This Protein Smoothie is a quick, easy, and nutritious way to start your day or refuel after a workout. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a delicious and satisfying option for anyone looking to boost their daily intake of nutrients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes, it’s perfect for busy mornings.
- Nutrient-Rich: Combines protein, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats for a balanced meal.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
- Satisfying: Keeps you full and energized for hours.
Ingredients
- Unsweetened almond milk (or milk): Provides a liquid base and adds creaminess.
- Protein powder (chocolate or vanilla): Boosts protein content and adds flavor.
- Frozen banana: Adds sweetness, creaminess, and potassium.
- Frozen blueberries: Adds antioxidants and flavor.
- Fresh spinach leaves: Adds vitamins and minerals without overpowering the flavor.
- Almond butter (or peanut butter): Adds healthy fats and protein.
- Ice: For a thicker, colder smoothie.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make a Protein Smoothie
- Add Liquid: Pour the almond milk into a high-powered blender.
- Add Ingredients: Add the protein powder, frozen banana, frozen blueberries, fresh spinach leaves, and almond butter to the blender.
- Blend: Blend on high speed until the smoothie is smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency: If the smoothie is too thick, add more almond milk. For a thicker, colder smoothie, add ice and blend again.
- Serve Immediately: Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use Frozen Fruit: Frozen fruit adds a creamy texture and eliminates the need for too much ice.
- Start with Liquid: Adding the liquid first helps the blender work more efficiently.
- Blend Thoroughly: Blend until all ingredients are completely smooth for the best texture.
- Customize Flavors: Experiment with different fruits, vegetables, and nut butters to create your favorite combinations.
- Add Superfoods: Consider adding ingredients like chia seeds, flax seeds, or hemp seeds for an extra nutritional boost.
How to Serve
- Breakfast: Enjoy as a quick and healthy breakfast.
- Post-Workout: Drink after a workout to replenish nutrients and aid in muscle recovery.
- Snack: Have it as a satisfying mid-day snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Best Served Fresh: Protein smoothies are best consumed immediately after blending.
- Short-Term Storage: If you must store it, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The texture and color may change slightly.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of milk?
- Yes, you can use any type of milk, including dairy, soy, oat, or coconut milk.
- Can I use fresh fruit instead of frozen?
- Yes, but you may need to add more ice to achieve a cold and creamy texture.
- Can I add other vegetables?
- Yes, you can add other leafy greens like kale or vegetables like cucumber.
- Can I use a different type of nut butter?
- Yes, you can use any type of nut butter, such as peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.
- What if I don’t have protein powder?
- If you don’t have protein powder, you can add Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a protein boost.
Protein Smoothie
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Blending
Description
This Protein Smoothie is a quick and nutritious blend of fruits, greens, and protein powder, ideal for a post-workout boost or a healthy meal replacement. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and protein, it’s a delicious way to fuel your day.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk)
- 1 scoop protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tablespoon almond butter (or peanut butter)
- Ice, as needed
Instructions
- Add Liquid: Add almond milk to a high-powered blender.
- Add Ingredients: Add protein powder, banana, blueberries, spinach, and almond butter.
- Blend: Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency: Add more almond milk if needed to help blend. Add more almond milk and ice to reach desired consistency.
Notes
- You can use any type of milk or milk alternative.
- Adjust the amount of protein powder to your preference.
- Add other fruits or vegetables like kale, avocado, or berries.
- For a sweeter smoothie, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
- For a thicker smoothie, use more frozen fruit and ice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 smoothie
- Calories: 271 kcal
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 393 mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 35g
- Trans Fat: 23 g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 23g
