Power Smoothie

I used to purchase this smoothie from a favorite coffee shop, Urban Bean, almost once a week. I decided it was about time to figure out exactly what was in it so that I could try to make it at home. So low and behold the Power Smoothie was born. I lightened it up a bit, but this smoothie is really meant to be a meal supplement—not a snack (if you know what I mean :). Fat, carbs, protein—good!  Enjoy!

Power Smoothie

1 medium banana

4 ice cubes

1 cup frozen strawberries

1 scoop whey/soy vanilla protein powder (recommended)*

2 Tbsp. creamy peanut butter, like Smart Balance with omega-3s

½ cup Power Yogurt or other non-fat vanilla yogurt

1 cup skim or soy milk

Load your blender in the order listed above, but only add about 2/3s of the milk. Then add more if needed to bring it to your desired consistency. If you would like to substitute fresh strawberries decrease the milk more so it isn’t too runny.

Power Yogurt

I hardly ever buy vanilla yogurt anymore, so I created this yogurt using the greek yogurt I already have in my fridge. If you like your yogurt a little sweeter you can add more agave nectar. Agave nectar is a low-glycemic sugar and has a little darker flavor, like brown sugar. I really enjoy it! You can substitute maple syrup if you don’t have any agave.

1 cup non-fat plain greek yogurt

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 Tbsp agave nectar or maple syrup

Mix it up with a rubber scraper. Taste and add more sweetener if desired. Sweetness without the calories? Try a pinch of cinnamon, too!

*I used my favorite vanilla protein powder: Biochem 100% Whey Protein Powder—natural flavor. 22grams of protein and 90 calories and 0grams sugar (because it is sweetened with REAL vanilla!) It blends up very smooth—no chalky aftertaste. It is also wheat and gluten-free! 

Hope this keeps you full and happy! 

-Nikki