This is my formula for an easy protein-rich smoothie EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.
This smoothie is creamy and fruity with everything you need to keep you satisfied and energized for hours. It’s a high protein smoothie with gut friendly probiotics that tastes like dessert. The best part is you can make it in minutes with only 4 ingredients. Perfect for a satisfying breakfast, quick post-workout boost, or nutritious afternoon pick me up.
I have written a lot of smoothie recipes in the past ten years, plus. But even though I love how fun it is to try creative recipes, new ingredients and spins on classics – the truth is – the old-school, classic recipes are usually famous for a reason. They are just that good! They stand the test of time and trends. And this Strawberry Smoothie is an absolute classic to crave.
Here is the BEST way to make it, according to me….
This smoothie reminds us that nourishment can be joyful, easy, and delicious. Usually we have to use a protein powder to get enough protein in a smoothie, but not here. Instead we are using cottage cheese to get the protein we need. Only whole food ingredients in this smoothie.
The combination of probiotic-rich cottage cheese with fiber-rich fruits (like berries) supports digestion, satiety and hormone balance which are key to keeping you in the parasympathetic nervous system. This smoothie allows you to feel calm, satisfied and in a good mood.
It’s thick, creamy, and naturally sweet without any added sugar, thanks to a simple base of ingredients – cottage cheese and frozen berries. With just one quick blend, you get a delicious, nourishing drink that’s perfect for breakfast, post-workout fuel, or an afternoon pick-me-up. It’s on repeat in my house!
And I promise…you won’t taste the cottage cheese.
Why you will love this recipe:
With only 4 simple whole-food ingredients and dessert like taste, it’s the kind of recipe you will come back to again and again.
Naturally high in protein (29 grams) – no protein powder needed.
A satisfying smoothie, keeps you full for hours.
Gut friendly, full of probiotics.
High protein and fiber supports steady energy, blood sugar balance and reduced cravings.
Tastes like dessert when blending the creamy slightly tangy cottage cheese with sweet berries.
Good for breakfast, snack or post-work out recovery.
Naturally gluten free and vegetarian.
Fuel for your day: Cottage cheese packs in high-quality protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied, whether you are heading out the door or powering through a busy morning.
Super duper easy: Four ingredients, one blender, and less than a minute to whip up a thick, creamy smoothie that tastes like a treat.
Health-promoting: Loaded with antioxidants and fiber from the berries; this smoothie can help fight oxidative stress and support overall health—because delicious and nutritious should always go hand in hand, am I right?!
Like I said, classics are usually winners. And classics are often simple. Think vanilla or chocolate ice cream or bagels and cream cheese. Simple! And while I have spun this smoothie a million different ways, this super simple recipe is my hands down fave.
The 4 Simple Ingredients:
Cottage Cheese – choose full fat (4%) for creaminess and satiety. Low fat can be used but it won’t be as creamy.
Fruit – I like berries; strawberries, blueberries, raspberries. Fresh or frozen can be used. Frozen berries make the smoothie cold and thick.
Honey or Maple Syrup – you only need a little.
Vanilla – adds a sweet, pleasant flavor and enhances the overall taste.
Health Benefits of A Cottage Cheese Smoothie:
Increased Satiety and Reduced Cravings – A high protein breakfast keeps you full for longer and prevents cravings later in the day.
Promotes Digestive Health – Probiotics in cottage cheese support gut flora. Fiber from fruits aid digestion.
Helps Maintain Stable Blood Sugar Levels – The balanced macronutrients prevent sugar spikes.
Improves Mood and Keeps You Calm – a high-protein breakfast helps maintain a state of parasympathetic dominance throughout the day. This is because protein helps regulate blood sugar, promotes satiety, and supports the function of neurotransmitters that influence mood and relaxation.
Variations:
Serve as a smoothie bowl topped with nuts, chia seeds, berries, coconut, or granola. Use frozen fruit, you want it to be thick.
Can be made with Greek yogurt but there will be less protein and more carbs.
For a nutrient boost add spinach or kale, but when you mix green with red (strawberries) it will change the color to brown.
Most people don’t get enough protein at breakfast, and miss out on benefits like blood sugar control and to losing body fat. Start your day off right with a breakfast smoothie that fills and fuels you to power through your day.
Strawberry Protein Smoothie (Only 4 Ingredients)
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups strawberries, frozen or fresh
- 1 cup cottage cheese, full fat for the most creaminess
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a blender starting with the cottage cheese.Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste test and add more honey or vanilla extract if you think it needs it.Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately or store in an air tight jar for 1 day.
If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, protein-rich, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites
