Berry protein smoothie with blueberries and lemon
Start your day with a burst of flavour with our protein berry smoothie. This delightful blend combines the natural sweetness of blueberries and vanilla with the creamy texture of raspberry quark, all enhanced by a splash of citrus. This is not just a refreshing drink; it is a protein-packed powerhouse that is perfect for a quick breakfast or mid-day snack.
Ingredients
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400 ml
Quark, raspberry
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65 g
Blueberries, fresh or frozen
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1 tsp
Vanilla sugar
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1 tsp
Lemon juice
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To serve
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Blueberry powder
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Macerate the blueberries in the vanilla sugar for a flavour boost
Instead of blending the vanilla sugar into the smoothie, sprinkle it over the fresh or frozen blueberries and let the mixture sit anywhere from 30 minutes to overnight. This process, known as maceration, draws out the berries’ natural juices, intensifying their sweet-tart taste and infusing them with a warm vanilla aroma. It’s a simple step that deepens the overall flavour of the smoothie and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Use chilled ingredients for a creamier berry protein smoothie
Chilled ingredients help create a thicker, creamier drink by blending more evenly and maintaining a cool, refreshing texture. For this recipe, make sure to use the quark straight from the fridge. If you're using fresh blueberries, chill them beforehand – or simply use them frozen for an even creamier result. Even the lemon juice contributes to the overall chill, helping maintain the ideal temperature. By keeping all your ingredients cold, you’ll create a smoothie that’s not only deliciously rich but also perfectly cool from the first sip to the last.
No blueberry powder? Dry and blend your own
You can easily make your own blueberry powder at home. For best results, use fresh blueberries – frozen ones hold more moisture and can take much longer to dry. Start by washing the berries thoroughly and patting them dry. Spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then dry in the oven at the lowest temperature setting (about 50-60 °C / 120-140 °F) for 6-8 hours, or until they’re completely dry and crisp. A food dehydrator works just as well if you have one. Once cooled, blend the dried berries in a high-speed blender or spice grinder until you get a fine powder. Sift to remove any larger pieces. Store the powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight for up to three months.
Questions about this protein berry smoothie
Easily make a refreshing berry protein smoothie with our delightful recipe. Below, we address common questions about creating this high-protein and delicious drink, including storage tips and choosing between frozen or fresh blueberries.
Do fresh or frozen blueberries work best for this smoothie?
Both fresh and frozen blueberries work great – it just depends on the texture you prefer. Frozen blueberries give the smoothie a thicker, creamier consistency and a colder, more refreshing feel. Fresh blueberries, on the other hand, create a slightly lighter, smoother blend with a more delicate berry flavour. Try experimenting with both and see which one you prefer!
Can I store this protein berry smoothie to enjoy later?
Yes, you can store this smoothie for later, but it's best enjoyed fresh. If you do need to prepare it in advance, pour it into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake or stir before serving, as the texture may change slightly over time. For the best taste and consistency, avoid storing it with any toppings like blueberry powder – add those just before serving.
Is this smoothie high in protein?
Yes, this smoothie is considered high in protein, meaning that over 20% of its energy comes from protein. This is primarily thanks to the quark, which is naturally protein-rich and gives the smoothie its thick, creamy texture and mild flavour.
Nutritional values
Nutritional value, per
53 Kcal
| Fibre | 2 gram fibers |
| Protein | 0.5 gram |
| Carbohydrates | 11.5 gram |
| Fat | 0.5 gram |
Other recipes
Make your own vanilla sugar
To create homemade vanilla sugar, first split a vanilla pod lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. Mix these seeds with granulated sugar (about one pod per 200 ml of sugar works well), then bury the split pod in the sugar. Seal this mixture in an airtight container and let it infuse for at least one week.
Using your own vanilla sugar in this protein berry smoothie enhances the drink with a deep, rich vanilla flavour that beautifully complements the fruity tones.
Fresh or not? Tips to check your blueberries
Whether you're using fresh or frozen blueberries, it's a good idea to check their quality before blending. For fresh blueberries, look for ones that are firm, plump, and have a deep blue colour with a silvery bloom – that natural, dusty coating is a good sign. Avoid any that are soft, wrinkled, or leaking juice. Give them a gentle shake in the container: if they move freely, they’re likely in good shape.
For frozen berries, check that they’re free-flowing and not clumped together, which can indicate thawing and refreezing. A quick look ensures your smoothie has the best possible flavour and texture.
Raspberry quark: the secret to an extra creamy berry protein smoothie
Raspberry quark is what gives this smoothie its rich, creamy consistency and balanced berry flavour. Naturally thick and smooth, it blends effortlessly with the other ingredients, creating a velvety texture. The mild raspberry taste also complements the blueberries and lemon perfectly, tying all the flavours together in one deliciously simple blend.
Leftover blueberries? Try these smoothie variations
If you have extra blueberries to use up, there are plenty of tasty ways to put them to good use. For something closer to a shake, try this blueberry protein shake – a simple mix of quark, Greek yoghurt, and blueberries with a hint of fresh ginger for a subtle kick. It’s creamy, smooth, and comes together in no time.
Looking for a slightly different twist? Our chia seed protein shake blends yoghurt, frozen blueberries, chia seeds, and a touch of honey. Soaking the chia seeds briefly before blending adds a thicker texture and a light, nutty flavour. Both options are easy ways to change things up while making the most of your leftover berries.
