Swiss Chard Raspberry Kefir Protein Smoothie

This Swiss Chard Raspberry Kefir Protein Smoothie features Swiss chard, tart raspberries, matcha protein powder, kefir and hemp seeds for a deliciously wholesome way to start your day.

Fresh Swiss chard leaves, kefir, raspberries, matcha protein powder and hemp seeds come together in this power-packed protein smoothie that not only keeps you full for hours but promotes gut health as well.

Sweet, tart and full of flavor this combination of ingredients may not be those you traditionally use in your smoothies but they go well together and offer a variety of nutritional benefits.

This Swiss Chard Raspberry Kefir Protein Smoothie is the perfect morning drink to help you kickstart the day and give you enough energy to tackle whatever comes your way.

What is kefir?

If you’ve never tried kefir before, it’s a fermented milk drink similar to yogurt but with a slightly more sour taste. It can most often be found in the dairy section of the grocery store next to the yogurt. While you can eat yogurt with a spoon, kefir is usually consumed as a drink.

Kefir is loaded with protein, calcium and is a good source of probiotics. The perfect combination of nutrients to help build and repair muscles and bone and support a healthy gut. What more could you ask for in one drink?

For more nutritional information about kefir you can read this Healthline article.

Why use a matcha-based protein powder?

This matcha-based protein powder makes a great substitute for coffee as it contains caffeine and is the ideal ingredient to add to your morning drink. It, however, contains less caffeine than coffee. On average, a cup of matcha contains about 70mg of caffeine, in comparison to 100-140mg in a cup of coffee. Despite its lower caffeine content, matcha can sustain alertness for extended periods compared to coffee, minus the jitters or stomach upset that coffee often causes.

Ingredients

• Swiss chard leaves: Swiss chard adds fiber to this smoothie. Note you can use the stems and the leaves in the smoothie. If you aren’t a fan of Swiss chard substitute with spinach or kale instead.
• Kefir: Use an unflavored kefir to add texture and help thicken up this smoothie.
• Raspberries: Frozen raspberries help to thicken the smoothie and make it nice and cool. If you only have fresh raspberries, add a few ice cubes to the blender. Or put your fresh raspberries in the freezer a few hours before you want to prepare the smoothie.
• Avocado: Adding a ripe avocado is optional but it does add creaminess and some healthy fats.
• Matcha protein powder: Matcha protein powder adds staying power in this matcha protein smoothie and some caffeine so it’s great as a morning drink.
• Hemp seeds: Hemp seeds also add protein and healthy fats to this smoothie.
• Milk: Use your preferred milk, dairy or plant based will both work. You can also use more or less depending on how thick or thin you like your smoothie. If using plant-based opt for unsweetened so your smoothie isn’t overly sweet. Vanilla unsweetened would also work.

How To Make This Kefir Protein Smoothie

Place all the ingredients in the blender and blend until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Add more or less milk depending on how thick you’d like your smoothie to be.

Top with extra hemp seeds and serve.

Storage

This protein smoothie recipe tastes best if you drink it just after you prepare it. If you can’t finish it in one sitting, you can freeze it until you are ready to drink it again. To thaw, place the Swiss Chard smoothie on the kitchen counter until it is soft enough to drink again.

Looking for more smoothie recipes?

• Tropical Protein Smoothie
• Dragon Fruit Smoothie
• Soursop Smoothie
• Mango Pineapple Smoothie