Mango Protein Smoothie

This mango protein smoothie is ultra-creamy and packed with 22 grams of protein. It’s easy to customize and makes a filling on-the-go breakfast in 5 minutes.

Why You’ll Love it:

I’m mad about mango! It’s nectarously sweet flesh and sunny hue make my tastebuds leap for joy. It’s great in smoothies, specifically this mango protein smoothie!

• Filling breakfast: A diet rich in protein helps you feel full for a long period of time! It can help reduce pesky, unhealthy snack cravings.
• Customizable: I used vanilla protein powder to up the protein content, but you don’t have to. You can omit it and use Greek yogurt instead.
• Delicious: It’s a sweet, creamy delight!

I’ve included a list of protein-rich ingredients to add to your smoothies. There’s plenty of options, even without protein powder.

Key Ingredients:

• Banana – Bananas add natural sweetness and creaminess. It’s best to use a yellow, ripe banana. When a banana ripens, its starch converts to natural sugars, making it sweeter.
• Frozen mango chunks – Mangoes are a good source of immune-boosting vitamin C and fiber! I buy a big bag of frozen mango chunks at Costco so I never run out.
• Vanilla protein powder – For a boost of protein! You can use plant-based protein or a whey protein blend. I don’t recommend 100% whey protein because it gets too foamy in the blender! Some people find it hard to digest.
• Almond milk – My favorite plant-based liquid base! It’s mild in flavor and low in calories.
• Lime juice – Citrus accentuates the sweetness of the mango! You can also swap half of the almond milk with orange juice if desired.

How to Make a Mango Protein Smoothie:

This mango vanilla protein smoothie is a summer breeze to make! Here’s what you need to do:

• Combine ingredients: In a blender’s pitcher, combine the banana, frozen mango chunks, vanilla protein, almond milk, and lime juice.
  • Tip: Add the banana first! It gives the blades something to catch and reduces stalling.

• Blend: Start your blender on low speed, then increase the speed to high. Blend until smooth and creamy.
• Adjust: I had to add extra almond milk to thin it out a bit. It should be thick but pourable! Nobody likes a watery smoothie.
• Pour: Pour into glasses and enjoy immediately! Or pour it into a vacuum insulated cup and take it to-go.

Ways to Add Protein to Smoothies:

Protein powder isn’t the only way to add protein to smoothies! Here’s some more options for you:

• Greek yogurt – Add 1/3 cup of Greek yogurt for 8 grams of protein!
• Cottage cheese – Add 1/3 cup for 9 grams of protein.
• Seeds – Chia, flax, and hemp seeds all add plant-based protein! One tablespoon of hemp hearts add an extra 3 grams of protein.
• Nuts – Sliced almonds are my favorite! Pistachios, walnuts, and cashews are great too.
• Nut butter – A two tablespoon serving of peanut butter provides 8 grams.
• Peanut butter powder – For extra protein without as much fat as regular PB.
• Soy milk – One 8-ounce serving of soy milk provides the same amount as dairy milk.
• Milk – Milk boasts 8 grams of protein per cup!

Recipe Tips:

• Use frozen fruit for the right consistency. Mango is 83% water, which means fresh mango turns into pulpy juice when blended.
• Add the soft ingredients to the blender first. It’s easier on the your blender’s blades and motor.
• Add more liquid if needed. Mine needed a splash more milk to reach a pourable consistency.
• For a tangier smoothie, use orange juice! I like to use a combo of almond milk and orange juice when I want a tangier drink.

Mango Protein Smoothie for Kids:

If you want to make this protein smoothie for your kiddos WITHOUT protein powder, swap the protein powder with 1/3 cup of vanilla Greek yogurt and the almond milk for soy or regular milk.

Variations:

• Juice – Swap half or all of the almond milk with orange juice. Orange juice creates a tangier smoothie!
• Milk – Swap the almond milk with soy milk for extra protein!
• Greens – Add a handful of baby spinach for a boost of iron and micronutrients.
• Fruit – Swap half of the mango chunks with frozen strawberries, pineapple, or berries!
• Vegan – To make this recipe dairy-free and vegan, use plant-based protein powder.

Storage:

Smoothies are best enjoyed fresh and frosty cold. It only takes 5 minutes to make so I recommend making it when you plan to drink it.

If you want to make it ahead of time, you can pour it into a vacuum insulated cup, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Protein Smoothie Recipes:

• Strawberry Protein Hemp Seed Smoothie
• Pear Banana Protein Smoothie
• Vanilla Smoothie
• Strawberry Cottage Cheese Smoothie
• Panera Mango Smoothie Copycat
• Banana Protein Smoothie