This Is the Sneaky Way I Add Protein to My Smoothies—and It’s Not a Chalky Powder

Whitney English, RD, the registered dietitian behind Plant-Based Juniors, isn't a big fan of protein powder in general. But she also knows it's not at all required in order to infuse her smoothies with a solid source of plant-based protein. Instead of going for one of the trendiest options—aka pea protein, which is everywhere right now—she decided to go straight to the source and grab a bag of frozen peas out of her freezer.

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"The popularity of pea protein got me thinking: Why not just throw the whole pea in? And ya know what, it worked," she wrote on Instagram. "Tossing frozen green peas into your smoothie adds protein (4 grams per 1/2 cup), fiber, and creamy texture without any weird aftertaste."

For the perfect protein-packed smoothie, English recommends combining 1/2 cup of frozen peas with a banana, unsweetened vanilla soy milk, frozen blueberries, hemp seeds, and peanut butter. What you're left with is a morning beverage that not only energizes you and keeps you full until lunch, but also leaves you feeling totally satisfied. Who knows—peas might be the small but mighty addition your blends have been missing.

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For more fiber in the morning, try this acacia smoothie:

This vegan protein is made up of—wait for it—air. Then find out why one of the best sources of vegan protein for your smoothies is beer. Yes, really.