Kesar Pista (Pistachio) Smoothie

Note: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Kesar pista or pistachio smoothie is one of a kind – it combines saffron (kesar) and pistachios (pista) with bananacardamom, and milk to create a delicious and nutrient-rich drink that’s perfect for kids and as a post-workout drink.

Saffron and Pistachio smoothie garnished with pistachio powder and saffron strands.
Kesar Pista / Pistachio Smoothie

Looking for a breakfast option that’s both quick and nutritious? Try this pistachio banana smoothie.

Just blend ripe bananas with pistachios, saffron, milk, and your preferred sweetener. The result is a wholesome and satisfying breakfast that provides the energy you need to kickstart your day. It’s a balanced meal that tastes like a treat.

About this pistachio banana smoothie recipe

Kesar (saffron) and pista (pistachios) have been successfully combined with milk a million times. If you grew up in India, you probably have had saffron and pistachios in your milk, kulfi, milkshake, shrikhand.. even as a garnish in your sweets.

That’s why I decided to include kesar and pista as add-ons to this simple banana smoothie. It seemed like an ingenious idea, and when combined with cardamom powder and a tad bit of sugar, it felt more like a dessert than a nutrition-dense smoothie.

Is kesar pista smoothie good for you?

The combination of pistachios and saffron in your banana smoothie not only enhances its flavor but also provides several health benefits.

Pistachios are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and various essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition. They can contribute to heart health, weight management, and improved digestion.

Saffron (kesar) is known for its antioxidant properties, reducing blood pressure, and potential mood-enhancing effects. Kesar also imparts a beautiful orange hue when soaked in water or milk. It is also very fragrant, and a small quantity goes a long way.

Together with the cardamom powder and a touch of sugar, both these ingredients create a delicious and nutritious smoothie that is perfect for growing kids, pregnant moms, and post-workout.

How to make kesar pista smoothie?

Ingredient notes/swaps

  • Saffron (kesar) – for the lovely color imparts and for its health benefits.
  • Warm water to soak the saffron to extract the color/flavor
  • Pistachios, shelled and chopped.
  • Bananas (fresh or frozen) – Use a frozen banana for a thick and creamy texture. Chop ripe bananas overnight and freeze the banana slices for at least 6-8 hours before using.
  • Cardamom seeds or cardamom powder
  • Whole milk – You can also use non-dairy milk such as almond milk or oat milk, instead of regular milk.
  • Sweeteners – This recipe uses sugar, but you can use honey or any other sweetener of your choice.

Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below.

Ingredients for Kesar Pista smoothie in a blender with a banana on the side
Kesar Pista Elaichi / Pistachio Banana Smoothie
Blendetc Blender

The blender I recommend

This blender is not only great for smoothies but also makes fine purees and spice powders.

How to prep ahead

To prep ahead, chop the bananas, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze. Remove it from the freezer just before making the smoothie – no need to thaw.

FAQs

How can I adjust the consistency of my pistachio smoothie?

If you find your smoothie too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, if you prefer a thicker smoothie, try reducing the amount of milk and adding more bananas.

Can I prepare this smoothie in advance?

Most smoothies taste best when consumed freshly made, but you can prepare this pistachio smoothie up to 1-2 days in advance.

Can this smoothie be made vegan?

Replace regular milk with plant-based milk such as almond milk or oat milk.

Tips and Tricks

  • Use a high-powered blender like Blendtec or Vitamix for best results. You may have to run the smoothie cycle twice to get a chunk-free smoothie.
  • Don’t toss those overripe bananas. Peel and chop them and put them in the freezer. Use it in this smoothie without thawing. Frozen bananas, when added to a smoothie, help make it thick and creamy.
A pouring shot of Kesar Pista smoothie
Kesar Pista Smoothie

Enjoying a pistachio smoothie is a great way to treat your taste buds while also improving your daily nutrition by incorporating healthy fats. So grab your blender, gather your ingredients, and blend up this delicious smoothie!

