11 Jul Choc Protein Smoothie

This Choc Protein Smoothie recipe was made by, Jess Kotlowitz, The Green Dietician.

This recipe makes use of pea protein powder which is essentially a protein supplement. Even though a balanced plant-based diet provides plenty of protein and protein supplements are totally not necessary, they can be a convenient way to get more protein in for people who don’t have time to cook or who don’t love their beans, legumes and soya products. They can also help turn a basic smoothie into a balanced meal and can help to keep one fuller for longer, which is especially important when trying to manage your weight. Because of it’s protein content, along with all those good carbs and electrolytes from the banana and of course, the water for hydration this smoothie makes for the perfect post-workout recovery drink and is guaranteed to satisfy any chocolate craving you may have!

For my patients on calorie-controlled meal plans:

This whole recipe =

• 1 fruit serving
• 1 fat serving
• 1 protein/ legume serving

SERVES 1

INGREDIENTS

• 1 frozen banana*
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder**
• 1 x 20g scoop pea/ hemp protein powder (my favourite brand is Lifematrix)
• 2 tsp peanut or almond butter
• 1 handful of ice
• Water to desired consistency
• Optional: 1 tsp xylitol or 2 pitted dates if you prefer a sweeter taste
• Try: 1/4 tsp sea salt for a salted chocolate flavour. The salt is great for replacing sodium after a workout!

METHOD

1. Add all your ingredients to a high-powered blender or nutribullet and blend until smooth. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add more water and continue blending until you get your desired consistency.

Notes:

* To freeze bananas, peel your ripe bananas and cut them in half, then put them in a sealed bag and place in the freezer overnight. Frozen bananas will keep in your freezer for 3 months and can be added straight into smoothies for a creamy rich consistency.

** Make sure to use cocoa powder not cacao powder. Cacao powder is much more bitter and will not have the same effect.