- 1 whole banana
- 1/3 cup raw cashews
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 cup ice cubes (about 5-6 large cubes)
1. Start by gathering all your ingredients: banana, raw cashews, water, pure maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla extract, salt, and ice cubes. This will ensure you have everything at hand for a hassle-free experience.2. Next, peel the banana and break it into smaller chunks. This will help it blend more easily.3. In a high-powered blender, add the broken banana, raw cashews, and water. Make sure to use a good quality blender for the best results. If your blender isn’t powerful, let the cashews soak in water for a few hours beforehand to soften them up.4. Sprinkle in the pure maple syrup to add that touch of sweetness. You can adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.5. If you’re including them, toss in the chia seeds. They’re optional, but I highly recommend them for added nutrition and a thicker consistency.6. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors further. The salt is crucial as it balances the sweetness.7. Add the ice cubes last to ensure a refreshingly chilled drink. You can adjust the amount based on how thick you want your smoothie to be.8. Secure the lid on the blender, and start blending on a low speed. This helps to integrate all the ingredients before ramping up the power.9. Once everything starts blending together, gradually increase the speed to high. Blend until smooth and creamy, which should take about 30 seconds. Look for a consistency that is thick yet pourable.10. Once blended to perfection, pour the smoothie into a glass. You can serve it immediately with a straw or garnish it with some extra chia seeds or fresh fruit on top for added flair.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, smoothies are best enjoyed fresh.
- Freezing: You can freeze any leftover smoothie in ice cube trays. Pop them out later and blend for a quick snack!
- Pairing: This smoothie pairs beautifully with a slice of whole-grain toast or a handful of nuts for a balanced breakfast.
- Variations: Feel free to swap in different fruits like mango or berries for a new flavor twist!
- Sweetness levels: Adjust the sweetness to your preference; you can use dates or agave syrup as alternatives if desired.
- Garnishing: Top your smoothie with fresh fruit or granola for added texture and visual appeal.