Did you enjoy this recipe or have a question?Please leave a comment below. Don’t forget to rate!
Two glasses of kesar pista smoothie
Click on the stars to rate!
5 from 1 vote

Pistachio banana (kesar pista) smoothie

This smoothie combines saffron (kesar), and pistachios (pista) with banana, cardamom, and milk to create a delicious and nutrient-rich drink that’s perfect for kids and as a post-workout drink.
Pin Print Save
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
  

  • a pinch of saffron kesar
  • 2 tablespoons warm water
  • 2 cups whole milk or oat / almond milk
  • ¼ cup pistachios shelled
  • 1 ripe bananas chopped (fresh or frozen)
  • ½ teaspoon cardamom seeds ground to a fine powder
  • 3 teaspoons sugar

Instructions
 

  • Soak saffron in 2 tablespoons of warm water for about 5 minutes.  Add the soaked saffron along with the water and rest of the ingredients into the blender.
  • Blend all the ingredients in a blender until the smoothie is of a consistency that you desire.
  • Serve immediately.
Read the post…For helpful information on ingredient swaps, storage tips, meal prep ideas, and variations!

Disclaimer: Approximate nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and can vary depending on the exact ingredients/brands used. If you have health issues, please work with a registered dietician or nutritionist.

Nutrition

Calories: 155kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 47mgPotassium: 370mgFiber: 2gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 248IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 161mgIron: 0.4mg
Diet: Vegetarian
Course: Breakfast
Method: No cook
Keywords: Delicious, smoothies, summer drink
Cuisine: Indian

Variations 

  • Mango pistachio smoothie – You can substitute bananas with 1 cup of chopped mangos.
  • Other nuts – In addition to pistachios, add a tablespoon of chopped almonds or cashews to this recipe.
  • Pistachio milkshake – Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to turn it into a creamy milkshake.
  • For a vegan option – Replace regular milk with plant-based milk such as almond milk or oat milk.

Serving suggestions

Serve this pistachio smoothie in a mason jar or a tall glass topped with ground cardamon and finely chopped pistachios.

Leftover ideas

Pour the leftover smoothie into popsicle molds and freeze. Makes for a delicious frozen treat during summer.

How to store

Refrigerator: Smoothies taste best when freshly made. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Stir well before serving.

Freezer: You can freeze this pistachio banana smoothie in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Other delicious recipes worth checking out

Looking for more smoothie ideas that your family will love? Here are my top picks –  

Dry fruit smoothie in a glass jar with straw. Banana, dry fruits, bowls of raisins and dates appear on the side

Dry fruit smoothie

Craving a nutritious treat? Make this quick 6-ingredient dry fruit smoothie recipe for a delicious, healthy indulgence.

chocolate smoothie in a mason jar with straw and banana on the side

Chocolate almond smoothie

Craving a chocolate treat that’s also healthy? Whip up this chocolate almond smoothie recipe – it’s guilt-free indulgence at its best!

Two glasses of orange smoothie with wedges of orange on the rim, two colorful straws in the middle of the smoothie cups, and an orange in the back.

Orange milkshake

Brighten your mornings with our delicious and easy Orange milkshake recipe! It is easy, adaptable, and absolutely delicious.

Date and Chikoo Smoothie served in a glass with a red and white straw on the side

Chikoo milkshake

Experience the healthful goodness of dates and chikoo in this milkshake. It is a delicious treat for any time of the day.

Need more smoothie recipes? Check out this list of 10+ fruit smoothie recipes for when you need fresh ideas to keep your smoothie-drinking routine interesting.

This post was originally published on 12/26/2017 and was completely updated with pictures and new text on 9/16/2023.

Get dinner on the table faster!

Learn my meal planning + prepping secrets to make fresh Indian food without spending hours in the kitchen.

An overhead shot of Gujarathi kadhi along with rice, rotis and a side of lemon

FREE EMAIL COURSE

Simmer to slimmer logo

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




One Comment

  1. 5 stars
    Excellent recipe! For this Midwestern person, this hit the spot for an interesting if not exotic flavor.