Workout Recovery Smoothie

In Breakfast, Smoothies by Frances Largeman-Roth

Makes 1 serving

It’s important to refuel after a tough workout. Cherry juice has been shown to relieve post-exercise pain in athletes, and pomegranate juice can help accelerate muscle recovery. Beets might sound like an odd smoothie ingredient, but they are rich in nitrates, which some studies show can increase muscle function and lower blood pressure. And since intense workouts can create small tears in muscle tissue, it’s smart to add some protein to your smoothie. The vanilla protein powder makes this smoothie extra creamy and delicious!

This gorgeous pink drink comes from my book, Smoothies & Juices: Prevention Healing Kitchen. Blend it up after your next sweat session and drop me a note to let me know what you think!


WORKOUT RECOVERY SMOOTHIE

Ingredients:

3/4 cup ice

1/4 cup fresh or frozen pitted tart cherries

1/4 cup pomegranate juice

1 scoop unflavored or vanilla protein powder

1 tablespoon chopped walnuts

1 small cooked, peeled beet (or raw beet, scrubbed and chopped)

Preparation:

In a blender, combine ice, cherries, pomegranate juice, protein powder, walnuts, and beet until smooth. Serve in a tall glass.

233 calories, 6g fat (1.5g saturated), 25g protein, 107mg sodium, 20g carbs, 16g sugars (0g added sugar), 2g fiber