Protein Powder is not Just for your Shaker Cup

Time is precious. Everyone seems to be in a rush to maximise the use of this non-renewable resource. People settle for to-go meals to save on time spent on food prep.  In place of an energising breakfast after a workout, many opt for a plant-based protein powder shake instead. Packed with the right nutrients in the right proportion, these powders revitalise and are a must-have for the busy health buffs.

Exploring Possibilities

Well-formulated and convenient to use, protein powder is the perfect ingredient for energy shakes and smoothies. But its place goes beyond the shaker or blender.  It’s got other uses and applications that might interest you and maybe even inspire you to whip a signature protein-charged main dish or dessert.  Read on and be inspired to concoct your own recipes. 

Sprinkle Over Veggies

An oven-baked pumpkin or zucchini casserole topped with cheese and protein powder would be a hit.  Adding red, green or yellow bell peppers would add to the dish’s visual appeal and increase its vitamin C content. Best to add the peppers after baking. 

Stir-fried spinach, french beans, cauliflower or broccoli with a sprinkling of plant-based protein powder is another delicious and healthy treat. A sprinkling of protein powder over a bowl of green salad is another healthful idea that can be considered.

Protein Boost Snacks

Protein power balls or energy bars made from peanut butter, chopped dates, oats, unsweetened dark chocolate, and protein powder are a breeze to prepare.  A coating of chopped nuts of your choice will add texture and flavour to these delightful protein-packed munchies. 

If you love cookies, adding a scoop of protein powder to your favourite healthy cookie recipe will make it an even healthier snack.

Add to Fruity Summer Coolers

A home-made popsicle from fresh fruit juice, milk or its vegan counterpart plus a teaspoon of plant-based protein powder will not just be refreshing but nutritious too. Adding bits of fruit to the popsicle mixture before freezing will make this summer treats even more irresistible not just for kids but for adults too.

Mix into Dips and Dressings

Avocado is one fruit known for its distinct taste and texture. It is an interesting fact to note that it is one fruit that contains a good amount of protein.

When one thinks of avocado, guacamole comes to mind. This delicious Mexican dip of mashed avocado with grated garlic, lime juice, onions, cilantro, chopped onions and spiced up with cayenne pepper goes well with chips and veggie sticks. Adding some protein powder to this dip will give this favourite dip more nutritional appeal.

Adding a dash of protein powder to salad dressings is an idea to consider too especially if your bowl of salad greens does not include spinach or watercress which are good protein sources. 

Take the Challenge for Better Health

For vegetarians and vegans who rely solely on plant-based sources for protein, this nourishing plant protein combination is a convenient way of ensuring that the daily protein intake requirement is met.  

There seem to be countless possibilities of utilising protein powder to the max.  Explore using it with milk, vegan milk alternatives, fruits, vegetables, nuts and beans.  Read recipes to spark new ideas.  It is worth the effort. After all, protein is an essential macronutrient and having enough in your diet will go a long way.