Almond Chia Recovery Smoothie

This is hands down my new favorite post-workout smoothie.
I recently found the recipe flipping through the pages of Triathlete Magazine.
Just by looking at the ingredient list I knew that this was a total winner. Almond butter, almond milk and banana: Are you kidding me?
I slightly tweaked the recipe and included chia seeds and vegan protein powder. Even more awesome.
This delicious smoothie is perfect post-workout as it’s packed with protein for muscle repair, carbs for glycogen replacement, and essential fats. And it has a great cooling effect on your body too.
After an intense workout our body needs recovery fuel, but as the blood has been diverted from the digestive system to the muscles, digestion can be difficult and food almost unappetizing.
That’s why liquid meals are better tolerated.

Important credit

The folks over at Growing Naturals recently contacted me for a review of their protein powder. I thought they would send a couple of samples but instead they sent a ton of large size containers in various flavors (original, vanilla and chocolate). There were various rice powder products and yellow pea protein powder products: very generous!
I’ve never tried the yellow pea protein powder before so I was very curious about it. It’s raw, vegan, gluten-free, and GMO-free: score!
After trying it, I have to say that this is one of the few protein powders I've used that doesn't make me feel bloated or over full. I also appreciate that there’s no sugar or artificial stuff and has a great amino acid content too.
Among all flavors, I love the original because it has virtually no taste; so it’s perfect companion for smoothies or in baked goods.
If you’re interested in trying Growing Naturals head on over to their website GrowingNaturals.com or look for their products on the shelves of your grocer. 

Almond Chia Recovery Smoothie     Print this recipe!
Adapted from Triathlete Magazine

Ingredients
Serves 1

1 banana (better frozen)
1 tablespoon almond butter
1 tablespoon chia seeds
¾ cup almond milk
1 scoop protein powder (I used Raw Vegan Growing Naturals Original Yellow Pea)
Crushed ice to taste

Directions

Combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy.

Nutrition facts

One serving yields 351 calories, 10.4 grams of fat, 36 grams of carbs and 28.3 grams of protein.