Refreshing Spinach and Berry Protein Smoothie

Ingredients

- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 cup fizzy water
- 1/2 cup strawberry lemonade
- 1/2 cup ice cubes
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons sweetener (optional)
- 1 scoop protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)

Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Begin by washing the spinach leaves thoroughly, and pat them dry with a clean towel. Rinse the mixed berries and set them aside for blending.

2. Mix Chia Seed Base: In a small bowl, combine the chia seeds with 2 tablespoons of fizzy water. Stir well and let the seeds soak for about 5 minutes until they develop a gel-like consistency.

3. Combine Ingredients: Place the spinach, mixed berries, Greek yogurt, remaining fizzy water, strawberry lemonade, ice cubes, milk, and soaked chia seeds into a blender.

4. Add Sweetness and Protein: Add the sweetener along with the protein powder to the blender. This will enhance the flavor and nutritional value.

5. Blend Smoothie: Secure the lid on the blender and blend the mixture on high speed for approximately 2–3 minutes, or until the smoothie reaches a creamy and smooth texture.

6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the smoothie and add more sweetener if desired, blending again briefly to incorporate.

7. Serve: Pour the smoothie into glasses, and if you like, garnish with a slice of berry or a lemon twist on the rim for a visual touch.

8. Optional Step: Heat on the Stove: For an unconventional twist, you can briefly heat a portion of the smoothie on the stove over low heat until just warm (but not hot) for a comforting variation on cooler days.

Preparation & Cooking Times

- Preparation Time: PT10M
10 minutes

- Cooking Time (Optional for warm variation): PT5M
5 minutes

Total Time

- Total Time: PT15M
15 minutes

Type of Dish

Snack

Keywords

Smoothie, Protein, Spinach, Berries, Chia Seeds, Greek Yogurt, Refreshing, Healthy Drink, Quick Snack, Energizing

Recipe Yield

Feeds 4 adults

Calories

Total calories: 600

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