Over this past few weeks I’ve had some requests to share more smoothie recipes. Specifically the two that I’m always posting on Snapchat for breakfast, “The Usual” (coming soon!) and this protein packed backup. I like to alternate between the two depending on the mood I’m in and what my day entails. Keeping a variety is important to me and I avoid getting burnt out on a specific combo by not having it every single day. It’s nice to mix it up sometimes, literally.
When you think of protein powder you might jump to the thought of gritty or chalky flavor. I’m happy to share that most vegan protein mixes have come a long way. There are numerous options to choose from, I know I’ve talked about a couple on my Top Vitacost Must-Haves post. You all know I’m a fan of chocolate flavored powders, but I do change it up and incorporate other blends into my diet. When I’m wanting to bulk up my smoothie and make it more filling, I love to use the Hemp Protein Mix from Vitacost. It’s neutral enough in flavor to not overpower what I add it to and it only contains organic ingredients (which is a huge bonus).
Is a protein supplement needed? Absolutely not. Protein can be found in most plant-based foods, from greens to grains. However, it’s easier for me to supplement when I’m not able to eat a variety of foods. I also wait a few hours before lunch so I bulk up my breakfast smoothie for convenience. It allows me to get more work done without having to destroy the kitchen cooking, not because cooking is a mess but I personally feel the need to use every pot and/or pan when I’m making a single meal for myself. Seriously. You should see my kitchen after recipe testing, it’s truly a nightmare. But smoothies remedy this little problem of mine and I genuinely feel my best starting the day off this way.
If you’re looking for a quick and simple vegan option for breakfast, I highly recommend blending up a smoothie to go. It’s time efficient, no mess and easy on your digestion. Sticking with a raw meal to start off the day keeps me more energized for even longer throughout the day and my digestion has never been better!
Vegan Hemp Protein Smoothie
Prep
Total
Yield 4 cups
Start the morning off right with a tall glass of plant-based goodness! Packed full of vegan protein, keeping you fuller for longer and fueled to tackle the day.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp Vitacost Hemp Protein Mix
- Non-Dairy Milk, to blend (about 1 cup)
- 3 large Bananas, peeled & frozen overnight (3+ cups)
- 1 cup Spinach, lightly packed
- 1 1/2 tbsp Cacao or Cocoa Powder
- 1 tbsp Vitacost Almond Butter*
Instructions
- Measure and blend all ingredients at a high-speed until smooth. Adjusting liquid as needed, to desired consistency. If you have a low-speed blender, I recommend adding the spinach and non-dairy milk first. Blend those until no chunks are left, then add everything else.
- Serve immediately, or pour into ice cube trays to blend with other smoothies as a smoothie starter.
Notes
Feel free to include additional superfoods, like chia or pumpkin seeds. You can replace half of the banana for ice if you would like a lower calorie option that's also less natural sugar. Adjust the liquid as needed, to desired consistency. For a lower fat and lower calorie option, replace Vitacost's almond butter with their peanut butter slim (powdered peanut butter). It's the same amount of protein per serving as well (2 tbsp).
Courses Smoothie, Breakfast
Cuisine Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size about 2 cups
Amount Per Serving | ||
|---|---|---|
Calories 322 | ||
% Daily Value | ||
Total Fat 8 g | 12% | |
Saturated Fat 1.5 g | 8% | |
Sodium 106 mg | 4% | |
Total Carbohydrates 52 g | 17% | |
Dietary Fiber 14 g | 56% | |
Sugars 23 g | ||
Protein 10 g | 20% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Looks so delicious! 🙂 And I really like your photo set-up, Margaret.
Thanks so much, Jan! <3
I’ve been all about smoothies for meals lately…easy clean up! I’ll have to add this protein powder to my next Vitacost order! This sounds so simple and satisfying – thanks for sharing! <3
They truly are the easiest way to get in all your needed nutrients! You’ll have to let me know what you think, if you give it a try. Thanks for the love! <3
I love hemp. I make a vegan hemp oil pancake and it is delicious!
That sounds delicious!