✨Bright, fresh, and packed with protein!
Let’s Make Something Delicious
This blackberry basil protein smoothie is my go-to when I want something refreshing, filling, and just a little fancy-feeling without any effort.
It’s tart, slightly sweet, and that fresh basil gives it this cool, unexpected twist. It’s one of those smoothies that feels like summer in a glass, but it also fuels you up like a full meal.
It’s perfect post-workout, as a fast breakfast, or honestly when you’re craving something sweet but still want to keep it healthy.
🛒 What You’ll Need
- 1 cup frozen blackberries
- 1 small ripe banana (fresh or frozen)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 4–5 fresh basil leaves
- ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, if you like it sweeter)
- ½ cup ice
Why I Love This Recipe 💜
This smoothie came from a summer trip to a local farm where I picked way too many blackberries. I didn’t want them all in jam or pie—so I blended some with basil from my windowsill. It turned out to be a magical combo.
Why it’s awesome:
- Super fast—done in under 5 minutes
- Packs over 20g of protein
- Fresh & fruity, but not overly sweet
- Sneaky greens with basil, but you barely notice
- Feels fancy, but it’s super easy
📊 Exact Macros (Per Serving – Makes 1 large smoothie)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 23g
- Carbs: 27g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 16g (mostly from fruit)
🧪 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Protein powder + Greek yogurt = steady energy + satiety
- Chia seeds swell up, adding fiber and thickness
- Basil adds an herbal brightness that balances blackberry’s tartness
- Frozen fruit + ice = thick, creamy texture without needing a banana if you want to skip it
🍽️ Meal Plan Ideas
- Breakfast: Add toast with almond butter on the side
- Post-workout: Drink as-is with a boiled egg
- Afternoon snack: Serve half now, freeze the rest in a popsicle mold!
- Light dinner: Pair with a grain bowl or veggie wrap
😬 Common Mistakes
- Using too much basil – It gets overpowering fast. Stick to 4–5 small leaves.
- Not using frozen berries – Fresh won’t give that thick texture.
- Skipping the yogurt – It makes the smoothie creamy and adds protein.
- Adding ice first – Always add liquid first to help your blender!
🍓 What to Serve With
- A slice of banana bread
- Whole grain toast with nut butter
- Mini egg muffins or a hard-boiled egg
- Cottage cheese with fruit on the side
🍽️ Tools You’ll Need
- High-speed blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board (for banana and basil)
- Glass or smoothie cup
- Straw (optional)
🔄 Substitutions & Variations
- No basil? Try fresh mint
- No banana? Add ¼ avocado for creaminess
- Dairy-free? Use a coconut milk yogurt
- More protein? Add a second scoop of protein powder
- No chia? Use ground flaxseed
⏲️ Make Ahead Tips
- Prep smoothie packs! Freeze blackberries, banana, basil, and chia in bags.
- Just dump into blender with milk and yogurt when ready.
- You can blend and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours—just shake before drinking.
👩🍳 How to Make It
Step 1: Add Liquid and Yogurt First
Pour ¾ cup almond milk and ¼ cup Greek yogurt into your blender.
Step 2: Add Fruit and Basil
Add 1 cup frozen blackberries, 1 banana, and 4–5 basil leaves.
Step 3: Add Chia Seeds, Protein Powder & Honey
Add 1 scoop vanilla protein powder, 1 tbsp chia seeds, and 1 tsp honey (optional).
Step 4: Add Ice
Top it off with ½ cup of ice for that thick smoothie texture.
Step 5: Blend Until Smooth
Blend on high for about 30–45 seconds until creamy and smooth.
Step 6: Pour & Serve
Pour into your favorite glass, garnish with a basil leaf or a few extra blackberries.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake before drinking.
- You can also freeze leftovers in popsicle molds for a high-protein frozen treat!
- Avoid letting it sit too long or it will separate and lose that thick texture.
🥰 Final Thoughts
This smoothie is like a little moment of peace in your day—super quick, seriously good, and just different enough to keep things exciting. If you try it, leave a comment and let me know how it turned out or if you put your own spin on it. Got questions? I’m here to help!
❓ FAQ
Can I make it without protein powder?
Yes, just add extra Greek yogurt for protein.
Is it sweet enough without honey?
Totally depends on your banana and taste—try it first, then sweeten.
Can I use fresh blackberries?
Sure, but add more ice or a few frozen chunks of banana to keep it thick.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes! Freeze all ingredients but milk/yogurt and blend when ready.
Let me know how your smoothie turns out 💜