One convenient ingredient I often turn to when it comes to making high protein recipes is plant-based PROTEIN POWDER! Scroll down to read more about the benefits of plant-based protein powders, and what recipes you can make with them other than smoothies and shakes~
NOTE: this post is sponsored by Outcast Foods. Use code CLV to get 15% OFF your order!
If you have been following me for a while now, you’ve probably seen me use plant-based protein powders in some of my recipes. Contrary to what most people believe, protein powders aren’t just for people who work out; they are actually a good way to level up your protein intake and can easily be incorporated into different recipes. Whilst I don’t believe that protein powders are essential to your diet, they are an excellent addition for a quick and easy source of protein.
Before I get to what kind of recipes you can make with protein powders, let me tell you a little about their benefits.
Benefits of Plant-Based Protein Powders
One reason why people consume plant-based protein powders is that they are rich in protein which is essential in repairing, maintaining, and growing muscles, tissues, bones, cartilage, and blood. I encourage you to choose plant-based protein powders. Here are some of the benefits:
- Plant-based protein powders are easier to digest since they are made using plant-based ingredients such as hemp, seeds, rice, peas, or quinoa.
- Most plant-based protein powders are gluten-free.
- They carry fewer artificial sweeteners compared to other non-vegan options.
- It’s dairy-free, making it the perfect option for vegans or anyone who is lactose intolerant.
- Many plant-based protein powders contain all 9 essential amino acids.
- Less harm to the planet and animals.
What can you make with protein powder?
You’ll be surprised to know that aside from smoothies and shakes, there are tons of other recipes that you can make using plant-based protein powders. Here are several options:
- Pizza (yes, you can mix it with the dough to make your pizza high in protein!)
- Pancakes (for a high protein breakfast or brunch!)
- Protein ice cream (perfect for a sweet post-workout snack!)
- Cookies and other pastries (yep, it’s entirely possible!)
- Smoothies and smoothie bowls (my personal favourite!)
I have actually compiled some of my favourite protein recipes but first, let’s talk a little about Outcast Foods and their awesome protein powders!
Upcycled Plant-Based Smoothies from Outcast Foods (15% OFF discount below!)
Outcast Foods is a Canadian sustainable food tech company that aims to reduce food waste and carbon emissions by upcycling local produce from farms. This means that instead of surplus produce going straight to landfills, these are instead upcycled to produce their vegan, non-GMO, organic products.
They mainly carry these plant-based protein powders, and I was happy to try out THREE of their flavours (chocolate, vanilla, and lemon meringue pie). Each scoop contains 6 servings of fruits and vegetables and 20g of protein!
Want to support Outcast and its mission to reduce food waste and carbon emissions? Simply click on the button below, and get your 15% OFF using the code “CLV” upon checkout!
Yummy Protein Powder Recipes (VEGAN!)
If you want to give these plant-based protein powders a try, here are some awesome recipes!
Creamy Strawberry Banana Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dairy-free milk
- 1 banana
- 1 cup frozen strawberries
- 1/2 cup vegan plain yogurt
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Enjoy!
Iced Mocha Protein Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dairy-free chocolate milk
- 1 banana (frozen preferred)
- 1 tbsp instant coffee
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
- Few ice cubes
- 1 handful baby spinach (optional)
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Enjoy!
Vegan Yogurt Smoothie Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 serving of vegan plain yogurt
- 1/2 scoop of vegan chocolate or vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar (optional)
- 1/3 cup vegan granola (try this Oil-Free Chocolate Granola!)
- 1/2 cup berries
- Optional toppings: coconut flakes, powdered sugar
Instructions:
- Add yogurt and protein powder into a serving bowl and mix well together until smooth. Add syrup, if preferred.
- Top with vegan granola, berries, and if you like, some coconut flakes and powdered sugar.
- Enjoy!
Vegan Protein Pancakes
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 ripe banana, peeled
- 1/2 cup oat flour
- 1 scoop vegan vanilla protein powder
- 2 tbsp powdered peanut butter (optional) + 2 tbsp water or more almond milk (optional)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vegan butter or vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients in a blender or food processor until completely smooth. If no blender, mash the banana well with a fork or use some apple sauce (adjust the amount to get the right consistency).
- Add some vegan butter or oil on a heated non-stick pan on medium-high heat.
- Cook on each side for about 2-3 minutes on medium-high heat until golden.
- Top with your favorite pancake toppings and enjoy!