Are you convinced that the only way to enjoy a perfectly smooth and creamy smoothie is a trip to the smoothie shop? While a good blender helps, I’ve found an ingredient that can turn any thin and icy smoothie into a super-rich and satisfying one — and no, it’s not a frozen banana.

Frozen bananas or thick Greek yogurt are often added to smoothies to make them creamier, but I prefer avocados! Bananas have a distinct flavor that not even the tartest berry can hide. And yogurt isn’t an option for anyone avoiding dairy, but this avocado smoothie can be made with nondairy milk.

Although you can add avocado to any smoothie of your liking, I prefer to blend it with mixed berries, spinach, milk (dairy or otherwise), and maple syrup, which creates a sweet-tart smoothie that is creamy beyond belief. Here’s how to make it.

Why you’ll love it

Key ingredients in avocado berry smoothies

Avocado Berry Smoothie

Makes 2 1/2 cups; serves 2

1 1/2 cups frozen mixed berries, such as blueberry, raspberry, blackberry

1 cup fresh spinach

1 cup dairy or nondairy milk

1/2 ripe medium avocado

1 tablespoon maple syrup

1. Place ingredients in a blender and blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute. Pour into two glasses and serve immediately.

(Patty Catalano is a food editor for TheKitchn.com, a nationally known blog for people who love food and home cooking. Submit any comments or questions to editorial@thekitchn.com.)

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