Berries smoothie

Ingredients

• 150 g (1 cup)mixed berries
• 1banana
• 120 ml (½ cup)almond milk (or cow’s milk)
• 120 g (½ cup)plain or vanilla yoghurt
• 30 ml (2 tablespoons)agave nectar or another sweetener
• 70 g (½ cup), optionalice

Instructions

1. 1

   Blend everything

   Put all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and evenly combined.

2. 2

   Serve straight away

   Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

What is a berry smoothie?

A smoothie is a blended drink made from fruit and other ingredients such as milk or yoghurt. This style became popular in the United States in the 20th century, alongside the spread of home blenders.

Here, berries bring a sharp, fruity flavour, while banana and yoghurt give the drink body. Almond milk loosens the mixture, and a little agave can round out tart fruit.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 180 calories, 5g protein, 38g carbs, 2g fat.

The banana, berries and agave provide most of the carbohydrates, while yoghurt contributes some protein and fat. Almond milk is usually low in protein, though cow’s milk will change the balance; pair a glass with a protein-rich food such as eggs or extra yoghurt if you want a more substantial meal.

Choosing the ingredients

Berries: Fresh or frozen mixed berries both work. Frozen fruit makes the smoothie colder and thicker, so you may need less ice.

Banana: A ripe banana blends readily and adds natural sweetness. If the berries are already sweet, you can reduce the agave.

Getting the texture right

Liquid first: Add the almond milk to the blender before the thicker ingredients if your blender struggles to catch them. This can help the blades move the mixture around.

Ice: Include it for a colder, slightly thicker drink, or leave it out for a softer texture. Blend until there are no noticeable pieces of fruit or ice.

Adjusting the sweetness

Sweetener: Agave is optional in practice, as the banana and berries may be sweet enough. Taste the blended drink and add a little more only if needed.

Yoghurt: Plain yoghurt keeps the flavour less sweet, while vanilla yoghurt adds sweetness and a distinct vanilla note.

Serving ideas

Serve: Pour the smoothie into glasses as soon as it is blended, while it is cold and smooth.

Pairing: For a more filling breakfast, serve it alongside toast, porridge or eggs rather than changing the drink itself.

Recipe notes & tips

• Use a ripe banana for an easily blended, sweeter smoothie.
• If using frozen berries, start without the ice and add it only if you want a colder drink.
• Blend briefly, check the consistency, then blend again if any fruit pieces remain.
• Taste before adding all the agave, especially when using sweetened vanilla yoghurt.
• Add a small splash of milk if the mixture is too thick to pour.

Variations

• Use cow’s milk: Swap it for the almond milk for a different flavour and texture.
• Choose frozen berries: Blend them straight from the freezer for a colder, thicker drink.
• Change the sweetener: Use another sweetener in place of agave, adjusting to taste.
• Use plain yoghurt: Choose plain yoghurt for a less sweet, more tangy result.
• Skip the ice: Leave it out when using frozen fruit or when you prefer a softer texture.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Adding too much sweetener: Taste the smoothie first, then sweeten gradually.
• Using too little liquid: Add a splash more milk if the blender cannot move the mixture.
• Leaving large fruit pieces: Blend until the drink is evenly smooth before pouring.
• Using ice with frozen berries: Start without ice so the smoothie does not become colder or thicker than you want.
• Letting it stand: Serve straight away, as the texture is best just after blending.

How to store

This smoothie is best served immediately. If needed, refrigerate it in a covered container and drink within 24 hours; shake or briefly re-blend before serving, as it may separate.

Frequently asked questions