You don’t need protein powder to make a high protein smoothie. This Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Smoothie is high protein from whole food ingredients only and will keep you full for hours.
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There are so many plant-based options in order to make a filling protein smoothie, without having to rely on expensive protein powders.
I’m also not a big fan of the flavor of most protein powders. They usually just end up making my smoothie taste chalky. If you have a non-chalky tasting vegan protein brand you like, let me know in the comments!
I am able to still reach my protein needs without one so I don’t think they’re absolutely necessary, but if you struggle to get in enough calories or you’re short on time, I can see the appeal.
Here are some of my favorite protein sources for smoothies:
Nut butters – any kind of all-natural nut butter but typically almond butter and peanut butter are highest in regards to protein
Hemp seeds – out of the seeds, hemp has the highest protein (3.2g/tbsp)
Chia seeds – another good protein source but less protein compared to hemp seeds (1.7g/tbsp)
Flax seeds – not a lot of protein so I would recommend adding at least 2 tbsps if using (1.3g/tbsp)
Rolled oats – these provide not only extra protein (2.7g/.25 cup), but some extra fiber for that satiating effect
White beans – yes, even white beans which have a very mild taste, can be added to smoothies (4.6g/.25 cup)
As you can see, there are tons of options! The choice of milk will also play a factor too. I prefer soy milk because it contains a comparable amount of protein to cow’s milk.
Other flavor variations
I’m a big fan of the classic chocolate and peanut butter combo but you can make a high protein, whole foods smoothie with lots of different flavor profiles! I still recommend using soy milk and bananas as the base, then pick your protein, and add in your flavors.
Here are some ideas:
Chocolate Cherry – cocoa powder and frozen cherries
Berry Beet – frozen beets and berries (I have a recipe for this on my Instagram feed)
Tropical – frozen pineapple and kiwi
Mixed Berry – use blackberries and strawberries for a sweet treat
Really, the possibilities are endless for a filling and satiating smoothie. And trust me when I say filling—I was full for hours afterwards!
And if you’re looking for more high protein meals check out this Tofu Baked Vegan Pasta or this One-Pot Coconut Lentil Curry.
Easy, healthy, plant-fueled meals are my specialty. You can find all the tools you need to be successful on a plant-based diet with the Health My Lifestyle Meal Planner. It takes all the guesswork out of what to eat! Click here to check out it.
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Protein Smoothie
Method
- Blender
Ingredients
- 1 banana
- 1 cup soy milk or another higher protein non-dairy milk
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons all-natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 2 tablespoons hemp seeds
- 4 ice cubes
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Enjoy!
Nutrition
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Wow what a healthy and tasty smoothie. Reminds me of a candy but so satisfying.
Thanks, Roxana! Agreed, tastes so good yet is healthy—the best of both worlds 🙂