There are so many protein powders on the market these days and everyone has their opinions on whey vs. plant-based, flavor, protein content, sugar content, etc. One thing we’re partial to is a protein that tastes delicious, doesn’t have that chalky texture and is derived from clean, non-GMO water washed soy like this one. Whatever protein powder you may use, sometimes you need to find creative ways to use it up and add some nutrition-packed snacks and meals to your busy week. Less empty calories, more nourishing sustenance. Here are the ways we like to use our protein powder:
Good Old Fashioned Smoothies
If you’re going with vanilla, you can really throw anything in the blender and it’ll taste great. We have had this smoothie recipe on repeat this summer. Depending on our hunger levels, we’ll sometimes pour it into a bowl and toss some Pure Elizabeth granola on top to make it a smoothie bowl.
Tropical Green Smoothie
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
2 handfuls fresh spinach/kale
½ cup frozen strawberries
½ cup frozen mango
1 tablespoon chia seeds
Dash of cinnamon
Unsweetened coconut milk (enough to get things moving)
Energy Bites
These are the best things ever. Have an early morning workout and need a bite? Pop an energy bite. Afternoon sugar craving? Energy bite. Dessert after dinner? Energy bite. You can really mix and match these depending on what flavor protein you have and what kinds of nut butters you enjoy. Here’s one of our faves:
Vanilla Almond Energy Bites
1/3 cup almond butter
1/3 cup honey
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
Dash of cinnamon
Mix almond butter and honey in a small mixing bowl. Add protein powder. Roll into small balls and place in refrigerator. Add oats, chocolate chips, unsweetened coconut flakes and/or Maldon sea salt flakes if you’re feelin’ crazy!
Overnight Oats
If you haven’t noticed, we’re kind of obsessed.
Vanilla Overnight Oats
1/2 cup rolled oats
1 teaspoon chia seeds
1/2 cup unsweetened almond/coco milk
1/3 scoop vanilla protein powder
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 handful fresh blueberries (or fruit of choice)
Mix in small bowl or mason jar and store in fridge overnight. Before enjoying, add a splash of non-dairy milk if it’s too thick and top with granola, pumpkin seeds, almonds, sliced fruit, almond butter, peanut butter, chocolate chips, etc.
Protein Pancakes
Feels like a treat, but fuels your body with the good stuff.
1 banana (ripe, mashed)
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
2 eggs
1 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp baking powder
Mash banana with a fork until smooth and creamy. Add to mixing bowl along with the rest of the ingredients. Whisk well until combined. Place a pan on the stove and spray with nonstick spray (we love the coconut oil spray from Trader Joes). Spoon batter onto pan, 2-3 tablespoons each depending on the size you’re going for. Let pancakes cook for 30 seconds on each side. Remove and serve with nut butter of choice, maple syrup, fruit, whatever you want!
Mug Cake
You can come up with several combinations, but we like to throw our chocolate protein powder in and top with peanut butter. Mmmmm that melty gooey goodness.
1 scoop of chocolate protein powder
1 tbsp cocoa powder
1 tbsp chocolate chips (we like Enjoy Life brand)
1/4-1/2 c Unsweetened Almond Milk or Coconut Milk
1/2 tsp baking powder
*Microwave for 45-60 seconds