Photo: Kowalski’s Markets
Homemade protein shakes can be a great way to add a little nutrition to your diet, but they often fall flat when it comes to flavor and texture. To make protein shakes more flavorful and interesting, vary the liquid base, incorporate healthy ingredients for texture and added nutrition and experiment with flavor enhancers. This recipe for a Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie (Find it at woodburymag.com.) offers 25g of protein per serving—with no added sugar—and tastes great, for these key reasons:
- A smooth, nutty liquid base: Unsweetened almond milk enhances flavor and adds creamy texture.
- Nutritious, naturally sweet and creamy fruit: Frozen bananas add natural sweetness and create a creamy, milkshake-like texture while adding extra nutrients and fiber.
- Healthy fats and luxurious textures: Peanut butter adds a nutty, rich flavor and extra protein, plus healthy fats to keep you feeling full longer. Cashew and almond butter would work just as well.
- Well-selected flavor enhancers: Unsweetened cocoa powder and a splash of vanilla bring depth and warmth.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie
Serves 1
- ¾ cup cold unsweetened almond milk
- 1 frozen banana, cut into chunks
- ¼ cup unsweetened whey protein powder*
- 2 tsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp Madagascar vanilla extract or paste
- 2 Tbsp. natural creamy peanut butter, plus more for serving
- chocolate shavings, optional
Combine all ingredients in a blender, in the order listed; blend until smooth. Serve topped with a drizzle of peanut butter, banana slices and chocolate shavings (optional).
*When a plant-based protein powder is used, this recipe is dairy-free and vegan.
Rachael Perron is the culinary and branding director for Kowalski’s Markets, where she specializes in product development and selection, culinary education and communications.
