Vegan Quinoa Smoothie (Printable Version)

Nutrient-packed blend of quinoa, fresh fruits, and plant milk for a wholesome boost.

# What You'll Need:

→ Grains

01 - 1/2 cup cooked quinoa, cooled

→ Fruits

02 - 1 ripe banana, sliced
03 - 1/2 cup frozen mango chunks
04 - 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, or choice)

→ Liquids

05 - 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or preferred plant-based milk)
06 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup, optional

→ Additions

07 - 1 tablespoon chia seeds, optional
08 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
09 - Pinch of ground cinnamon, optional

# How To Make:

01 - Prepare quinoa following package directions, then allow to cool completely.
02 - Add cooled quinoa, sliced banana, frozen mango, frozen berries, almond milk, and maple syrup to the blender.
03 - Incorporate chia seeds, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon if using.
04 - Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, occasionally scraping down the sides.
05 - Taste and modify sweetness or consistency with additional maple syrup or almond milk as preferred.
06 - Pour into two serving glasses and enjoy immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It keeps you full for hours without feeling heavy, thanks to the protein and fiber from the quinoa and chia seeds.
  • You can prep the quinoa ahead and freeze it in portions, making mornings effortless.
  • The texture is silky and thick, like a dessert smoothie that happens to be breakfast.
  • It tastes nothing like health food, just sweet fruit and a hint of cinnamon warmth.
02 -
  • Never blend hot or warm quinoa. It turns the smoothie gluey and gives it a strange, porridge-like texture.
  • If your blender struggles, add a little extra liquid and pulse a few times before going full speed.
  • Chia seeds will gel up after ten minutes, so if you like it drinkable, serve immediately or skip them.
03 -
  • Rinse your quinoa well before cooking to remove any bitterness, even if the package says pre-rinsed.
  • Blend for an extra ten seconds after it looks smooth. The quinoa can hide tiny grainy bits that one more pulse will eliminate.
  • If you're meal prepping, portion everything except the liquid into freezer bags, then dump and blend with fresh almond milk each morning.