Energizer Chocolate Cherry Protein Shake

Jenna Mueller, RD2B (Dietitian to be)

This is the perfect afternoon pick me up in one shake! This smoothie provides you with optimal protein, carbs, fats, and a little bit of caffeine to keep you going.

Do you ever start to feel sluggish and tired toward the late afternoon? Or maybe you need a pick me up after your morning workout? If so, this smoothie is perfect for you! Not only will this smoothie provide you with enough complete protein to boost muscle protein synthesis after a tough workout, it is also loaded with antioxidants from fruits and hidden veggies to keep your body happy and healthy. Not to mention, this smoothie also contains caffeine to keep you energized!

Smoothies are one of my favorite ways incorporate more protein and fiber into my diet, while also getting my daily intake of veggies in. It is so easy to sneak veggies like frozen riced cauliflower and spinach into a smoothie because you can't even taste it. Sometimes I even add cucumber or celery. Frozen veggies can also increase the volume of your smoothie instead of just adding ice.

Adding coffee beans into my smoothies has been one of the best ways to save time and money for an on-the-go breakfast option. It is basically a two in one coffee and breakfast! Instead of buying a sugary Starbucks drink when you are out and about, you can make this smoothie to take with you in the car when you are in a pinch for time.

Dark red sweet cherries are one of my favorite fruits because they are the perfect amount of sweetness to add to a smoothie or even to eat as a snack. I specifically love the frozen ones from Trader Joes, which is what I used for this smoothie recipe.

Benefits of Sweet Dark Red Cherries

Dark red cherries are packed full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Specifically, they are an excellent source of vitamin C and potassium, and also contain B vitamins, manganese, copper, magnesium, and vitamin K. They also contain polyphenols, which may protect against chronic diseases, fight cellular damage, and reduce inflammation. Dark red cherries also contain carotenoid pigments like beta-carotene, which also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Makes: 1 serving

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Serving Size: 1 smoothie

Ingredients in Energizer Chocolate Cherry Protein Shake:

• 1 cup dark red sweet frozen cherries

• 1 cup frozen riced cauliflower

• 1 handful of spinach (fresh or frozen)

• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (I use Orgain Protein or chocolate collagen, but any works!)

• 1/2 banana (fresh or frozen)

• 1 tbsp peanut butter

• 1 tablespoon whole coffee beans (about 60 mg caffeine = 1 shot of espresso)

• 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk

• 1 teaspoon chia seeds

• 1 teaspoon unsweetened cacao nibs* (for toppings)

• 1 teaspoon hemp hearts* (for toppings)

* optional

Directions for Energizer Chocolate Cherry Protein Shake:

1. Add cherries, banana, riced cauliflower, spinach, and peanut butter to the blender.

2. Add the scoop of protein powder on top of these ingredients.

3. Add the almond milk to the blender (you can add more if needed for your desired consistency).

4. If you want the smoothie to be thicker, add a few cubes of ice.

5. Blend until it is a smooth consistency.

6. Add cacao nibs and hemp hearts to the top of the smoothie and enjoy!

Nutrition Information for Energizer Chocolate Cherry Protein Shake: (Calculated on MyMenu TRACK powered by Cronometer Gold)

Jenna Mueller, graduate student at San Diego State University, pursuing her dual masters' degrees in exercise physiology and nutritional sciences. "My goal is to become a Registered Dietitian after completing my masters from San Diego State. I am passionate about all things health, wellness, and fitness related and hope to one day work in the field of Sports Nutrition. Growing up as a dancer, I have come to understand the need for proper fueling and the importance of vitamins and nutrients that come from our food, and would love to help others discover this as well."