Healthy Recipe: Cherry Almond Smoothie

It’s a little chillier than we’re accustomed to at this time of year, but smoothies are still a super refreshing way to cool off and recharge your hard-working muscles after a hard run or race. This smoothie features antioxidant-rich cherries (which you better buy soon or else they’ll be out of season!), as well as muscle-building protein powder. I’ve also added a bit of almond butter which will not only provide a quality dose of healthy fats, but also gives this smoothie some staying power so that you’re not hungry within an hour of drinking it. Cheers!

cherry almond smoothie - Eat Spin Run RepeatCherry Almond Smoothie

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook time: 0 mins
Serves: 1

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pitted cherries, fresh or frozen
  • 1 scoop vanilla Vega Sport protein powder (or protein powder of choice)
  • 2 tsp almond butter
  • 1 tsp pure almond extract
  • 1/2 tsp maca root powder (optional – doesn’t affect the taste or texture, but maca is a superfood that helps to balance the nervous system and aids in recovery)
  • 1 cup water or unsweetened almond milk
  • 2 tsp chia seeds
  • 6-8 ice cubes

Instructions:

  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend on high until almost smooth.
  • Toss in the ice cube and continue blending, adding more ice if you prefer  thicker consistency.
  • Pour into a large glass and serve.

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foodAngela Simpson is a certified Health Coach, blogger at Eat Spin Run Repeat, and regular nutrition contributor to the Run Waterloo blog.