for added protein and fiber) - optional
- 5-6 Almonds (blanched, sliced) - optional
- 6-8 Ice cubes (optional, for chilled smoothie) - optional
- a pinch Cinnamon powder (for flavor) - optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla extract (optional) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Peel and slice the ripe bananas. Add them to a blender jar.
2 minutes
Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and creamy texture.
- 2
Pour in the low-fat milk (or almond milk for a vegan option), curd, and honey.
1 minute
Adjust milk quantity to achieve desired thickness.
- 3
Add cardamom powder, chia seeds, almonds, cinnamon powder, and vanilla extract to the blender.
2 minutes
Soak chia seeds for 5 minutes before blending for smoother consistency.
- 4
Add ice cubes to the blender if you prefer a chilled smoothie.
1 minute
Crushed ice works best for quick chilling.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This banana smoothie is an excellent healthy choice due to its high nutrient density and natural ingredients. It contains no refined sugar, uses low-fat dairy or plant-based milk, and includes wholesome additions like almonds and chia seeds. The smoothie is filling, supports weight management, and is suitable for diabetic, vegetarian, and kid-friendly diets when modified appropriately.
Banana Smoothie is rich in potassium, dietary fiber, and vitamin B6 from bananas, while low-fat milk and curd provide calcium and protein. Chia seeds and almonds add heart-healthy omega-3 fats and additional protein. This combination makes the smoothie a balanced snack, supporting muscle recovery, digestive health, and sustained energy. It is relatively low in saturated fat and can be adapted for vegan diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use overripe bananas for natural sweetness.
- 💡Tip 2: Blend chia seeds separately if you prefer a smoother texture.
- 💡Tip 3: Garnish with chopped nuts for added crunch.
- 💡Tip 4: Adjust milk quantity for desired thickness.
- 💡Tip 5: For vegan smoothie, use almond or soy milk and skip curd.
Storage & Serving
Best consumed fresh. Keeps for 6-8 hours in the refrigerator. Stir well before serving if stored.
Best served: Breakfast or snack time
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 180.0 kcal |
| Protein | 2.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18.5 g |
| Total Fat | 1.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.6 g |
| Sugars | 10.5 g |
| Iron | 0.3 mg |
| Calcium | 38.0 mg |
| Sodium | 38.0 mg |
| Potassium | 330.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 4.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 6.5 mg |
| Magnesium | 27.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.3 mg |
| Phosphorus | 60.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.4 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.1 µg |
| Folate | 18.0 µg |




