I am all about healthy eating, especially in the summer, when eating rich, fried, heavy foods just feels gross. I don't eat a ton of meat, so I'm also constantly thinking about getting enough protein in my diet. Recently, I've been reading a lot of good things about hemp protein (n.b. NOT the THC-tastic maryjane kind of hemp!!!) and have started incorporating it into my daily smoothie. Hemp protein tends to have a fairly nutty taste, which takes a bit of getting used to, so I've been experimenting with different combinations of fruit and mixers to find the right blend. After much experimentation, may I present: The Strawberry Banana Hemp Protein Smoothie
Ingredients:
1. 1 1/2 cups of strawberries (I use frozen organic strawberries)
2. 1/2 a large banana
3. 1 heaping tablespoon of hemp protein (I use Living Harvest Hemp Protein)
4. 1 1/2 cups of vanilla soy milk (I like Organic EdenSoy Vanilla Soy Milk)
5. 1 tablespoon of agave (I'm a fan of Wholesome Sweeteners' Organic Raw Blue Agave)
Combine ingredients in a blender and blend until...well, blended. The smoothie is going to come out a muddy mauve color, but don't let the color fool you; it's yummy!!! One serving of hemp protein is actually 4 tablespoons, but I'm working up to it. It's an acquired taste ;) But, when you can add a full serving to your daily diet, you're getting:
- all ten essential amino acids
- 9 grams of dietary fiber
- omega-3 & 6 essential fatty acids
- 13 grams of protein
- and it's a great source of iron and magnesium
Do you have a favorite hemp protein smoothie recipe? Feel free to share in the comments!
