14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (2024)

Bananas are some of the most versatile fruits you can find, and they bring the perfect amount of sweetness and smooth consistency to any smoothie. And just one banana contains more than 400mg of heart-healthy potassium — which is reason enough to try one (or all!) of these 14 healthy banana smoothie recipes. Even better, each of these smoothies is enhanced with ultra-healthy superfoods and will taste better than your run-of-the-mill milkshake, trust.

01of 14

Banana Smoothie with Nuts and Seeds

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (1)

Think of this healthy banana smoothie as your morning boost — with long-term benefits. Flaxseed was shown to lower cholesterol in a Nutrition & Metabolism study, and pumpkin seeds were shown to lower high blood pressure in a Journal of Medicinal Food study. (Can you guess the 10 healthiest nuts and seeds?)

02of 14

Pineapple, Orange, and Banana Smoothie

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (2)

Pineapples and oranges are loaded with vitamin C — and give this smoothie its tropical flavor. A handful of ice gives it a slushy-like texture, but if you prefer a thicker, more milkshake-like mix, freeze cubes of milk (or a non-dairy milk substitute) to use instead.

03of 14

Tropical Green Smoothie

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (3)

Not a spinach fan? Sneak it into your diet with this pineapple, orange, and banana smoothie. The sweet, citrusy flavors will mask the taste of the greens — you're welcome.

04of 14

Pumpkin Banana Smoothie

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (4)

Yes, you can do more with pumpkin than make pie. Try it in this healthy banana smoothie that offers pretty much all the vitamin A you need for the day. And don't just save this healthy drink for the fall — it's too tasty not to blend up year-round.

05of 14

Spicy Kiwi Banana Smoothie

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (5)

With enough flavor to wake you up (thanks to ginger and kiwi) and enough fiber-rich oats to keep you satisfied for hours, this smoothie is a morning must — although it'd make a great afternoon snack, too.

06of 14

Banana Berry Kale Protein Smoothie

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (6)

In training mode? Protein powder (opt for a vegan protein powder, whey protein, or whatever style you prefer), kale, berries, and chia seeds make this the ultimate superfood banana smoothie.

07of 14

Coconut, Pineapple, and Banana Smoothie

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (7)

Coconut lovers, this one's for you: Just four ingredients means this tropical banana smoothie is too easy not to make. (

Healthy Smoothie Popsicles That Taste Just Like Summer

08of 14

Avocado, Pineapple, and Banana Smoothie

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (8)

FYI, avocados aren't just for guac. They add a smooth texture — and an ample serving of healthy fats — to any smoothie. This healthy banana smoothie has pineapple and coconut milk, too, to create a sweet and tropical blend.

09of 14

Banana Mango Yogurt Smoothie

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (9)

This banana smoothie packs a powerful protein punch without the grittiness of powder, thanks to Greek yogurt. Mango and banana team up to thicken the blend and add the just-right amount of natural sweetness.

10of 14

Turmeric Banana Smoothie with Ginger

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (10)

Turmeric may protect your brain and reduce inflammation, according to studies from Stem Cell Research & Therapy and Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, respectively. Let it brighten your morning, too, with the help of this cinnamon-spiked banana smoothie.

11of 14

Watermelon, Strawberry, and Banana Smoothie

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (11)

This summery smoothie is as tasty as it is pretty. And you didn't get the idea here, but it's prob delicious with a splash of rum... (

The 10 Best Summery co*cktails That Just Happen to Be Healthy-ish

12of 14

Banana, Papaya, and Blueberry Smoothie

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (12)

Seeking Rapunzel-like flowing locks? Papaya is loaded with vitamin E, which can promote scalp and hair growth. Raise a glass to that.

13of 14

Chocolate Banana Smoothie

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (13)

Sweet cravings running wild? Get your fix with this cocoa banana smoothie. It tastes so good, you'll feel like you're drinking your dessert!

14of 14

Pomegranate and Banana Smoothie

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (14)

Pomegranates do more than make your tastebuds happy: They may also reduce your risk of lung cancer, according to research from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. For a double dose of pomegranate goodness, try pomegranate juice instead of milk to thin out the consistency.

14 Healthy Banana Smoothie Recipes That Taste Better Than Milkshakes (2024)

FAQs

What makes a smoothie taste better? ›

Adding a touch of honey or agave syrup to your smoothie can sweeten it up and enhance the flavor. These natural sweeteners provide an alternative to refined sugar, allowing you to enjoy a sweeter taste without compromising on health benefits.

