Banana Vanilla Protein Shake

As we all know, maintaining healthy eating goals can be challenging. Moderation is always key but so is great taste. How many times have you opted for the "healthier" choice and been disappointed with the the taste and texture? I cannot even begin to count the times I have had that experience especially when it comes to protein drinks. Some are just nasty - loaded with a granular texture and a wicked chalky aftertaste.

I make my own protein shakes and rarely buy pre-made. I just think homemade "anything" tastes better than store bought. This recipe for a Banana Vanilla Protein Shake puts prepackaged ones to shame.

A protein shake recipe on a baking blog?  I know, I get the disconnect but you see usually I would have posted a recipe like this on my other blog: A Baker's Journey on Low Carb but it isn't low carb given the banana ingredient. 

This recipe is too good not to share and I think it warrants a spot here on Lemon Drop for that very reason. After you try it you will agree !

Blueberry Peach Smoothie

Lunch crept up silently upon me today. I didn't even see it coming. And when it arrived I wanted something refreshing, easy to make and above all else, satisfying. I always have a variety fruit in the freezer and picked up a tub of Greek yogurt a few days ago. So obviously a smoothie came to mind.

This is a cinch to whip up. I use an immersion blender as it is convenient and makes for a quick clean up. All the ingredients get blended together right in your drinking glass!

For sweeteners, I like agave nectar or honey. Today was a day for honey. A tablespoon or two will do for a single serving but always taste as you go along adding a little at a time. Remember, you can always add more to taste but you cannot remove it if you accidentally make it too sweet!

Feel free to use any frozen fruits you like. I used blueberries and peaches which are a lovely flavor combination. If you like , toss in 1/2 a frozen banana too. It adds great flavor but also turns a smoothie very rich and creamy.

So why not whip one up right now?

RECIPE:

WHAT YOU NEED

1/4 cup frozen wild blueberries
1/2 cup frozen peaches
1/4 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
3/4 cup milk
1-2 tablespoons honey
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

MAKE IT

BLEND all ingredients together in a tall glass with your immersion blender until smooth.

You can add crushed ice too make it super frosty and thicken it even more.

ENJOY!