Chocolate Cherry Protein Smoothie

Total Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen tart cherries 
• 1/2 banana (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (or raw cacao)
• 1/2 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp almond butter (or peanut butter)
• 1 cup unsweetened soymilk (or low-fat dairy milk)
• 1 tbsp chia seeds

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a blender.
2. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

Tips:

• Add spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients that won’t affect flavor
• Use frozen banana and cherries for a thicker, milkshake-like texture
• If you want sweeter, add a drizzle of honey or 1 Medjool date 
• You can swap out the Greek yogurt and cocoa powder for a chocolate protein powder. Keep in mind, this will alter the nutrition facts depending on the protein powder you use

Why We Love This Recipe:

1. Rich in Antioxidants:

Cherries, especially tart cherries, are high in the antioxidant anthocyanins and vitamin C, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Cacao or dark chocolate adds favanols which support the heart by lowering blood pressure. They also help the brain with memory and focus.

2. Muscle Recovery and Repair: 

Protein helps repair muscle tissue after workouts and supports lean muscle growth. Tart cherries have been shown to help reduce muscle soreness and speed up recovery time after intense exercise

3. Energy and Satiety:

The combination of protein, carbohydrates from fruit, and healthy fats from nut butter and chia seeds provides sustained energy and keeps you full longer.