Creamy Clementine Protein Smoothies (Cutie Smoothie)

This smoothie is a delicious way to get protein, vitamin C, healthy fats, and fiber! Think old school Orange Julius, but healthy. Mandarin oranges (like the brand Cuties) are plentiful all year round, so pick up a bag and make one of these nourishing smoothies to perk up your day!

Ingredient Notes:

1. You can freeze your mandarins for a thicker and creamier smoothie. If you do, you can omit the ice and add a little more liquid.

2. For the coconut milk, the kind sold in the can will give you the creamiest, richest result. Just look for one that doesn't have added gums or stabilizers. This is one of my favorites. You can also use a non-dairy milk like almond for a lighter smoothie. For an even lighter, more refreshing option, use coconut water instead of the non-dairy milk.

3. For the protein powder, I like to use a plain, unflavored whey protein like this. You can also use a vanilla protein powder, which usually has stevia in it, so you should not need the honey/date syrup and you can omit the vanilla.

   
   

   

   
   

Creamy Clementine Protein Smoothies

Ingredients for one smoothie:

• 2 Mandarin oranges, peeled & quartered

• 1/2 frozen banana

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1/3 cup coconut milk or other non-dairy milk

• 1 Tbsp ground flax seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

• If you prefer a little more sweetness, add 1 tsp of date syrup or honey. I think the orange/banana add enough sweetness on their own.

• 1 serving plain protein powder - this one is my favorite - if using a vanilla protein powder, omit the vanilla and date syrup/honey.

• handful of ice cubes

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until creamy.