Berry Protein Smoothie
This Berry Protein Smoothie is packed with 23 grams of protein per serving and is ready in just 5 minutes. This smoothie is easy to make and will actually keep you full and satisfied for a healthy breakfast or snack!
Berry Banana Protein Smoothie
Looking for a quick and nutritious way to kickstart your day or refuel after a workout? This Berry Banana Protein Smoothie is the perfect blend of fruity flavors, creamy texture, and 23 grams protein boost to keep you satisfied.
I love incorporating protein into my breakfasts to help keep me full and energized throughout the morning. Some days, I’ll whip up a batch of Fluffy Protein Pancakes for a cozy start to the day, or enjoy a jar of Protein Overnight Oats when I’m on the go. This smoothie is another favorite—it’s quick, delicious, and packed with everything you need to fuel your day.
Benefits Of Adding Protein To A Smoothie
Smoothies are often seen as being high in sugar and not very filling. But with some added protein, smoothie make a great nourishing breakfast or snack. Here are some of the amazing benefits of adding protein to your smoothie.
- Keeps You Full Longer: Protein helps curb hunger and keeps you satisfied, making it a great addition to a breakfast smoothie or post-workout snack.
- Supports Muscle Recovery: If you’ve just finished a workout, a protein-packed smoothie helps in repairing and building muscle.
- Balances Blood Sugar: Combining protein with carbs (like those from the banana and berries in this smoothie) helps stabilize blood sugar levels so you don’t have a dip in energy.
Why You’ll Love This Protein Smoothie
- Nutrient-Dense: It’s loaded with fiber, protein, vitamins and antioxidants, to keep you energized throughout the day.
- Quick and Easy: This smoothie comes together in under 5 minutes, making it a great choice for busy mornings!
- Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients in this smoothie to suite your taste preferences.
Ingredients And Substitutions
- Frozen Banana: I find it important for smoothies to use FROZEN bananas rather than fresh bananas. Frozen bananas will give your smoothies a smooth and creamy texture.
- Berries: You can use any type of berries you have on hand, or a mix of berries. I love using a blend of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries in this smoothie that I buy in the fozen fruit section at the grocery store.
- Chia Seeds: there are so many great ways to use chia seeds. One of them is adding them to smoothies for some added nutrients and fiber.
- Protein Powder: I like to use plant-based vanilla protein powder in this smoothie. Vanilla protein powder will add more flavor and sweetness to the smoothie. But you can also use unflavored protein powder if you prefer.
- Liquid: Unsweetened almond milk is my go-to for smoothies to add some creaminess and a hint of sweetness, but you can use any type of plant-based or dairy milk you like. You can also use water if that’s all you have on hand, though this can make the smoothie slightly more bland.
*This is just a recipe overview. The full recipe with instructions and measurements can be found below in the recipe card.
How To Make A Protein Packed Smoothie
Step 1
Add the banana, berries, protein powder, chia seeds and almond milk to a blender. I recommend adding liquids and fresh ingredients on the bottom, followed by frozen ingredients on top for easy blending.
Step 2
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 3
Pour into a glass and enjoy. Add any toppings you love to your smoothie.
Recipe Variations
Not a fan of bananas or want to switch things up? Here are some variations to try:
- Banana-Free: Substitute the banana with ½ cup of frozen mango, avocado or coconut meat for creaminess.
- Berry Swap: Use strawberries, raspberries, blackberries or blueberries instead of a mixed blend.
- Additional Add-Ins: Try adding spinach, Greek yogurt, or a spoonful of almond butter for added nutrients.
- Different Milk Options: Swap almond milk for oat, coconut, cashew milk or dairy milk.
Expert Smoothie Making Tips
- Freeze Your Ripe Bananas: Have ripe bananas on your countertop? Peel them and cut them in half, and place in them in a freezer bag in the freezer to keep on hand for smoothies.
- Use Frozen Fruit: Use at least one type of frozen fruit (banana or berries), or both. This ensures a thick and creamy texture without the need for ice. I like to let my fruit thaw for 5 minutes for easier blending.
- Use Flavourful Fruit: when I can, I love freezing local fresh berries and using them in my smoothie as I find they have much more taste than store bought berries. The better your fruit tastes the better your smoothie with taste!
- Blend in Layers: Add liquid to the blender first, followed by smaller ingredients, and top with frozen items for smoother blending.
- Customize Sweetness: If needed, add a touch of honey, maple syrup, or a date for added sweetness.
- Green Boost: Add a handful of greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrients. (You won’t taste it and it won’t change the color of your smoothie!)
- Adjust Consistency: Adjust the amount of almond milk to control thickness. (This will depend on whether you use fresh vs frozen fruit.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Blend the smoothie, pour it into a sealed jar, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Shake before drinking.
You can use Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, silken tofu, or nut butter as alternatives.
Yes, but it will slightly reduce the creaminess of the smoothie and the overall flavor.
The best protein powder for smoothies depends on your preferences and dietary needs. Look for a high-quality vanilla protein powder with minimal added sugars and natural ingredients. There are plant-based options that are dairy-free, or whey protein if you don’t mind dairy. My favourite is Spout Living Protein. (you can use my promo code “choosingchia” for 20% off.
Berry Protein Smoothie
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 smoothie 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Blend
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This berry protein smoothie is packed with 20 grams of protein for a healthy breakfast or snack!
Ingredients
- 1 frozen banana
- 3/4 cup mixed berries (fresh or thawed)
- 1/2 cup almond milk* (see note)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (I use Sprout Living, code “choosingchia” for 20% off)
- 1 tsp chia seeds
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to a high speed blender and blend until smooth.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy!
Notes
- Depending on whether you use frozen or fresh fruit, you may need more or less liquid. Start with less and add more if needed for the smoothie to blend smoothly.
- Using some frozen fruit will result in a thicker and creamier smoothie.
- Use any type of protein powder you love.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 smoothie
- Calories: 305`
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: q
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 23g
