There was a time when extra overripe bananas meant the pleasure or pressure to bake. Once I made the banana ice scream recipe from the Vitamix cookbook, I realized that bananas were just as useful frozen as any other frozen fruit. This is an easy way to preserve those spare bananas without them sticking together! The wax paper + bag help keep freezer burn out too.
How To Freeze Bananas:
- Tear off a large sheet of wax paper and then tear into small rectangular pieces. No exact measurement needed here.
- Peel and break bananas into halves.
- Place on individual pieces of wax paper and roll each banana up.
- Store rolls in a sealable bag in your freezer for up to 6 months.
The below recipe is a great base for more complex smoothies. I almost always start with a liquid, greens, and berries and from there, go on to add other fruits, protein, and omega 3 sources. But even just on its own, this basic combination is a great starter green smoothie. You just can’t beat getting most of your servings of fruits, veggies, vitamins, micro- and macro nutrients in one glass!
Banana Berry Base Smoothie
Makes 1 12-14 oz smoothie
Blend the following:
1.5-2 cups baby spinach
1/2 banana
1 cup frozen strawberrries (If using fresh, replace a 1/2 cup of the liquid with a1/2 cup of ice.)
1.5 cups water or nondairy milk of choice, plain or vanilla.
Optional: You can replace the strawberries with mixed berries or another berry. Add 1 tbsp nut butter for more creaminess and protein and or protein powder, hempseed, or other fruits.
For more green and non-green smoothie recipes, click here!
