Blueberry Cacao Zucchini Smoothie with Protein
I occasionally order my smoothies in bulk from a company called Daily Harvest. They offer simple, healthy, and convenient smoothie packs. With over 30 flavors available, I’ve tried almost all of them. However, one flavor truly stands out: their blueberry cacao smoothie.
Over the years, I’ve learned to recreate this smoothie at home for a couple of reasons. First, it’s much more affordable, and second, it allows me to customize the flavors and ingredients to enhance its nutritional value.
For instance, Daily Harvest smoothies cost around $6-$8 each and typically don’t include protein. Ever since my daughter was born just over a year ago, I’ve been making this smoothie every single day—yes, you read that right, every single day. It’s become such a staple in my life that I can’t imagine a day without it. I genuinely believe it’s the best smoothie flavor in the world. Alright, I’ll stop gushing now, but you get the idea!
Let’s dive into this nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-make smoothie recipe.
Ingredients
1/2 cup frozen blueberries
1 cup frozen zucchini or cauliflower
1-2 cups coconut water
1 scoop chocolate protein powder
1 tablespoon flaxseeds
1 handful of spinach (about 1-2 cups)
1 tablespoon cacao powder
Instructions
Blend everything in a high-powered blender until smooth and enjoy immediately.
Adjust the liquid content to achieve your desired thickness. For a thicker smoothie, start with less liquid; for a more liquid consistency, add more.
Product Recommendations
Can You Give This Smoothie to Kids?
Absolutely! I make this exact smoothie for Olive every day. It's the perfect morning smoothie! Here’s how I do it:
I blend all the ingredients except for the protein powder. Once the mixture is smooth, I pour a portion into Olive’s cup, then add the protein powder to the remaining smoothie for myself. This way, Olive gets a nutritious smoothie without the added protein, which she doesn’t need as much as I do. Plus, she loves it!
Ingredients Breakdown
Frozen Blueberries
Frozen wild blueberries are a fantastic option for this smoothie. They’re packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which are great for supporting heart health. I usually buy them in bulk from Costco because they are more affordable than fresh blueberries. They provide a sweet and tangy flavor that compliments the cacao perfectly.
Frozen Zucchini or Cauliflower
Zucchini: You can also find frozen zucchini at grocery stores, although it can be a bit harder to come by. Keeping frozen zucchini on hand is worthwhile for its ability to add creaminess and nutrients to smoothies without altering their taste.
Cauliflower: You can use either regular cauliflower florets or buy pre-riced cauliflower for convenience. I always keep some in my freezer specifically for thickening smoothies. It’s a fantastic way to add volume and a creamy texture without altering the flavor.
Coconut Water
Coconut water is a great way to add a touch of sweetness while keeping the smoothie light. It’s also loaded with electrolytes, which are fantastic for hydration. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can substitute coconut water with coconut milk or almond milk.
Chocolate Protein Powder
Protein powder is one of the most important parts of this smoothie recipe. It helps keep me full and provides the necessary protein for muscle repair and growth. I often use a whey-based protein powder, but a vegan option works just as well. The chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with the cacao and blueberries, making this smoothie taste like a decadent treat. Check out my two favorite protein powders below!
Nuzest Protein Powder: My Favorite Plant-Based Protein
Explore my detailed review of the Nuzest Protein Powder. If you decide to purchase, use the link below and apply the code Jazz for a special discount:
Buy Nuzest Protein Powder with code Jazz for a discount!
Flavcity Protein Powder: My Top Whey Protein Choice
Check out my in-depth review of the Flavcity Protein Powder. Ready to buy? Use the link below and the code Jazz to enjoy a discount:
Buy Flavcity Protein Powder with code Jazz for a discount!
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are a great addition for their healthy fats and fiber content. They help in regulating blood sugar levels and support digestive health. If you don’t have flaxseeds, chia seeds or hemp seeds are excellent alternatives that also offer a range of health benefits.
Spinach
Adding a handful of spinach is a sneaky way to include extra veggies in your diet. Spinach is rich in vitamin C and vitamin B, making this smoothie a nutritious powerhouse without altering the taste. You can use fresh or frozen spinach depending on what you have on hand.
Cacao Powder
Cacao Powder vs. Cocoa Powder: Both cacao powder and cocoa powder originate from the cacao bean but undergo different processing methods. Cacao powder is made by cold-pressing unroasted cacao beans, preserving antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, resulting in a rich, intense chocolate flavor with slight bitterness ideal for deep chocolate recipes. Cocoa powder, on the other hand, is produced by roasting cacao beans at high temperatures, altering its structure and reducing nutritional content. It has a milder flavor and is often blended with additives like sugar and milk solids for a smoother taste, commonly used in commercial baking and hot cocoa mixes. These processing variations significantly impact their flavor profiles, nutritional benefits, and culinary uses.
Ingredient Substitutions
Frozen Berries: Swap blueberries for strawberries, raspberries, or mixed berries.
Coconut Water: Use coconut milk, almond milk, or a 50/50 water mix for a creamier texture.
Protein Powder: Any chocolate protein powder will work.
Cacao Powder: You can omit this if you don’t have it, but it adds a rich chocolate flavor.
Flaxseeds: Chia seeds or hemp seeds are great alternatives for added fiber.
Spinach: Use frozen spinach if it’s more affordable or convenient.
Banana: Add a ripe banana for a creamier smoothie and extra sweetness.
Which Protein Powder Should You Use?
I like to keep a couple of protein powders on hand—one vegan and one whey-based. Here are my top recommendations:
Nuzest Clean Lean Protein: This is a great vegan option.
Check out my review of Nuzest Protein Powder Here!
Use code JAZZ for a discount HERE!
Flavcity Protein Powder: Another excellent choice!
Check out my review of Flavcity Protein Powder Here and get 15% off with the code JAZZ.
Click HERE to get yours!
Which Blender Should I Use?
Using a good quality blender is crucial for a smooth, creamy consistency. Here are my top picks:
Ways to Make Your Smoothies Thicker Without Using Fruit
Want to make your smoothies thick without the added sugar from fruit? Check out my YouTube video for some great tips!
More Smoothie Recipes
If you’re looking for more nutritious smoothie ideas, check out these recipes:
This Blueberry Cacao Zucchini Smoothie with Protein is not only a delicious way to start your day but also a nutritious powerhouse. Packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and a generous serving of veggies, it’s a great option for a quick breakfast, meal replacement, or afternoon snack. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients, and don’t forget to share your favorite variations with me!
Blueberry Cacao Zucchini Smoothie with Protein
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen blueberries
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 scoop vanilla protein (I used my favorite Nuzest Clean Vanilla Protein)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- Large handful of spinach (about 1-2 cups)
- Large handful of kale (about 1-2 cups)
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Swap the blueberries for frozen strawberries or mixed berries.
- I use canned coconut milk (it's much creamier) but you could use regular or another plant-based milk. I think oat milk would work best in this recipe.
- Any vanilla protein powder will work!
- Sub the chia seeds for any other healthy fat like hemp seeds or flaxseeds!
- If you don't have both greens on hand just double up on one of them! I love to store my spinach in the freezer, that way it's always cold and ready for smoothies!
- Lemon juice can be omitted but I highly recommend it as it tastes really refreshing and gives it a zest.
Instructions
- Blend everything in a high-powered blender & enjoy!
