Plant-Based Papa

High Protein Smoothie Base

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Overhead view of a creamy high protein plant-based strawberry banana smoothie in a glass can cup with a gold rim on a white marble surface.

If you've ever wanted a smoothie that actually keeps you full, tastes incredible, and gives your body a serious nutritional head start on the day — this is the one. This plant-based smoothie base is the foundation we use for pretty much every smoothie we make in our kitchen, and once you try it you will completely understand why. It's versatile enough to work with almost any flavor combination your heart desires — from a vibrant super green smoothie to a nostalgic peanut butter and jelly smoothie, a classic strawberry banana smoothie, and so much more. One base. Endless possibilities.

The protein content of this smoothie base is genuinely one of its most impressive qualities. By adding either 1 tablespoon plus 3/4 teaspoon of pea protein powder or 3 ounces of silken tofu per serving, we bring the total protein content to just shy of 20 grams — and that's before you even factor in your plant milk, medjool dates, or any additional add-ins. That is more protein than most people get from an entire meal, packed into a single smoothie base. We've tested this recipe with a variety of protein sources and our top recommendations are pea protein powder and tofu — both blend seamlessly into the base without affecting the flavor or consistency in any noticeable way. You can absolutely use your preferred protein source though, and the recipe will still be outstanding.

What really sets this smoothie base apart nutritionally is the combination of pantry staples we pack into every single serving. We use hemp hearts, chia seeds, nutritional yeast, and plant milk as the nutritional backbone of this recipe — and together they create something that is so much more than just a smoothie. Hemp hearts bring a complete protein source along with a beautiful balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Chia seeds add fiber, calcium, and more omega-3s. Nutritional yeast is the B vitamin powerhouse that takes this smoothie's nutritional profile into genuinely remarkable territory. And your plant milk of choice rounds everything out with additional protein, calcium, and creaminess.

And speaking of that nutritional profile — let's talk numbers, because they are hard to believe for a smoothie base. This recipe contains over 100% of your daily target for all B vitamins except B5, 89% of your daily folate requirements, 5.9 grams of iron, and over 100% of your daily omega-3 requirements. It's also a great source of fiber, omega-6, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and so much more. And remember — all of those numbers are before you add your plant milk, medjool dates, or any of your favorite smoothie add-ins. When you factor those in, this smoothie base becomes one of the most nutrient dense breakfast options you can possibly make. It is genuinely hard to find a more efficient way to nourish your body first thing in the morning.

Whether you're a longtime plant-based eater looking to level up your morning routine, a busy parent trying to get more nutrition into your day without spending an hour in the kitchen, or someone who is simply tired of smoothies that taste great but leave you hungry an hour later — this plant-based high protein smoothie base is exactly what you have been looking for. Make it once and it will become a non-negotiable part of your morning.

High Protein Smoothie Base

This high protein plant-based smoothie base has nearly 20g of protein, over 100% of daily B vitamins, and works with any smoothie flavor. Vegan, nutrient dense, and ready in minutes.

Prep
3 min
Cook
2 min
Total
5 min
Servings
1

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

Add-Ins

Instructions

  1. Add 1 tbsp Hemp Hearts, 1 tbsp Chia Seeds, 2 tbsp Nutritional Yeast, 1 Medium Medjool Date(s) (optionally for added sweetness, can also substitute 1 tablespoon maple syrup for every date), 3/4 cup Plant-Milk (see notes for options), and 1 tbsp + 3/4 tsp Pea Protein Powder or 3 oz of tofu for each serving of pea protein powder.

    NOTE: If you aren't using a high speed blender, soak your dates in hot water before hand to make it easier to blend.

  2. Blend your base ingredients until smooth and well incorporated.

  3. If using a separate smoothie recipe add those ingredients now, otherwise add 1 cup Frozen Fruit of your choice and then blend again until smooth.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories
326 kcal
Protein
25.5 g
Carbs
19.9 g
Fat
11.6 g
Fiber
9.4 g
Sugar
17.1 g
Sodium
216.5 mg
Vit. B12
17.3 mcg

Notes & Tips

  • We love using Medjool Dates as a natural sweetener. We buy them in bulk at Costco, pit them and then freeze them to be used in smoothies!
  • If you don't have dates and want a bit sweeter of a smoothie you can substitute 1 tablespoon (or to taste) of maple syrup or agave.
  • Our favorite plant milk for this recipe is West Life Smoothie Blend (soy milk). It bumps this smoothie up to 31g of protein just by itself (and it tastes great).
  • You can use any protein powder or source you'd like, just keep in mind if it's flavored, your smoothie might end up tasting like your protein and not your add-ins.

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