Move over, piña colada—this healthy Strawberry-Pineapple Smoothie is a tropical vacation in a glass!
These days, I’ve made my peace with bananas. It took a minute, but I don’t hate them anymore. I’ve even been known to bake the odd banana bread every now and then. But I still have a little side-eye skepticism when they show up, and I probably always will. I guess that’s why this strawberry-pineapple smoothie exists sans bananas. One sip, and you’ll realize there’s no need for this yellow fruit.
Instead, you get a refreshing, protein-packed blend that tastes like something you’d sip on the beach of an all-inclusive resort. Unlike the smoothies you find at the hotel tiki bar, this recipe nixes the refined sugars and dairy. Also, I sneaked in some protein powder and collagen peptides, so it is the perfect post-workout snack.
Don’t worry, though. The smoothie doesn’t taste healthy. It tastes delicious. I’m talking sunshine-in-a-glass delicious. Between the strawberries and juicy pineapple chunks, consider this drink your mini vacay—minus the plane ticket and sunscreen. But hey, you might get the urge to stick one of those tiny umbrellas in it. Go ahead. I won’t judge.
Are Strawberry-Pineapple Smoothies Healthy?
Absolutely. For one thing, there are no added sugars, so the only sweetness you’re getting is from the fruits. Speaking of fruits, the strawberries bring in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C (like, a lot of vitamin C). As for the pineapple, you get even more vitamin C, plus bromelain, which may help with digestion. Then there’s the protein powder and collagen peptides, which add a nice nutritional boost after a high-intensity workout.
If you’re dairy-sensitive, double-check your protein powder. You don’t want any milk or whey protein sneaking into your smoothie. To be safe, stick to a plant-based protein powder.
What Are Collagen Peptides?
Collagen peptides are basically a protein. They come from the skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues of animals. Gross, right? Well, that’s what I love about collagen peptides. The collagen is refined into a digestible protein powder. And, unlike traditional protein powder, they offer some surprising perks.
There are many studies that indicate collagen keeps your skin, hair, nails, and joints in check. Adding a scoop to your smoothie may even improve gut and muscle health. While these claims are subjective to an extent, the evidence is compelling!
How To Make Ahead And Store?
Sorry, folks. Smoothies are best fresh. While you can store them in the fridge for a few hours, anything longer, and you’ll end up with a sad, separated mess. Trust me, I’ve tried.
I suppose the best prep-ahead approach is to pre-measure and freeze the fruit and portion out your protein powder. That way, all you have to do is toss everything in the blender when you’re ready to drink.
Serving Suggestions
Sometimes, a smoothie isn’t enough. If you’re still hungry after a glass, a serving of Blueberry Baked Oatmeal is a sweet and healthy treat. Or perhaps you’d like something more savory? Make a batch of Spinach Breakfast Egg Muffins With Artichokes—you’ll certainly feel full after a serving of these bad boys. But maybe you’re not in the mood for anything as complicated as all that, in which case a couple of Hard-Boiled Eggs In Microwave should do the trick!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces unsweetened almond milk
- 2 cups frozen strawberries
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 scoop collagen peptides
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine almond milk, frozen strawberries, and pineapple chunks in a blender.
- Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add vanilla protein powder, collagen peptides, vanilla extract, and lemon juice to the blender.
- Pulse a few times until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Pour the smoothie into two glasses and serve immediately.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
Leave a Comment