Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Protein Smoothie: No Powder, No Banana Needed


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 5 minutes (plus marinating time if desired)
  • Yield: 1-2 servings

Description

This Protein Smoothie is a creamy, satisfying drink that uses real, whole ingredients like Greek yogurt, oats, and nut butter to pack in protein without the need for protein powder or bananas. Customize it with flavors like chocolate peanut butter, berry bliss, or tropical escape to create a delicious and healthy smoothie that fuels your day.


Ingredients

Base (Serves 1-2):

1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for the best texture)

½ cup rolled oats (old-fashioned, not instant)

2 tablespoons almond butter (or peanut butter, or any nut/seed butter)

1 cup milk of choice (whole milk, almond, oat—whatever you prefer)

2 tablespoons chia seeds (protein powerhouse!)

1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (optional, but adds protein and omega-3s)

Flavor Options (Pick One or Combine!):

Chocolate Peanut Butter Dreams:

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of sea salt

Berry Bliss:

1 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)

1 tablespoon honey

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Squeeze of lemon juice

Tropical Escape:

½ cup frozen mango chunks

¼ cup coconut milk (the canned stuff, not the carton)

1 tablespoon shredded coconut

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon honey

Coffee Shop Vibes:

½ cup cold brew coffee (or 1 shot espresso, cooled)

1 tablespoon cocoa powder

1 tablespoon maple syrup

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of cinnamon

Green Goddess:

1 cup fresh spinach (trust me, you won’t taste it)

½ avocado (for creaminess and healthy fats)

½ cup frozen pineapple chunks

1 tablespoon honey

Juice of ½ lime


Instructions

  • The Night Before (If Meal Prepping):

    • Soak the oats in a little milk or water overnight for smoother blending and easier digestion (optional but highly recommended).

    • You can also soak chia seeds overnight in a splash of milk to allow them to absorb liquid and blend in perfectly.

    Morning Of (5 Minutes Max):

    1. Add the liquids first (milk or any juice) into your blender, followed by Greek yogurt, nut butter, oats, chia seeds, and any flavor add-ins you’re using.

    2. Blend on high for 60-90 seconds. Ensure the oats are fully pulverized, and everything is smooth.

    3. If needed, stop and scrape down the sides of the blender, then blend again for another 30 seconds.

    4. Taste and adjust: need more sweetness? Add more honey. Want it thinner? Add more milk. Want it thicker? Add more yogurt or oats.

    5. Pour into your favorite glass or travel mug and enjoy!

    Pro Tips:

    • If your blender is struggling with the oats, you can soak them first or use oat flour (about ⅓ cup).

    • Frozen fruit is your best friend for thickness and coldness without watering the smoothie down with ice.

    • Make it the night before and let it thicken and get even more flavorful by morning. If it’s too thick overnight, just stir in a little more milk to loosen it up.

Notes

No Protein Powder: This smoothie gets its protein from real ingredients like Greek yogurt, nut butter, oats, and chia seeds.

Customize the Flavor: Choose from chocolate peanut butter, berry bliss, tropical escape, or coffee shop vibes based on your taste preferences.

Meal Prep: Prepare smoothie packs the night before by portioning out the ingredients (except liquids) into freezer bags for a quick, grab-and-go option.

Lactose-Free: Use plant-based yogurt and milk if you need a dairy-free version.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Smoothies, Healthy Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American