Finally, a smoothie that uses NO protein powder! The secret ingredient to this Vegan Protein Smoothie is sunflower seeds. You can enjoy this smoothie for a healthy breakfast or after a workout drink! This Sunflower Seed Smoothie is also versatile in that it can be turned into Sunflower Milk and even Sunflower Chai Tea!

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sunflower vegan protein smoothie in a glass on a table

close up picture of vegan protein smoothie in a class with an ice cube

What’s the number one question vegans hear? Yep, “where do you get your protein?” Protein has been synonymous with meat for a long time so I can understand how one would associate this important macronutrient with animal products. But plant-based foods have more than enough protein. This vegan protein smoothie proves that. Sunflower seeds are not only a good source of protein, but they are a good source of healthy fats. Plus unlike nuts, it’s easier to digest. So you see, you can get plenty of protein on a vegan diet without the need to use any expensive vegan protein supplements.

WHAT IS IN THIS VEGAN PROTEIN SMOOTHIE?

The ingredients of this recipe are simple. The star, of course, is sunflower seeds. You will want to use RAW sunflower seeds for this smoothie and NOT those flavored sunflower seeds you get from the store in the snack aisle. I wouldn’t want you to have a “bbq ranch-flavored” smoothie lol as that might not be too pleasant.

Other ingredients include your choice of vegan milk and a natural sweetener. I like to use either Dates or Turkish apricots in my smoothie because they have added health benefits. Since they are not just isolated sugar, they also come with things like healthy carbohydrates and fiber.

Another ingredient in this vegan protein smoothie is maca powder. This is optional but I highly recommend adding it to your smoothie! Maca is an adaptogen herb. That means it adapts to you helping you balance what’s needed in your body. It is also a superfood that when consumed often can give you tons of energy. So if you are drinking this as a healthy breakfast smoothie option, add the maca powder!

Because this recipe is so versatile, you can drink it warm as a tea, or even use it as a milk substitute! (Instructions on how to do this are below in the recipe card).

COULD I USE SUNFLOWER BUTTER INSTEAD?

You sure can!

I’m no stranger to using sunflower butter as you can see in my Sunflower Butter Cups recipe. But using sunflower seeds in their whole form gives you the most nutrients like fiber, magnesium, and selenium.

Also, sunflower seeds are easier to digest than most nuts. So if the thought of blending seeds makes you nervous fear not! You will have a smooth smoothie (no pun intended lol) that will be easy to drink.

HEALTH BENEFITS:

Sunflower seeds contain an important mineral known as selenium. Selenium is important for a properly functioning thyroid, which is important for metabolism and weight management.

Sunflower seeds are also very high in Vitamin E. Vitamin E can help reduce chronic inflammation, as well as prevent heart disease. Because sunflower seeds are also rich in phytosterols, they can help block the absorption of bad cholesterol in the body.

***NOTE: This blog is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner. All information contained in this blog is the opinion of Monique and is not to be interpreted as medical advice.