High Protein Almond Milk Smoothie

This smoothie makes use of both almond milk and almond butter to give it a delicious nutty flavor. Although it’s not as colorful as some other smoothies, with one sip you will be hooked. It tastes like a special treat, one that you get to have for breakfast.

Almond milk is a great lactose-free substitute for dairy milk. Anyone, not just those who have difficulty digesting cow’s milk, can make their own almond milk right at home. To make the ‘milk’ almonds are finely ground, blended with water, then filtered through a strainer. I highly suggest trying it for yourself; it’s also cheaper than buying almond milk at the store (and tastes better).

Almond milk contains no cholesterol, is lighter on calories and has a nuttier taste than soy or dairy milk. It does not, however, contain as much protein or calcium as cow’s milk. So it is not a direct substitute for cow’s milk in a diet – be sure to supplement your diet with protein elsewhere.

Almond milk does provide a high amount of vitamin D and vitamin E. Vitamin D helps your body to use calcium to build strong bones, therefore reducing your risk for arthritis and osteoporosis. The antioxidant properties of vitamin E play a role in promoting heart health and protecting your skin against sun damage.

Just a note: if you do buy almond milk from the store, try to avoid brands that include the ingredient carrageenan. Concerns have been raised about this particular additive, used as a stabilizer and thickener, because of its potentially harmful affects on the digestive system. All the more reason to make your own almond milk!

This dairy-free smoothie will be one that you start to crave; it is just that simple and delicious.

Ingredients

1/2 cup almond milk
1 frozen banana
2 tbsp almond butter
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Dash of honey
Pinch of ground nutmeg
1/2 cup ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a large cup (if using an immersion blender) or a blender, combine ingredients and blend until smooth. Add more almond milk if necessary to reach desired consistency. Serve immediately.

The following two tabs change content below.

• Bio
• Latest Posts

Rebecca Bohl

Rebecca Bohl is a recipe developer and food photographer based in Washington, D.C. She likes to share recipes that are based on natural, unprocessed foods. Rebecca loves to come up with new combinations to create healthy, tasty smoothies that can be enjoyed every day.

Latest posts by Rebecca Bohl (see all)

• Beautifully Simple Banana Smoothie - May 29, 2015
• Mean Lean Apple Cinnamon Smoothie - May 29, 2015
• Protein-Rich Post-Workout Smoothie - May 22, 2015