
Bananas are one of the most versatile fruits in the Australian kitchen – affordable, nutritious and always ready for quick, fuss-free cooking. Whether you’ve got a few ripe bananas sitting in the fruit bowl or you simply love their sweet creaminess, there are so many delicious ways to use them beyond banana bread.
From refreshing drinks to surprising savoury dishes and comforting desserts, we’ve put together three easy banana recipes perfect for everyday cooking – especially for people who love simple, flavourful, no-stress meals.
Let’s put those bananas to work!
1. Creamy Banana, Honey & Oat Breakfast Smoothie
Ingredients
1 large ripe banana
½ cup rolled oats
1 cup milk (dairy or almond)
1 tbsp Greek yoghurt
1 tsp honey (optional)
½ tsp cinnamon
3–4 ice cubes
Method
Add all ingredients to a blender.
Blend until completely smooth.
Taste and add more honey or cinnamon if desired.
Pour into a tall glass and enjoy immediately.
Why it works:
This smoothie is high in fibre, gentle on the stomach and gives long-lasting energy – perfect for busy mornings or an easy breakfast for older adults.
2. Savoury Chicken, Banana & Coconut Curry
Ingredients
2 bananas, sliced thickly
500g chicken thigh fillets, cut into chunks
1 onion, sliced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tbsp curry powder
1 tsp turmeric
400ml coconut milk
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup baby spinach
Salt and pepper
Steamed rice, to serve
Method
Heat oil in a large pan and cook onion until soft.
Add garlic, curry powder and turmeric. Stir for 1 minute.
Add chicken and cook until lightly browned.
Pour in coconut milk and simmer for 10 minutes.
Add sliced bananas and spinach. Cook for another 3–5 minutes until bananas soften slightly.
Season well and serve with steamed rice.
Why it works:
Bananas add a subtle sweetness that balances the spices beautifully. This dish is gentle, creamy and comforting – wonderful for people who prefer mild, easy-to-digest meals.
3. Caramelised Bananas with Vanilla Yoghurt
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas, halved lengthways
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp brown sugar
Pinch of salt
Vanilla yoghurt or ice cream, to serve
Method
Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.
Add brown sugar and stir until bubbly.
Place bananas cut-side down and cook for 2–3 minutes until golden.
Flip gently and cook another minute.
Serve warm with vanilla yoghurt or a scoop of ice cream.
Why it works:
Quick, comforting and ready in under 10 minutes — perfect for a cosy dessert that feels indulgent without being heavy.