How to make the perfect smoothie (2024)

FAQs

How to make the perfect smoothie? ›

Use hefty ingredients to make a thick smoothie.

Use a protein-rich liquid as a base such as dairy milk or soy milk. (Keep in mind that almond milk is low in protein). Include protein-rich ingredients such as yogurt, nut butter, walnuts, or even tofu. Protein is a nutrient that will make your smoothies satisfying, so you won't be raiding the cupboards an hour later.

For optimal smoothie texture, I like to make sure the liquid is fridge-cold. And now for the thickener. Whole-milk Greek yogurt is excellent at thickening and lends satisfying richness and a welcome tang. Rev up your engines and blend!

This can be milk, or a dairy-free alternative such as soya or almond milk, natural or flavoured yogurt, fruit juice, or for a tropical flavoured smoothie, low-fat coconut milk or coconut water. It's important to add the liquid to your blender before adding the fruit, as this will prevent the blade from getting damaged.

Protein Powder. Protein smoothie recipes often contain protein powder, and Spivak says protein is an important part of a nutritious smoothie. “Protein builds and maintains muscle mass, and can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied,” she says.

Tip: Macfarlane recommends one to 1.5 cups of fruit per smoothie. And go for options that are high in fibre and antioxidants, such as berries. Osinga suggests just half a cup of fruit. If you're adding fruit, you don't need maple syrup or honey for sweetness.

A general rule of thumb is to stick to around 1 cup of fruit per smoothie. That's about a serving. Putting a few different fruits in your blender can easily add up to much more so if you're mixing fruits, keep an eye on the total amount. You're not keeping tabs on added sweeteners.

Use flavored yogurt or milk: Another easy way to make your smoothie taste sweeter is by using flavored yogurt or milk instead of plain varieties. Vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate are all great options that will take your smoothie up a notch in the flavor department.

What thickens a smoothie? ›

Using frozen ingredients is the key to creating a thick, satisfying smoothie. Other options for thickening include using fibrous fruits and veggies, adding chia seeds, spooning in yogurt, using avocados, or scooping in protein powder.

Water or milk: I add a splash of liquid to the blender to help the smoothie ingredients blend. For a smoothie without milk, use water. It still tastes amazing. For more creaminess, add milk (dairy or non-dairy both work).

If your smoothie has a lot of solids, start with the lighter ingredients such as leafy greens and herbs. 2. Then add your next batch of solids. If your smoothie has a lot of solids like ice and a combination of frozen and fresh fruits and vegetables, add these more substantial solids in a second layer.

Add about 1 cup (220 g) of ice.

If you'd like a thick smoothie, start with at least 1 cup (220 g) of ice and add more as needed. If you're using frozen fruit, you could leave the ice out since the frozen fruit will act like ice.

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.

Use hefty ingredients to make a thick smoothie.

Ideally, it's drinkable by straw and hefty, which can be achieved by adding in a combo of heartier ingredients. Think a handful of nuts, a scoop of peanut butter, almond butter, or other nut butter, an avocado, kefir, plain Greek yogurt, and/or a banana.

Smoothies made with water and juice tend to come out more liquidy and less full than those made with milk. Juice is also higher in acidity and typically has more sugar than most milk. Milk is higher in calcium which is good for your bones, heart, and muscles. It also helps to give your smoothie a creamy consistency.