The banana tahini smoothie is a creamy and satisfying drink that blends the nutty tahini with the natural sweetness of ripe banana and Medjool dates.
This creamy smoothie is not just delicious but also nourishing. This mix of healthy fats, protein, and natural sugars makes it an ideal choice for a filling breakfast shake or an afternoon treat.
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The toasted almonds are a perfect addition to enhance the great flavor of this smoothie. Their crunchy, nutty texture makes this drink both comforting and indulgent.
The tahini banana smoothie is a perfect blend of flavors and a creamy texture, offering a unique twist on a classical smoothie. If you're looking for another unique flavor try Banana Date Smoothie flavored with mastic gum.
For more refreshing drinks check out my watermelon mint juice or lemon mint recipe.
What is Tahini?
Tahini, also pronounced tahina, is a Middle Eastern condiment with a nutty flavor made from toasted ground sesame seeds. Tahini is considered a major ingredient in hummus and baba ghanoush which are popular not only in the Middle East but becoming more mainstream in the US and across the globe, and used in a variety of recipes
Tahini which originates from Middle Eastern cuisine, is known for its rich, nutty, and creamy taste. Tahini is simply a paste made from ground sesame seeds.
To learn more about tahini and how to use it with other savory dishes click here.
WHY WE LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- Easy to Prepare: It's easy and quick to make, kids and adults love it.
- No Sugar: This mix is all fresh and healthy, with no sugar added, the sweetness comes from the Medjool dates.
- Distinctive Taste: The smoothie blends the nutty, slightly savory flavor of tahini with the sweet, creamy banana, creating a flavor profile that’s both unique and delicious. This combination offers something different from the usual fruit-based smoothies, making it a standout.
- Health Benefits: Packed with healthy fats from the tahini, potassium from the banana, and protein from milk, this smoothie is not only tasty but also nourishing. It provides a balanced mix of nutrients that can support energy levels and keep you feeling satisfied.
Equipment
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Blender or Food Processor - This is used to blend all ingredients.
Ingredients
Full ingredients, measurements, and instructions are in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Bananas - ripe bananas, frozen banana, or fresh bananas can be used in this recipe.
- Milk - Use regular milk or any plant-based milk of your preference.
- Tahini - make sure to use a good brand of tahini paste.
- Medjool Dates - where the natural sweetness comes from.
- Chopped Toasted Almonds (optional) - the toasted almonds give this recipe a crunchy toasty flavor.
Instructions
Step 1 | Add the banana, tahini, Medjool dates (remove pit), and milk to a blender.
Step 2 | Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
Step 3 | Pour into a glass or mason jars, sprinkle on top chopped toasted almonds (optional) or a pinch of cinnamon, and enjoy immediately.
Variations and Substitutions
- Almond Butter or Peanut Butter: If you don’t have tahini or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute it with almond butter, peanut butter, or any other nut or seed butter. This will change the flavor slightly but still provide a creamy texture.
- Sunflower Seed Butter: For those with a nut allergy, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative.
- Non-dairy milk - For a dairy-free alternative use unsweetened almond milk, soy milk coconut milk, or any other plant-based milk.
- Greek Yogurt - you can use yogurt instead of milk
- Agave, Stevia, or Monk Fruit - If you don't have Medjool dates and for a low-calorie sweetener, use stevia or monk fruit, but start with a small amount as they are much sweeter than sugar.
- You can use maple syrup instead of dates.
- Add spices - a dash of cinnamon or Nutmeg can add warmth and depth to your smoothie.
- Make it chocolaty: You can make a chocolate tahini smoothie and add 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder to blend with the ingredients.
- You can add chia seeds.
- You can add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- You can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess.
Experts Tips
- Use Frozen Bananas: For a thicker and creamier smoothie, use frozen bananas. They not only add a nice texture but also make the smoothie colder without the need for ice cubes.
- Experiment with Spices: Try adding a pinch of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to enhance the flavor profile of your smoothie.
- Boost the Protein: If you want to make your smoothie more filling, consider adding a scoop of vanilla protein powder.
- Toasted Almonds: To toast almonds, place a handful of raw almonds under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, and stir them after 3 minutes to toast evenly, once cooled, chop with a sharp knife. Use about 1 teaspoon and keep the leftover in a jar in the fridge.
- If your blender is not high-speed, you can soften the dates by soaking them in hot water for 15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The natural sweetness of the banana and the dates provides enough sweetness for the smoothie. However, if you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a little honey or maple syrup.
If you’re not a fan of bananas or don’t have any on hand, you can substitute with fruits like mango, avocado, or frozen blueberries. Avocado will give you a similar creamy texture without the sweetness.
Tahini has a distinct nutty flavor that is noticeable. The banana and any added sweeteners help to balance its earthiness. I'm using a small amount of tahini in this recipe which gives the smoothie enough taste without overpowering the flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
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More Delicious Recipes
Banana Tahini Smoothie
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Category: Breakfast/snack
- Cuisine: Palestinian/Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Description
The banana tahini smoothie is a creamy and satisfying drink that blends the nutty tahini with the natural sweetness of ripe banana and Medjool dates.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe frozen bananas
- 1.5 cups milk
- 2-3 Madjool date
- 1.5 tablespoons tahini
- Crushed toasted almonds (optional)
Instructions
- Add the banana, tahini, Medjool dates (remove pit), and milk to a blender.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
- Pour into a glass or mason jar, sprinkle on top crushed toasted almonds or a pinch of cinnamon, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use Frozen Bananas: For a thicker and creamier smoothie, use frozen bananas. They not only add a nice texture but also make the smoothie colder without the need for ice cubes.
- Experiment with Spices: Try adding a pinch of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to enhance the flavor profile of your smoothie.
- Boost the Protein: If you want to make your smoothie more filling, consider adding a scoop of vanilla protein powder.
- Toasted Almonds: To toast almonds, place a handful of raw almonds under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, and stir them after 3 minutes to toast evenly, once cooled, chop with a sharp knife. Use about 1 teaspoon and keep the leftover in a jar in the fridge.
- If your blender is not high-speed, you can soften the dates by soaking them in hot water for 15 minutes.
Sam says
I never thought of adding tahini to my smoothie, what a great idea! Thanks for the recipe
Wafa Shami says
Hi Sam, you are welcome! Enjoy.