PROTEIN POWER SMOOTHIE
A quick, nutrient-dense breakfast or post-workout shake ready in 5 minutes

KEY INFO:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes (no cooking required)
Servings: 1 large or 2 small
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary: Vegetarian (vegan option available)
Calories: 300-350 per serving
Protein: 25-30g per serving
EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
- High-speed blender (or regular blender)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Peeler (if using fresh fruits)

INGREDIENTS:
Base:
- 240ml (1 cup) unsweetened almond milk or preferred milk
- 30g (1 scoop) vanilla protein powder
- 1 medium banana, frozen
- 120g (½ cup) Greek yogurt
- 15g (1 tbsp) almond butter
Optional boost:
- 15g (2 tbsp) rolled oats
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- 4-5 ice cubes (if using fresh banana)

METHOD:
- Pour almond milk into blender first (this helps prevent powder sticking to bottom)
- Add protein powder, yogurt, and almond butter
- Break frozen banana into chunks and add
- Add any optional ingredients
- Blend on high for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth
- Check consistency – it should be thick but drinkable. Add more milk if too thick, or ice if too thin

CRUCIAL TIPS:
- Always add liquids first
- Use frozen banana for thick, creamy texture
- Don’t over-blend as this can make smoothie warm and thin
STORAGE:
- Best consumed immediately
- Can be stored in airtight container for up to 24 hours
- Shake well before drinking if stored

VARIATIONS:
- Berry Blast: Add 100g mixed berries
- Green Power: Add handful of spinach
- Chocolate Dream: Use chocolate protein powder and add 1 tbsp cocoa powder
COMMON MISTAKES:
- Using too much liquid initially
- Adding too many ingredients that can make it grainy
- Not freezing banana in advance
I’ve crafted countless smoothies in my test kitchen, and this recipe hits the sweet spot between protein content, taste, and texture. The frozen banana is non-negotiable for that perfect creamy consistency – trust me on this one!



