Green Smoothie Protein Shake Recipe

A Natural Green Smoothie Shake with Protein 

Green smoothies are one of the most healthiest intakes that our body can get, but did you know that many recipes don't contain enough protein?  Here's a natural way to create a delicious green smoothie with extra fruit and vegetables that add up to the perfect protein amount that your body needs, using actual protein from Greek Yogurt (NO protein powders or isolate in this shake).  

INGREDIENTS

• - 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (30 calories)
• - 1/3 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• - 1 cup baby spinach (or) kale
• - 1 cup frozen banana slices (about 1 medium banana)
• - 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
• - 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• - 1-2 teaspoons agave (or) raw honey (optional, may be added as a natural sweetner)

PREPARATION

1. Add almond milk and yogurt to a blender, then add spinach, banana, pineapple, chia and sweetener (if using); blend until smooth.

Many of us don't get enough fruits and vegetables in our diet, and the ones that are really good for us -- such as leafy greens -- aren't something most of us eat on a regular basis.  Therefore, you may want to consider substituting a meal for this natural super food protein smoothie.  Your body will definitely thank you later. :) 

NUTRITION

Per serving: 297 calories; 6 g fat (1 g sat, 0 g mono); 4 mg cholesterol; 54 g carbohydrates; 0 g added sugars; 13 g protein; 10 g fiber; 145 mg sodium; 1038 mg potassium.

Nutrition Bonus: Vitamin C (102% daily value), Vitamin A (64% dv), Magnesium (31% dv), Calcium & Potassium (30% dv), Folate (28% dv)

Carbohydrate Servings: 3

Exchanges: 3 fruit, 1 lowfat milk, 1/2 fat

Recipe Source: http://www.eatingwell.com