Yes, I work out frequently, often twice a day. It’s not a punishment; I crave it. But, when my body needs to recover, I take a rest day. I’m not a slave to any training plan.
Yes, I eat with my health in mind, usually every meal of the day. Again, it’s not a punishment; my body craves the lean proteins and fresh produce. But, when my taste buds need a treat, I have something sweet. I’m not an extremist or a denier when it comes to what I eat.
Hey, it was my birthday!
Full disclosure, I eat M&Ms, cinnamon jelly beans and other sugary things on occasion. I don’t even feel regret. Here’s a peek at an unashamedly sugary recipe I created for a special celebration (It was actually just published in Simple & Delicious Magazine – August issue). Say so in the comments and I’ll send you the recipe.
However, usually my “sweet” will be something that provides a higher level of satiety like nuts and dried fruit, fresh fruit and Greek yogurt, or (yum) a protein smoothie. I like these options because my energy stays high; there is nothing worse than eating snack and then crashing a few hours later. Right now, I’m really digging Designer Whey’s “Sustained Energy” Premium Protein Powder. They sent me a couple canisters to test out, Chocolate Velvet and Vanilla Bean. Each serving size only has 100 calories yet provides long-lasting energy thanks to a blend of fast-absorbing whey protein and slower absorbing soy and casein proteins (16 grams of protein per serving). In addition, each scoop provides 5 grams of fiber (20% DV), an excellent source of 19 vitamins and minerals, and delicious taste made with all-natural flavors and sweeteners – including real cocoa or vanilla bean pieces. And, for those of you with special dietary needs, this protein powder is Kosher-certified and gluten-free.
Without a doubt, the Chocolate Velvet is really delicious. But, I may have a slight preference for the Vanilla Bean because it makes an excellent starting point for so many flavor profiles in my smoothie making mania – strawberry-banana, chai-spiced, pina colada, peppermint (pictured above) and more! Since my mind has been fixated on root beer floats (ahh, remember the fudge?), I decided a root beer float smoothie would satisfy my soda shop hankerings. So, simple to make yet so yummy, this smoothie is a perfect way to refuel after a workout or run. Remember, you need to take in adequate protein within 30 minutes of an intense session to aid in muscle recovery.
Root Beer Float Smoothie (with Designer Whey Sustained Energy Protein Powder)
- 1 ½ cups almond milk
- 1 scoop Designer Whey Sustained Energy Protein Powder (Vanilla Bean)
- ½ teaspoon root beer extract (I use Zaterain’s – find it on the baking aisle near the vanilla)
- 1 teaspoon Stevia
- 1 cup ice
Toss everything in the blender, process until smooth. Add more or less ice depending on a preference for consistency. Pour in a tall glass (preferably a tall float glass or mug for effect) and enjoy!
Serves 1.
Root beer extract?! What! This I need to find! I love that you made a protein shake that tastes like soda! That just sounds so good!
You can get this on the baking aisle near the vanilla and all the other flavored extracts.
ooooh and MY BIRTHDAY IS NEXT WEEK.
I need to make this for me 🙂
Yay, Happy Early Birthday!
i love the vanilla bean better than the chocolate better too! love your idea for the root beer float smoothie! 🙂 well done!
Thanks! Root beer floats (even as a protein smoothie) are one of those things that can always put a smile on your face, no matter what!
I’m “saying so” in the comments–would love to have you e-mail me the recipe for the unabashedly sweet fudge!
Okay, y’all — here’s the recipe:
1 teaspoon plus 3/4 cup butter divided
3 cups sugar
1 can (5oz) evaporated milk
1 pkg. (10 -12 oz) white baking chips
1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme
1/2 teaspoon vallina extract
2 teaspoons root beer extract (concentrate)(like McCormicks or Zaterain’s)
Line a 9″ square baking pan with foil, grease foil with t tsp butter. In large heavy saucepan, combine sugar, milk and remaining butter. Bring to a rapid boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook and stir for 4 minutes.
Remove from heat, stir in baking chips and marshmallow creme until melted. Pour 1/3 mixture into small bowl; stir in vanilla.
Stir in root beer extract to remaining mixture, immediately spread into prepared pan. Spread vanilla mixture over top. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm.
Using foil, lift fudge out of pan. Remove foil and cut fudge into 1″ squares. Store in the fridge.
Wow, chocolate velvet DOES sound delicious! Also I thought in the picture at first glance that the big bag of M&Ms in front was an apron. How awesome would that apron be?? lol
Lol, I need an apron like that!
This recipe looks delicious, I can’t wait to try it!
thanks, hope you enjoy!
Birthday M&Ms and a root beer soda smoothie — doesn’t get much better in life!
Oh yes it does get better, just toss in that bottle of Balies
I’ve tried Muscle Milk and EAS Lite protein powders…the Muscle Milk has too many calories for me and the EAS lite tasted horrible!! I’ve ordered a sample of CLICK Protein and I think I’ll try this one too…surely I’ll find one that works for me 🙂
Yeah, I think it’s trial and error until you find the one works best for you, both for performance and taste. There is one particular brand out there that has a consistency that makes me gag 😉
I could go for one of those right now! Perfect for a friday night beer, right? hehe