Orange Banana Protein Smoothie

This is my favorite smoothie, and my go-to when I want something quick and fresh.  It's fast and easy, and I love knowing that it's got whole fruit and no added juice. I make this one for my kids a lot and they love it.  And it reminds me of an old fashioned Orange Julius.

Because you are starting with whole oranges, you don't need to add any extra juice or other liquid to this.  It's great because you get all the fiber and vitamins from the fruit, not just the juice. You can however add a splash of milk or cream (or almond milk) if you want it a little creamier. 

I am making this for four kids, so this recipe makes four small servings, or two large glasses. You could cut this in half or thirds if you want a serving for one.

Ingredients:

• 3 whole oranges

• 2 frozen bananas

• 1/2 cup protein powder

• 1 Tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions:

• Peel and quarter oranges. I cut off the ends, and then cut down the sides with a sharp knife. So I end up with a whole orange with no skin. Then I cut into quarters.

• Put the oranges in the blender first, and then all the other ingredients, in high powered blender (I use my Vitamix). Start out pulsing slowly so the oranges release their juice. Once you have some liquid in the bottom, then you can turn the blender up to high to puree the whole thing.

You could use fresh bananas, I just like frozen bananas because it makes the smoothie cold. I buy extra bananas, let them get ripe, then peel and break into pieces and freeze. Then I always have bananas in the freezer for smoothies. 

For protein powder I prefer a pure whey powder - with no added fillers or sweeteners.  This is the brand I buy.  It's just whey, nothing else.  It has 15 grams of protein per 1/4 cup, so it  really gives a nice protein boost in the morning.