Recipe: Berry Protein Smoothie Bowl

Start your day off right with this antioxidant-rich berry protein smoothie bowl. Frozen mixed berries and beets add a rich purple color and protein powder makes this smoothie bowl more satisfying.

This high protein smoothie bowl recipe is chock full of antioxidants, energizing nutrients and you guessed it, tummy-satisfying protein.

Before you freak out over the beets in this recipe – let me tell you that the flavor is very subtle. I love adding beets to smoothies, they not only add a beautiful purple color but more importantly a whole host of beneficial nutrients. 

Why this Smoothie Bowl is Good for You

• Beets contain anti-inflammatory pigments called betalains, which help combat chronic inflammation – a risk factor for heart disease and cancer. They are also particularly good for your heart since they are high in plant-based nitrates which can lower blood pressure. 
• Berries pack a punch of sweetness with natural sugar and fiber to leave you feeling energized and full. If you’re trying to quit sugar, this might be a great option for you!
• The protein powder adds 20 grams of protein which aids in muscle rebuilding, leaving you feeling powerful after a workout. Women need more protein as they age, and this is a great way to get it!

What is the Difference Between a Smoothie and a Smoothie Bowl?

Smoothies and smoothie bowls have the same ingredients, but a smoothie bowl is much thicker than a traditional smoothie so it’s enjoyed with a spoon out of a bowl like ice cream.

One thing I love about smoothie bowls is that you can add a variety of your favorite healthy toppings. Yum!

Ingredients for Protein Smoothie Bowl

These simple, fresh ingredients make up my delicious protein-packed smoothie bowl.

• Frozen Mixed Berries: one key to making a good smoothie bowl is to make sure you are adding frozen ingredients so that it is thick enough to be served in a bowl. I love to use frozen mixed berries as the base of this smoothie bowl. Berries are also a great anti-inflammatory food!
• Frozen Beets: boost your veggie intake for the day by incorporating beets in your smoothie bowl. I love that they are packed with nutrients and they are slightly sweet which works well in smoothies. Some stores carry frozen sliced beets – but if you can’t find them, use raw beets (peeled and chopped) or roasted beets (peeled and chopped). Not sold? Explore the amazing health benefits from beets.
• Vanilla Protein Powder: use your favorite protein powder for these bowls. I usually reach for vanilla, but feel free to experiment with another protein powder flavor. For a vegan version of this recipe, use a plant-based vegan protein powder. 
• Almond Milk: a little milk is needed to help the smoothie blend better. I like to use unsweetened almond milk in our smoothies, but you can substitute with your preferred milk of choice (dairy, soy milk, oat milk, cashew milk).
• Ice: creates a super thick smoothie bowl so that it can be enjoyed with a spoon like soft serve. 

Variations

Use Different Fruit: instead of mixed berries, you can use a single berry like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. Although the color will change slightly, you can use other frozen fruit in your smoothie bowl like mango, pineapple, acai, dragon fruit, or peaches.  

Try Another Veggie: if you don’t have beets on hand – you can substitute with another frozen veggie. I like to use frozen cauliflower rice or frozen zucchini instead.

Make it Sweeter: feel free to add 1-2 tablespoons of honey, maple syrup, or agave to sweeten your smoothie. You could also add sweetness to these creamy smoothie bowls with 1-2 medjool dates. 

Add Frozen Banana: for a sweeter smoothie bowl, use 1/2 frozen banana in place of 1/2 cup of the ice.

How to Make a Protein Smoothie Bowl

Follow these simple instructions to make your new favorite breakfast!

Just like a regular smoothie, these delicious smoothie bowls are quick and easy to whip up with just a few simple ingredients.

Blend: Add the berries, beets, protein powder, 1 cup of the ice, and milk to a high-speed blender. Start on low speed and gradually increase speed and the ingredients start to mix. Use a blender tamper to push the ingredients down onto the blade. Add another ½ ice after the smoothie starts to blend. If too thick, add almond milk 1 tablespoon at a time until desired creamy texture is reached.

Add Toppings: transfer the smoothie to a bowl and top with your choice of toppings like nuts, granola, coconut flakes, chia seeds, hemp seeds, berries, bananas, nut butter, and more. 

Recommended Tools for this Recipe

• High Speed Blender
• Blender Tamper

Topping Suggestions

Part of the fun of serving your smoothie in a bowl rather than a glass is that you can add toppings. Here are some of our favorite toppings: 

• Chia seeds, flaxseeds, hemp seeds, or pumpkin seeds
• Melted peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter
• Fresh berries, fresh bananas
• Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, peanuts)
• Granola
• Cereal
• Coconut flakes

If you want more healthy smoothie recipes, check out my list of my favorite smoothie recipes for weight loss. It’s filled with delicious and creative smoothies that are super easy to make!