Cherry Tofu Protein Smoothie
While delicious, we thought the original version of this Cherry Tofu Protein Smoothie by the United Soybean Board was too high in the carbs to protein ratio. With a few simple modifications which didn’t detract from the wonderful summer flavor at all, we made this a much more healthful breakfast.
We added one scoop of our favorite protein boost UNJURY UNFLAVORED PROTEIN to this smoothie before blending. Each serving is increased by 40 calories, but adds another 10 grams of protein per serving (one scoop of Unjury = 80 calories, 20 grams of protein, 0 carbs, 0 fat). Unjury Unflavored adds no flavor, is pleasant and easy to digest. We recommend it highly. You could use Unjury Chocolate for a “Chocolate Cherry” flavor, or Unjury Vanilla for a “Cherry Vanilla” flavor.
We also reduced the calories and sugar from the cherries and juice. We used fresh cherries and cherry juice, and, on one occasion we used plentiful orange zest and reduced sugar orange juice. On another occasion we used Tropicana Sugar Free OrangeAde in place of the orange juice. One 12 oz can has only 5 calories and no carbs, yet is made with real orange juice — not “flavoring.” It has a sweet orange juice flavor and doesn’t taste like your typical “fake powder” mix at all — we recommend it highly for any recipe that calls for an orange juice flavor, without all those carbs.
Ingredients
- ½ cup silken tofu (or more to taste)
- ¼ cup sugar free maraschino cherries (or use fresh cherries)
- ¼ cup sugar free maraschino cherry juice (or use low sugar cherry juice)
- ½ cup reduced calorie orange ade
- cherries for garnish
- 1 scoop protein powder (optional, but choose vanilla or plain, unsweetened)
Instructions
- Combine tofu,1/4 cup maraschino cherries, cherry juice and orange juice in blender container.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour into a tall 16 ounce glass, for one, or divide the calorie count and serve in two 8-ounce glasses.
- Garnish each glass with two maraschino cherries.
Made a few tweaks combining cherries and berries, but used some tofu we were getting tired of eating and this was quite different from our usual green smoothies, and like a dessert treat
Pretty decent. Thanks for the sugar free cherries recipe link.