Prep your fruit: Hull the strawberries. Peel the banana. For an ultra-thick shake, use frozen fruit or slice and freeze the banana ahead of time.

Add liquids first: Pour the milk into your blender. This helps the blades catch and blend smoothly.

Layer the rest: Add strawberries, banana, yogurt, vanilla (if using), and a tiny pinch of salt. Drizzle in honey or maple syrup if your fruit isn’t very sweet.

Blend until creamy: Start on low, then increase to high. Blend 30–45 seconds, or until perfectly smooth. Scrape down the sides if needed.

Adjust texture: Too thick? Add a splash more milk. Too thin? Toss in a few ice cubes or a bit more frozen fruit and blend again.

Taste and tweak: Add a touch more sweetener or vanilla if desired. Blend for a final 5 seconds.

Serve cold: Pour into a chilled glass. For flair, top with a strawberry slice, banana coin, or a sprinkle of granola.