The Best Beginner Friendly Spirulina Smoothie

Workout recovery smoothie packed with superfood nutrients

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Have you tried spirulina?

Spirulina is a blue-green algae packed with protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It supports the immune system and improves energy levels — perfect for workout recovery.

Spirulina has a distinctive taste and smell that takes a bit of getting used to. The vibrant blue or green color will make a smoothie an intense green or blue, which isn’t always the most appealing, depending.

Below is one of the best beginner-friendly spirulina smoothie recipes I recommend. It’s a yummy favorite and a perfect place for you to begin.

Gradual Steps

When I started incorporating spirulina twenty years ago, I made the mistake of going all in. The more, the merrier, right? Not so much. It was the greenest (swamp-like) smoothie ever.

My kids wouldn’t touch it, and I honestly couldn’t blame them. But with some experimenting, I was able to create smoothies that were healthy, good-tasting, and kid-approved too.

Less is more, especially in the beginning. It’s best to gradually increase the amount over time so you can get used to it.

Incorporating healthier foods takes time. For me, it was a gradual process with lots of trial and error. However, experimenting is half the fun; it’s worth learning what works best for you.

I learned that gradual steps bring about lots of positive change; it doesn’t have to be all at once.

Spirulina can be overpowering, so I incorporate it with other fruits to balance out the flavors of the smoothie. Now, I also enjoy the green-green spirulina smoothies with kale, but it took some time.

Make sure to use a high-quality brand of spirulina, as the quality varies greatly. Choose one with a milder taste and smell that's also been tested for purity and contaminants. This is what I use.

Workout recovery smoothies packed with superfood nutrients are the perfect go-to for feeling energized, contributing to your health, and peaking performance.

Below is my favorite recovery smoothie — it’s delicious, with all the benefits.

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Chocolate Cherry-Wrapped Spirulina Smoothie

Cacao nibs and cherries are rich in antioxidants, help reduce inflammation, and support muscle recovery. Spirulina has anti-inflammatory properties, making this a powerful recovery drink that helps reduce muscle soreness and speed up workout recovery.

Ingredients

• 2 cups frozen cherries

• 1 cup almond or oat milk

• 1-1/2 scoops chocolate protein or collagen powder (or substitute cocoa)

• 1 frozen banana

• 1 tsp spirulina

• 1 tsp flax seed

• 1 tsp hemp seed

• 1 tsp cacao nibs

Directions

1. Place all ingredients, except the cacao nibs, in order in a high-speed blender.

2. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3. Top with cacao nibs.

4. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

• Use a frozen banana for a thick creamy smoothie

• If you prefer it sweeter, add more banana or a touch of maple syrup.