Mango & Almond Smoothie

This quick mango and banana smoothie blends frozen fruit with milk, water and almond butter for a creamy, satisfying drink. It takes only a few minutes to make and needs just four ingredients, plus water.
Ingredients
- 120 ml (½ cup)milk, any kind
- 120 ml (½ cup)water
- 240 ml (1 cup)frozen mango chunks
- 1ripe banana, frozen
- 15 ml (1 tablespoon)almond butter
Instructions
- 1
Add the ingredients
Pour the milk and water into a blender, then add the remaining ingredients.
- 2
Blend until smooth
Blend until the mixture is smooth.
What is a mango and banana smoothie?
A smoothie is a blended drink made from fruit and a liquid, often served cold. This version pairs mango and banana with almond butter for a creamy texture and a gentle nutty flavour.
There is no single traditional origin for this particular combination. Its appeal is in the simple method: frozen fruit chills and thickens the drink as it blends.
Nutrition and macros by portion
The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 165 calories, 5g protein, 27g carbs, 7g fat.
| Portion | Adjustment | kcal | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lighter | Use lower-fat milk | 115 kcal | 3g | 19g | 5g |
| This serving | As written | 165 kcal | 5g | 27g | 7g |
| Hungry | Serve with toast | 248 kcal | 7g | 41g | 10g |
The banana and mango provide most of the carbohydrates, while the almond butter and milk contribute much of the fat and protein. Pair a glass with a protein-rich food, such as plain yoghurt, if you want a more balanced meal.
Why use frozen fruit?
Frozen mango: it brings a chilled, thick texture straight from the freezer, so there is no need to add ice.
Frozen banana: it helps make the smoothie creamy and adds sweetness. Break it into chunks before freezing if you have not already done so.
Getting a smooth blend
Liquid first: adding the milk and water before the fruit gives the blades some liquid to draw down as they start blending.
Almond butter: it can cling to the sides of the blender, so scrape it in fully and blend until no streaks remain.
Adjusting the consistency
For a thicker drink, use fruit that is fully frozen and blend just until smooth. For a thinner result, add a little more water and blend again.
Blender power and fruit size can affect how long blending takes, so use the smooth texture as your cue rather than a fixed time.
Serving the smoothie
Pour it into two glasses and serve straight away, while it is cold and creamy. It works as a quick breakfast or snack on its own.
For a more substantial meal, pair it with something savoury or a source of protein, such as eggs or plain yoghurt.
Recipe notes & tips
- Cut the banana into pieces before freezing so it is easier to blend.
- Use unsweetened milk if you prefer the fruit's natural sweetness to stand out.
- Add the almond butter carefully so it does not stick to the blender jug.
- Blend again briefly if you spot fruit pieces or almond butter streaks.
- Pour and serve soon after blending for the coldest, thickest texture.
Variations
- Use oat milk: choose it for a dairy-free version with a mild flavour.
- Add a little lime: blend in a squeeze for a sharper, fresher taste.
- Use peanut butter: swap it for the almond butter for a different nutty flavour.
- Add yoghurt: blend in a spoonful for a tangier, creamier drink.
- Add cinnamon: blend in a small pinch for a warm spice note.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Adding fruit first: pour in the liquids first so the blades can get moving more easily.
- Using an unripe banana: choose a ripe one for a sweeter, smoother-tasting drink.
- Stopping too soon: blend until the fruit and almond butter are fully incorporated.
- Adding too much water: start with the stated amount, then thin the smoothie gradually if needed.
How to store
This smoothie is best served immediately. If needed, refrigerate it in a covered container and drink within a day; shake or re-blend before serving, as it may separate.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use fresh mango?
Yes, but the smoothie will be less cold and may be thinner. Add a few ice cubes if you want a colder, thicker result.
Can I make it without almond butter?
Yes. Leave it out, or replace it with another nut or seed butter; the flavour and nutrition will change.
Can I use a non-dairy milk?
Yes. Use your preferred milk alternative in the same quantity.
How can I make it thinner?
Blend in a little extra water or milk at a time until it reaches the consistency you like.
Can I prepare it ahead?
It is best fresh, but you can refrigerate it in a sealed container for up to a day. Shake or blend it again before drinking.
Cook it from the original
This recipe comes from zestfulkitchen.com. Their page has the author’s own photos, notes and tips — the best place to cook it from.
Open the recipe on zestfulkitchen.com