The bottom line is that you want your smoothie to taste good and also be good for you. Anytime you have a snack or meal, it should contain protein- and whether you keep it simple or make it extravagant, a smoothie is a great protein delivery vehicle.
Your smoothie protein will likely be in the form of protein powder, Greek yogurt, or nuts and nut butters. Start with this as your base and then add a fruit for flavor and bulk. Round it out with another flavor and you are on your way to a great smoothie!
INGREDIENT POSSIBILITIES:
Real Fruit – adds bulk, flavor and sweetness (frozen makes it icy cold without having to use ice and dilute the flavor)
Chocolate- use straight cocoa powder or a chocolate-flavored protein powder
Peanut Butter- adds protein (I think 1-2 Tbs adds the right amount of PB flavor)
Raw Nuts- thickens and adds protein
Yogurt- use plain unsweetened, it adds a great creaminess (use Greek Yogurt to add protein)
Coconut Milk- adds creaminess, flavor, and great nutrients (available in individual size boxes too!)
Extracts- vanilla and almond are good and can add great flavor
Sweetener- I prefer a few drops of liquid stevia (available at any health food store and most grocery stores)
Spinach! A smoothie is a great way to sneak in your veggies for the day- add a handful of fresh spinach and you will barely notice it
RECIPES TO TRY:
Peanut Butter Chocolate Banana: 1 scoop chocolate protein powder, 1-2 Tbs peanut butter, 1/2 banana and a couple ice cubes; or 1/2 cup greek yogurt, 1 Tbs cocoa powder, 1-2 Tbs peanut butter, 1/2 banana, sweetener to taste.
Raspberry Almond: 1 cup frozen raspberries, 1/2 cup sliced raw almonds, spoonful of yogurt, 1/2 tsp almond extract, sweeten to taste.
Lime-Coconut-Pineapple: 1/2 cup plain greek yogurt, 1/2 cup coconut milk, 2/3 cup frozen pineapple, dash of zest from a lime (sub in vanilla or unflavored protein powder for the Greek yogurt if you want.)
Mocha: 1 cup cold coffee, 1 scoop chocolate protein powder, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 cup ice cubes, 1 Tbs organic half and half.
