Smoothies are such a great way to pack in a lot of nutrition, use up leftover produce in the fridge, and have a flavorful satisfying meal on the run. After the launch of our Parker’s™ Plant-Based Protein Smoothie Mix, I felt inspired to create my own twist on tasty smoothies. I wanted to develop a smoothie recipe that showcases the power of fruits and vegetables and how these ingredients work together to make a delicious beverage. This smoothie recipe packs a punch, full of sustainable nutrition that works as a fantastic meal replacement to keep you nourished until your next meal.
I selected a banana and almond milk to create the perfect base—ingredients you can find in any grocery store that make a suitable smoothie base for any flavor. A little liquid in a smoothie formulation makes it easier to blend all the other ingredients in the formulation, while banana provides some body and texture. Next, I added blueberries for their sweet tart flavor and antioxidant power. Kale (my favorite leafy green) adds a serving of vegetables and several vitamins and minerals. Avocado adds healthy saturated fats and a creamy texture. A touch of cinnamon adds a little flavor and research suggests cinnamon may help with blood glucose management. And of course Parker’s adds 20 g of plant-based protein, perfect for vegans and fits squarely in current consumer concerns about sustainability.
The Ingredient Doc’s “Ph.D. Pick” Power Smoothie with Parker’s™ Plant-Based Protein Smoothie Mix
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 packet Parker’s™ Plant-Based Quad Protein Smoothie, vanilla flavor
- 1 cup chopped kale
- 1 banana
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/2 avocado
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
Add all ingredients into blender and blend until smooth. For a sweeter taste, use vanilla flavored almond milk or add a drizzle of honey.
Each smoothie (prepared as written) contains 478 calories, 25 g protein, 19 g fat, 30 g sugar, and 17 g of fiber. It also provides approximately half of the daily value (assuming a 2,000 calorie diet) for calcium, iron, and vitamin C, and over 25% of the daily value for folate.
What is your favorite smoothie ingredient?