Introduction
The modern smoothie revolution began in the 1960s when health food stores started experimenting with blended fruit drinks, but it wasn't until the 1990s that smoothies became a mainstream phenomenon. This particular combination draws inspiration from both contemporary wellness trends and traditional wisdom – cherries have been celebrated for centuries for their antioxidant properties, while flaxseed was one of the first crops domesticated by humans, prized by ancient civilizations for its nutritional benefits. During summer, when fresh cherries are at their peak, this smoothie becomes an especially refreshing way to start the day or refuel after exercise.
Ingredients
• 2 cups frozen pitted dark sweet cherries
• 1 large ripe banana, peeled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for additional sweetness)
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 4-5 ice cubes
• 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step 1:
Add almond milk, Greek yogurt, and ground flaxseed to the blender.
Step 2:
Add frozen cherries, sliced banana, vanilla extract, and honey (if using).
Step 3:
Add ice cubes last.
Step 4:
Blend on high speed for 60-90 seconds until smooth and creamy, using the tamper if needed to push ingredients toward the blades.
Step 5:
Pause and scrape down sides if necessary, then blend for an additional 15-30 seconds until completely smooth.
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
A: Yes, but add extra ice cubes to maintain thickness and cold temperature.
Q: How can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute Greek yogurt with dairy-free coconut yogurt or additional almond milk.
Q: Why do you need ground flaxseed?
A: Ground flaxseed adds healthy omega-3 fats, fiber, and a subtle nutty flavor.
• Fresh cherries can be substituted for frozen, but add extra ice if using fresh.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut yogurt for Greek yogurt.
• Choose deep purple cherries for best flavor and color.
• Maple syrup can replace honey for vegan option.
• Contains tree nuts (almonds) and seeds (flax).
• For best results, use very ripe banana with brown spots for natural sweetness.
Pour immediately into tall glasses and serve with a reusable straw. Optional: garnish with fresh cherries or a sprinkle of ground flaxseed.
Best consumed immediately. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, though separation may occur. Shake or stir before consuming if stored.
For optimal thickness, use frozen cherries straight from the freezer. Add liquid ingredients first for better blending.
- Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness
- Layer ingredients with liquids at the bottom for efficient blending
- If mixture is too thick, add almond milk one tablespoon at a time
For a green version, add a handful of spinach. For extra protein, add a scoop of vanilla protein powder or substitute Greek yogurt with high-protein skyr.
Serve with a whole grain toast topped with almond butter for a complete breakfast.
Year-round using frozen cherries; best with fresh cherries in summer.
Contains tree nuts (almonds) and dairy (Greek yogurt). May contain traces of other tree nuts depending on almond milk brand. Contains seeds (flaxseed).
