Bright, refreshing, and naturally sweet, this Lemon Basil Smoothie is a perfect plant-based drink to start your day or enjoy as a revitalizing snack.
Packed with fiber from banana, antioxidants from fresh basil, and plant-based protein from almond milk, it’s low in saturated fat and easy to digest.
Quick to prepare, nutrient-rich, and naturally sweetened, it’s an ideal everyday smoothie that’s both energizing and satisfying.
Lemon Basil Smoothie
Equipment
- 1 blender (standard kitchen blender)
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 tablespoon or teaspoon for measuring vanilla
- 1 knife (for slicing lemon or lime)
- 1 glass (for serving)
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond milk or milk of choice
- 1 medium banana preferably frozen
- ½ teaspoon vanilla powder or ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Juice of 1 lemon or lime
- 3 –4 fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Banana: Start by selecting a ripe banana for natural sweetness and creaminess. If you prefer a chilled smoothie, use a frozen banana, which adds a thicker, more refreshing texture. Peel the banana and break it into smaller chunks to help your blender process it more efficiently.
- Measure the Almond Milk: Pour 1 cup of almond milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice) into a measuring cup. Almond milk provides a smooth base, mild flavor, and subtle nutty notes while keeping the smoothie dairy-free and low in saturated fat.
- Juice the Lemon or Lime: Cut one fresh lemon or lime in half. Using a citrus juicer or by hand, squeeze out the juice, removing any seeds. The zesty citrus adds bright, tangy flavor while providing vitamin C and enhancing the smoothie’s freshness. Set aside the juice for blending.
- Prepare the Basil Leaves: Take 3–4 fresh basil leaves, rinse them gently under cold water, and pat them dry. Basil adds a fragrant, herbal note along with antioxidants and essential vitamins. Removing excess water prevents the smoothie from becoming too watery.
- Add Vanilla for Sweetness: Measure out a big dash of vanilla powder or vanilla extract and add it to the blender. Vanilla enhances the smoothie’s natural sweetness and complements the citrus and basil without adding sugar.
- Combine Ingredients in Blender: Place the banana chunks, almond milk, lemon juice, basil leaves, and vanilla into the blender. Arrange the ingredients so the liquid sits at the bottom, which helps the blades move freely and ensures smooth blending.
- Blend Until Smooth: Secure the blender lid and start blending on a low speed, gradually increasing to high. Blend for 30–60 seconds or until the mixture is silky, creamy, and free of visible banana or basil chunks. Scrape down the sides of the blender as needed to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Check Consistency and Adjust: Pause to check the texture. For a thicker, colder smoothie, add a few ice cubes or another slice of frozen banana. For a thinner consistency, add a splash more almond milk. Blend again briefly to incorporate.
- Taste and Adjust Flavors: Taste your smoothie carefully. If you prefer it sweeter, add a small amount of natural sweetener like maple syrup or agave. If you want a stronger citrus note, squeeze in a bit more lemon or lime juice. Blend for a few more seconds to fully combine.
- Serve and Enjoy Immediately: Pour the smoothie into a glass and, if desired, garnish with a small basil leaf or a thin lemon slice for a visual touch. Serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant flavors and optimal freshness.
- Optional Tips for Chilling: If you prefer an extra-cold smoothie, refrigerate the almond milk beforehand, or keep the banana frozen until ready to blend. Drinking it cold enhances the refreshing qualities, especially on a warm day.
Notes
- Use frozen banana for a thicker, colder smoothie that feels creamy and indulgent without dairy.
- Fresh basil leaves are key—avoid dried basil, as it lacks the bright, herbal flavor.
- Almond milk can be substituted with oat, soy, or coconut milk depending on preference.
- Vanilla powder adds subtle sweetness, but vanilla extract works just as well.
- For extra chill, add a few ice cubes, especially if using fresh bananas.
- Adjust lemon or lime juice to taste; more juice will intensify the refreshing tang.
- This smoothie is naturally sweetened—no sugar is needed, making it suitable for sugar-conscious diets.
- Blend thoroughly to ensure basil leaves are fully incorporated for a smooth, even texture.
- Perfect for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or post-workout refreshment.
- Garnish with a small basil leaf or lemon slice for visual appeal and aroma.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Smoothie
To create a truly exceptional Lemon Basil Smoothie, always prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and creamy texture, while fresh basil leaves deliver vibrant herbal notes that dried herbs cannot match.
Using frozen bananas or adding ice cubes gives the smoothie a refreshing chill and thick consistency.
Blending in stages—liquid first, then solids—ensures a smoother texture without overworking the blender.
Don’t forget the vanilla; it balances the citrus and adds subtle sweetness, making the flavor profile complex yet harmonious.
Small adjustments, like more or less lemon juice, allow you to customize the tang to your taste perfectly.
Serving Suggestions For Daily Enjoyment
This smoothie is versatile and easy to integrate into your daily routine.
Serve it in a tall glass for a refreshing breakfast, or pair it with a handful of nuts for a protein-packed snack.
Its vibrant green color and aromatic basil make it visually appealing for brunch tables.
It also works wonderfully as a post-workout refresher because of its natural sugars and electrolytes from banana and lemon.
Garnish with a basil leaf or thin lemon slice to elevate presentation, or drizzle a touch of nut butter for added richness and satiety.
Storage Tips To Keep Freshness
This smoothie is best enjoyed immediately to preserve flavor, freshness, and nutrients.
If you need to store it, pour the smoothie into an airtight container or mason jar and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Shake or stir well before drinking, as natural separation may occur.
For longer storage, consider freezing in ice cube trays, then blending the frozen cubes with a splash of almond milk for a fresh smoothie anytime.
Avoid storing at room temperature, as the banana will oxidize and the basil may lose its vibrant color and aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh lemon instead of lime?
Absolutely! Both lemon and lime add a bright citrusy tang.
Lemon offers a slightly sweeter, less tart flavor, while lime gives a sharper, zestier note.
You can adjust according to your taste preference.
2. Is it okay to use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is strongly recommended for its vibrant aroma and flavor.
Dried basil lacks the brightness and can make the smoothie taste flat.
If necessary, use a very small pinch, but the flavor won’t be the same.
3. Can I make this smoothie thicker or thinner?
Yes. For a thicker smoothie, use frozen banana or add a few ice cubes.
For a thinner consistency, add a splash of almond milk and blend until smooth.
Adjust gradually to reach your desired texture.
4. Can I substitute almond milk with another plant-based milk?
Certainly! Oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk all work well.
Each milk will slightly alter the flavor—coconut adds a tropical note, oat milk gives creaminess, and soy milk adds mild nuttiness.
5. Can I prepare this smoothie in advance?
You can prepare the ingredients in advance, such as chopping bananas and juicing lemon, then store separately in the refrigerator.
Blend just before serving to maintain freshness, flavor, and color.
If pre-blended, consume within 24 hours and stir well before drinking.
