Bursting with vibrant tart cherry, warming ginger, and a velvety smooth texture, this elixir delivers a refreshing daily wellness boost without any excess sugar. It effortlessly bridges the gap between functional health drinks and macro-friendly nutrition, offering a delicious way to enjoy low-carb recipes while hitting your daily wellness targets.
Equipment
- High-speed blender
- Small saucepan
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened tart cherry juice (or unsweetened almond milk base)
- 1/2 cup frozen organic dark sweet cherries or raspberries (ruby red hue)
- 1 scoop (25g) unflavored or vanilla whey protein isolate (or vegan protein/collagen peptides)
- 1/2 inch fresh ginger root, peeled and grated
- 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
- A tiny pinch of black pepper (enhances turmeric absorption)
- 1/2 tsp Ceylon cinnamon
Instructions
- Heat the base: Pour the unsweetened tart cherry juice into a small saucepan over medium-low heat, bringing it just to a gentle warmth (about 120°F / 49°C) for 2 to 3 minutes without letting it boil.
- Infuse spices: Stir in the freshly grated ginger, ground turmeric, pinch of black pepper, and Ceylon cinnamon, allowing the warm liquid to steep for 2 minutes to release their aromatic flavors.
- Transfer to blender: Carefully pour the warm spiced liquid into a high-speed blender along with the frozen dark cherries.
- Incorporate protein: Add the scoop of protein isolate on top of the mixture to prevent direct clumping against warm spots.
- Blend to velvety smoothness: Secure the lid and blend on high speed for 45 to 60 seconds until the mixture turns a deep ruby red, uniform, and frothy with a velvety texture.
- Serve: Pour immediately into your favorite glass and enjoy your high-protein anti-inflammatory boost.
Notes
Storage: Best consumed immediately, but can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 2 days; shake well before drinking. Reheating: If chilled, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, taking care not to overheat and curdle the protein. Allergy Notes: Easily made dairy-free by using plant-based pea or hemp protein powder and an almond milk base. Flavor Boosts: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a few drops of pure vanilla extract to elevate the tart berry profile.
Nutrition
Calories: 165 · Fats: 1.5g · Cholesterol: 5mg · Sodium: 110mg · Potassium: 380mg · Total Carbohydrates: 14g · Fiber: 3g · Net Carbs: 11g · Sugars: 9g · Protein: 25g · Calcium: 85mg
