Collagen Key Lime Pie Smoothie

With the refreshing flavor of fresh limes, velvety richness of avocado and sweetness of dates, this smoothie is not only delicious, but packed full of nutrition powerhouse ingredients.

This smoothie was inspired by a simple homemade lime yogurt I’ve make at home for years. Simply adding fresh lime zest and juice to vanilla or plain Greek yogurt creates a full- flavored taste reminiscent of key lime pie.

In addition to the obvious ingredients for this smoothie – lime zest and fresh lime juice – I also added some (perhaps) surprising ones: dates and frozen banana for sweetness and avocado for some heart-healthy fats (and nice green hue). I also added a collagen protein boost which you can easily not include if you’d rather and will have no impact on the delish taste of this smoothie!

What’s with all the buzz about collagen??

Collagen has been showing up on everything from beauty products to supplements. Not sure what it is exactly? Collagen is a protein our body naturally makes that acts like the glue or scaffolding for our skin, joints, hair and nails. When it comes to the skin, collagen provides that volume which helps keep skin looking plump and wrinkle-free. With age, there’s a gradual loss of collagen so the idea is that supplementation like in powder form can help replenish what’s lost and improve the look of skin. When it comes to the research, results on the effectiveness of collagen supplements are mixed.* But, if you’re like me and open to trying easy add-ons in my diet to see how they may benefit your skin, then you may want to give it a try!

There are a TON of collagen powders out there, but I’ve been using one my sister recommended and it’s been the perfect fit.** It’s flavorless (I don’t care for flavored protein powders), can dissolve in both cold or hot foods (I also add it to oatmeal) and is one of the more affordable choices (a 7 oz container is $10 at Trader Joe’s).

Collagen Key Lime Pie Smoothie

Makes 2 servings, 250 calories each (14 grams of protein)

Ingredients:

1/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt

1 cup reduced fat milk (or milk of choice)

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

2 dates, without pit

The zest and lime juice from one lime

1/3 avocado (about 2-3 slices)

1/2 frozen banana

2 scoops collagen (I use Great Lakes Gelatin Collagen Hydrolsate available at Trader Joes or Amazon)

Shredded coconut and graham cracker crumbs (optional toppings)

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Directions:

1. Combine and blend first four ingredients.
2. Add remaining ingredients (lime zest and juice to collagen). Blend until smooth.
3. Pour into two cups, top with shredded coconut and graham cracker crumbs and enjoy!

Like all smoothies, you can customize this recipe to your liking. If you prefer more sweetness, try adding a whole frozen banana and/or honey. Like more citrus? Add more lime juice and zest and a splash of orange juice.

Have you tried adding collagen powder to your diet? If so, what’s your favorite way to eat or drink it?

XOXO,

Emily

P.S. If you’re looking for more detailed info about collagen, here are excellent science-based articles that I’ve referenced recently:

*Collagen: ‘Fountain of Youth’ Or Edible Hoax?”

*Can Collagen Supplements Make Your Skin Younger?

**The Best Collagen Powders for Women, According to a Nutritionist