What is the healthiest liquid to put in a smoothie? ›

If you're looking to cut calories and sugar from your diet, water is the perfect choice for liquid for smoothies. Not only is it calorie-free and sugar-free, but it's also money-free!

Are bananas still healthy in a smoothie? ›

And before you go tossing your bananas into the compost bin, remember that the popular fruit is still super healthy. It's just worth reconsidering adding them to your smoothie if your goal is to achieve your daily flavanol intake through a drink in the morning.

How to make a tastier smoothie? ›

Think of building flavors in your smoothie as you would think of building flavors while baking. Add spices like ground cinnamon or turmeric, floral extracts like rose water or orange flower water, finely grated fresh ginger, or vanilla extract. If you have some around, add a scoop of protein powder to the mix.

What thickens a smoothie? ›

No ice: If you don't have ice, you can use frozen fruit, oats, chia seeds, yogurt, or nuts and nut butter to thicken your smoothie. No frozen fruit: Add a scoop of raw oats or chia seeds into the blender instead. No yogurt: You can swap yogurt with nut butter to thicken a smoothie.

What is the most important ingredient in a smoothie? ›

There are endless ingredients that you can include in a smoothie, but the healthiest way to make one is to include a balance of protein, carbohydrates and fats. According to registered dietitian Kate Regan, this three-part formula is the key to creating a healthy smoothie.

Is it better to put milk or water in a smoothie? ›

Nutrition: Milk is a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin D. If you are looking for a smoothie that is high in these nutrients, then milk is a good choice. Water, on the other hand, is lower in calories and fat. Taste: Milk can add a creamy texture and richness to smoothies.

What not to mix with bananas? ›

Citrus fruits like lime, oranges or grapefruits if combined with bananas, lead to indigestion or stomach discomfort for some people.

Can I drink banana smoothie everyday? ›

You May Experience Constipation: Banana contains a significant amount of tannic acid. While this chemical isn't harmful in small doses, anyone who eats several bananas or consume banana shake daily in one sitting may experience chronic constipation. So, try to have it in moderate amount.

Are frozen bananas better for smoothies? ›

People freeze bananas for smoothies because frozen bananas add a creamy texture and natural sweetness to the smoothie, making it thicker and more enjoyable to drink. Additionally, freezing bananas also helps to preserve their freshness, as they can be stored in the freezer for several months.

What is the healthiest way to sweeten a smoothie? ›

Here are some of the fresh fruit that has proven to be the best sweeteners and delicious flavors to make a smoothie sweeter:
  1. Figs.
  2. Dates.
  3. Monk Fruit.
  4. Goji berries.
  5. Prunes.
  6. Blueberries.
  7. Strawberries.
  8. Banana.

What should I put in my smoothie to lose weight? ›

Leafy greens, nut butters, and avocado are some of the ingredients frequently found in green smoothies. These ingredients are high in fiber, healthy fat, or protein while also being low in carbohydrates. This means that not only can they help reduce your appetite, but they can also help to boost your metabolism.

What can I add to my smoothie to make it better? ›

Adding protein-rich ingredients like beans, seeds, and nuts to your smoothie will increase the potential health benefits of your smoothie. These ingredients will also keep you feeling full for a longer time. Dairy and non-dairy milk options, such as almond milk or soy milk, can also add extra protein to your smoothie.

Why do store bought smoothies taste better? ›

Excess sugar are added so that the smoothies taste better and preservatives are for longer shelf life. Blending fruits and vegetables have no effect on nutrient loss, but take note that nutrient degradation does occur so it is not advisable to keep your smoothies for long periods of time.

How can I spice up my smoothies? ›

Toss in a teaspoon or two of some of these super spices into your next smoothie to take it to the next level.
  1. Cinnamon. The sweet, warm and comforting taste of cinnamon helps transform your glass of fruits and leafy greens into an equally healthy and tasty drink. ...
  2. Turmeric. ...
  3. Ginger. ...
  4. Nutmeg. ...
  5. Cloves.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Catherine Tremblay

Last Updated:

Views: 5928

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (47 voted)

Reviews: 86% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Catherine Tremblay

Birthday: 1999-09-23

Address: Suite 461 73643 Sherril Loaf, Dickinsonland, AZ 47941-2379

Phone: +2678139151039

Job: International Administration Supervisor

Hobby: Dowsing, Snowboarding, Rowing, Beekeeping, Calligraphy, Shooting, Air sports

Introduction: My name is Catherine Tremblay, I am a precious, perfect, tasty, enthusiastic, inexpensive, vast, kind person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.