This Protein-Packed Mango Smoothie Will Be Your New Favorite Drink

By Dominique Michelle Astorino
POPSUGAR Photography | Dominique Astorino
POPSUGAR Photography | Dominique Astorino

Love fruit smoothies, but want a little more protein? We've got a trick for you. Kick your smoothie up a notch with cottage cheese. What?! Yes. Cottage cheese. It's the perfect creamy smoothie base; it's low-sugar and high in protein, and turns up the volume on your fruit smoothie — without any protein powder. And the tart sweetness of mango is the perfect complement to cottage cheese, which — we admit — adds a savory, well, cheesiness to smoothies. Bright, acidic mango cuts through the cottage cheese, for a protein-packed smoothie that's surprisingly addictive for being so simple.

When you pour this blend into a glass, you'll notice a velvety, thick, almost pudding-like consistency. It is beyond decadent, but while the texture is silky smooth and rich, the smoothie is still light and refreshing, making it a perfect spring or summer drink. The best part? Superstar cottage cheese brings 15 grams of protein in one small glass.

Mango Protein Smoothie

Cook Time5 minutes
Yield2 8-oz servings
Calories163

From Dominique Astorino, POPSUGAR Fitness

INGREDIENTS

    1 cup frozen organic, cubed mango 3/4 cup low-fat cottage cheese 1/4 cup soy milk 1/2 teaspoon organic honey (optional) 1 tablespoon raw chia seeds For garnish: 1 teaspoon raw chia seeds

    INSTRUCTIONS

    1. Blend cottage cheese, soy milk, and honey until the mixture becomes a light, smooth, whipped liquid.

    2. Add frozen mango; blend on high until smooth. If the smoothie is too thick, add more milk as needed.

    3. Once the mixture is smooth, add in chia seeds. Pulse until stirred thoroughly. Top with a sprinkle of chia seeds. Enjoy immediately!

    Notes

    This recipe calls for frozen mangoes, to add a bit of frosty freshness. If you'd rather sub in fresh mango, go for it! Just make sure your fruit is chilled to keep your drink cold and refreshing. Honey is optional, as the mangoes are already so sweet to begin with. The last note about the recipe is in regards to the milk, which is used to thin the mix a bit so it's not too thick. You can use soy milk, which has a great amount of protein, or substitute with another milk depending on your dietary needs and preferences.