This Creamy Avocado Smoothie Is a Delicious Way to Help Your Heart — and Waistline

By Leta Shy

Updated on 3/25/2016 at 2:10 PM

This creamy avocado banana smoothie is "the perfect natural pick-me-up," says Rich Goldstein, owner of the Natural Epicurean Academy of Culinary Arts. It's also a delicious way to protect your heart: the monosaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) in avocados and potassium in bananas all offer cardiovascular support, while cinnamon can help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Even better if you're watching your waistline: MUFAs have been shown to target belly fat, so sipping on this frosty low-calorie smoothie when the temperatures rise is a good idea.

Enjoy this creamy, dairy-free smoothie in the morning for breakfast or as part of a cooling lunch.

Related: How Much Avocado Is Too Much?

Avocado Banana Smoothie

Cook Time5 minutes
Yield2 servings
Calories272

From Chef Mark Bailey

INGREDIENTS

    • 3 ripe bananas
    • 2 cups coconut water
    • 1/2 avocado, mashed
    • 2 tablespoons honey
    • 12 ice cubes
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • Dash of salt
    • Banana slices and crushed almonds for topping (optional)

    INSTRUCTIONS

    1. In a blender, combine bananas and coconut water. Puree until smooth.

    2. Add the following 6 ingredients, and continue to blend until smooth.

    3. Serve in frozen mug or glass. Top with banana and crushed nuts, if desired.