Smoothies are a fantastic, simple way to fit nutrients into your daily diet. While they may be best known for their ability to meet your daily fruit and veggie requirements even while on the go, they can also be a great source of protein—which is one of the most crucial components of a well-balanced diet, especially for those trying to lose weight. Ensuring you’re eating enough protein is integral when it comes to building muscle, boosting metabolism, and blasting fat. So if you’re after a slimmer waistline this summer, it’s time to throw some high-protein ingredients in you’re blender!
Below, we’re rounding up a few smoothie recipes that are nutritious as they are delicious, from an oatmeal-forward option that will take you to peanut butter heaven to a coffee-infused concoction perfect for those who need a caffeine boost. Read on to get inspired!
Struggling With Sleep? This Rechargeable Sound Machine Is A Total Game-Changer
1. Peanut Butter Oatmeal Smoothie
Love peanut butter? You're in luck! We found a smoothie recipe that delivers all the flavor of this delicious ingredient and helps you burn fat at the same time. Combine this beloved cabinet staple with some oatmeal, banana, and, of course, protein powder, and you've got yourself the perfect protein-packed smoothie to start your day with. Yum!
Ingredients: 1/4 cup old fashioned rolled oats or quick oats; 1/2 banana, sliced and frozen; 3/4 cup almond milk, unsweetened; 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter; 1 scoop vanilla protein powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of cayenne pepper; Pinch of sea salt; 5 drops liquid stevia (optional)
2. Berry Bean Smoothie
Although beans are packed with protein, you likely would never think of throwing them into your morning smoothie. However, this recipe incorporates them flawlessly—and deliciously! That's right, you can put beans, banana, and berries into a blender and end up with a great-tasting meal that's sure to pack a punch of protein and help you burn fat throughout the day. Trust us!
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, 1 cup blueberries, 1 banana, frozen; 1/2 cup white beans; 1/2 cup soy milk; 1 cup cauliflower, frozen; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 scoop vegan protein powder
3. Blueberry kale smoothie
Blueberry and kale may sound like an unlikely pair, but when you put them together in this perfect morning smoothie, they create a powerhouse of filling protein and killer antioxidants. This recipe isn't only delicious, but it's filling enough to kick any unhealthy cravings to the curb and keep you energized throughout the day. Of course, it's great for weight loss, but it also offers additional health benefits like reduced inflammation, lower cholesterol, better bone health, and more. Love it!
Ingredients: 1/2 banana; 1/2 cup chopped kale; 1/2 cup blueberries; 1/2 cup plain low-fat yogurt; 1 scoop protein powder; 1 tablespoon flax seed meal; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; ice
4. Coffee Protein Smoothie
If you drink coffee every morning, this recipe offers a fantastic way to get your daily fix while also providing ample nutrition to aid in weight loss. It's genius! Peanut butter, flax seeds, and powder offer all the protein you need to jumpstart your morning, while a bit of coffee adds the perfect pick-me-up to take on the day. Plus, there's no added sugar, so can have peace of mind knowing your sweet tooth will be satisfied without any guilt.
Ingredients: 1 cup cold brewed coffee; 1/2 cup milk; 1 banana; 1 tablespoon peanut butter; 1 tablespoon ground flax seeds; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
