Protein Acai Bowl

This protein acai bowl makes a sweet and filling breakfast! It packs in 29 grams of protein, plus immune-boosting antioxidants and fiber. It reminds me of a PB and J.

The Benefits of Acai:

Acai is a deep purple berry that grows in South America. It's cherished for its high antioxidant levels. It boasts more antioxidants than blueberries, cranberries, and raspberries.

It's pureed then frozen and sold in well-stocked grocery stores. You can find it in the freezer aisle near the frozen fruit. Look for unsweetened acai puree for the most health benefits.

This protein acai bowl is the perfect way to use it up! It's sweet, creamy, and filling. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Key Ingredients:

• Banana - I'm a big believer in bananas in smoothies! They add natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
• Greek yogurt - For extra protein and creaminess. My favorite brand is Fage, but I save that for yogurt parfaits. I use Costco's Kirkland brand for smoothies.
• Vanilla protein - Not all protein powders are created equal, in quality or taste. Look for a brand you know you like! You can use whey or plant-based protein. If the brand you use isn't sweet, you may want to add a little bit of honey.
• Peanut butter - Peanut butter is a great addition to smoothies. And it tastes great with berry, chocolate, and green smoothies!
• Frozen acai - Always check the label to avoid a bunch of added sugar. You can find frozen acai near the frozen fruit. I used Trader Joe's unsweetened acai packets.
• Frozen strawberries - Strawberry and peanut butter are a match made in heaven! I buy two huge bags at Costco so I never run out.
• Almond milk - Or your liquid milk of choice. Dairy, oat, almond, or cashew all work great!

How to Make this Protein Acai Bowl:

A smoothie bowl is just a thick, scoopable smoothie. You eat it from a bowl with a spoon instead of a straw.

The key to a thick smoothie bowl is minimal liquid. It's important to use a high-speed blender with a powerful motor. Even budget-friendly brands sell high-speed models.

Here's what you need to do:

• Combine everything in the blender. Start with the soft, non-frozen ingredients like banana and yogurt. It gives the blades something to catch and reduces stalling.
• Stop the blender and scrape it. You may have to do this more than once. Use a spatula to push the mixture toward the blades.

• Blend until it keeps moving. Once the mixture blends without stalling, blend until it's smooth.
• Scoop into a wide, shallow bowl. The mixture should be thick enough to scoop with a large spoon.
• Add toppings and enjoy! I always like to add a little crunch with sliced almonds or granola.

Acai Bowl Topping Ideas:

The best part about an acai bowl is the toppings! The combo of creamy and crunchy is TOO good. Here's a few ideas to get you started:

• Nuts - Sliced almonds, chopped pecans, cashews, pistachios, etc.
• Seeds - Hemp hearts, pepitas, chia seeds, flax seeds, etc.
• Peanut butter - Melt peanut butter in the microwave so it's thin, then drizzle it on top.
• Berries - Blueberries, raspberries, sliced strawberries.
• Fruit - Pomegranate seeds, sliced banana, pear, mango.
• Granola - Any brand you like!

Customize it:

This high-protein acai bowl is customizable!

• Sweetness level - If you prefer it on the sweeter side, add a little bit of honey or maple syrup. Or swap the plain Greek yogurt for strawberry.
• Milk - You can use dairy, almond, cashew, or oat milk. The options are endless.
• Fruit - Swap the frozen strawberries with frozen mixed berries or blueberries.

Expert Tips:

• If possible, use a high-speed blender. I highly recommend a Vitamix or a Ninja. They're built to pulverize frozen ingredients!
• If the mixture won't blend, you can always add more almond milk. Just do it a little bit at a time. If you add too much, the consistency won't be thick!

Smoothie Recipes:

• Carrot Banana Smoothie
• Panera's Green Passion Smoothie
• Tropical Iron Rich Smoothie
• Berry Almond Milk Smoothie