Post workout smoothies are typically made with whey based protein powder, which is a no-go for vegans or those avoiding dairy since it is a byproduct of the cheese-making process. Recently, there have been a lot more options appearing on the market that are appropriate for athletes following an animal or dairy-free diet.
Clean, Sensitive Pea Protein
NuZest makes a Clean Lean Protein which is vegan and paleo friendly. The protein source in Clean Lean Protein is derived from golden peas, a type of field pea, which are naturally higher in protein than green sweet peas (the type mostly found in gardens and supermarkets). These golden peas have been dried, condensed (to remove some of the fiber and starch), and then turned into fine powder.
Pea protein is ideal for any person who has soy sensitivities or for those who can’t tolerate dairy. Pea protein is easy on your digestive system and won’t cause bloating, making it an easy source of protein to add into post-workout smoothies.
What I also like about the NuZest protein powders is the clean ingredient list. There are no artificial flavors and no preservatives. The sweetener that is used is katemfe fruit extract and leaves little to no aftertaste. The lack of weird aftertaste, common with many other non-sugar sweeteners, is a huge win for me.
The following smoothie recipes all use Clean Lean Protein to which I’ve added at least one other protein source, and either a fruit or a vegetable for increased nutritional value. If you aren’t vegan and do tolerate dairy, these are all wonderful with a touch of plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese blended in as well.
Blueberry Blitz Protein Shake
Calories: 345, Protein 29g, Carbs 36g, Fat 10g
Prep time: 5 min
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 2 scoops NuZest Clean Lean Protein powder in smooth vanilla flavor
- ¼ cup cooked gluten free oats, cooled
- 1 tablespoon hemp seed
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 to 1 ½ cups cold almond milk to desired consistency
- Optional: a touch of honey/maple syrup to taste for added sweetness (nutritional info above does not include this)
Preparation Instructions:
- Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
Chocolate Mint Protein Shake
Calories 243, Protein 27g, Carbs 11g, Fat 11g
Prep time: 5 min
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 2 scoops NuZest Clean Lean Protein powder in rich chocolate flavor
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped mint (about 6-8 leaves) or use up to ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (or can use any other non-dairy milk)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Preparation Instructions:
- Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
Note: If you don’t drink this one immediately, it will become thicker due to the chia seeds. Add more liquid to thin it down if it becomes too thick.
Tropical Vanilla Nut Smoothie
Calories 375, Protein 27g, Carbs 31g, Fat 18g
Prep time: 5 min
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 2 scoops NuZest Clean Lean Protein powder in smooth vanilla flavor
- 1 tablespoon almond, cashew, or macadamia nut butter
- ½ cup fresh pineapple chunks
- ½ banana
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut or almond milk
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut for garnish
Preparation Instructions:
- Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
More smoothie ideas to shake up your routine:
