Any good smoothie should taste rich and creamy, but what if you're off dairy [1] and the oh-so-popular Greek yogurt is a no-no? Aside from non-dairy milks and yogurts, here are three ingredients that will offer a boost of protein, healthy fats, and fiber — plus add the creamy consistency you crave.
Avocado
For creaminess and added healthy fats and fiber to satiate hunger, avocados are the perfect smoothie ingredient. Just stick to one-quarter of the fruit, as it's pretty high in calories. This grape, spinach, and avocado smoothie [2] is packed with skin-clearing ingredients.
Beans
If you're missing the protein in Greek yogurt, white beans add 2.5 grams per 55-calorie quarter-cup serving. And because they're flavorless, you'll have no idea you're sipping them down. This metabolism-boosting smoothie [3] contains cannellini beans, green tea, and broccoli — just replace the Greek yogurt with soy yogurt.
Tofu
While whey protein powder is a great way to increase the protein in your smoothie, it can cause bloating or gas if you're not used to it. Tofu is another source of protein, but it's easy to digest and blends up super-creamy; it's the perfect smoothie ingredient. This smoothie that tastes like a vanilla milkshake [4] is made with half a cup of soft tofu.