Yogurt Protein Parfait (dairy free, gluten free)
I don’t know that I can call this one a “recipe”, but it’s something that I make almost daily and recommend to clients all the time. There are a million ways to change it up. I’ll give you the basics and brainstorm so ideas below…
But for now, this grain-free, dairy-free parfait hits all the marks. Packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, and omega-3s and 6’s, along with lots of vitamins and minerals, this breakfast is muscle-building, gut-enhancing, and blood sugar-balancing. It will keep you full until lunch, and stave off cravings.
My breakfast of champions.
Yogurt Protein Parfait (gf/df)
Prep time: 3 minutes
INGREDIENTS
2/3 - 1 cup of non-dairy yogurt
1 scoop vanilla protein powder (I use Truvani)*
1 scoop of Acai powder
1/4 - 1/2 cup berries
1 T Hemp hearts
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a bowl, combine the yogurt, protein powder, and acai powder. Mix it all up - if it’s too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency. Top with berries and hemp hearts, and enjoy!
*NOTES:
Yogurt: This is a loaded topic and probably deserves a post all its own. I really like Kite Hill Greek Style Unsweetened Yogurt with this (caveat: I would never it plain - not great taste, but mixed up, I love it). The Kite Hill does have the enemy ingredient “natural flavors,” but as it’s listed last on the label, I go ahead with it. Harmless Harvest plain unsweetened yogurt is a nice option that is low in fat content (good for those watching their weight). Culina is another great brand of plant-based yogurt. Coconut-based yogurts like Cocjune or Cocoyo also work very well. If you tolerate dairy, a nice Greek unflavored yogurt would be an excellent choice.
Protein Powder: The world is your oyster here. There are a ton of great brands out there, and you can go wild with flavor. I stick with Truvani vanilla, but you do you.
Acai powder: while I really like the tang of the powder, acai is loaded with powerful plant compounds that act as antioxidants and benefit your brain, heart, and overall health.. You can add it or skip it. If you love the color blue, give this blue spirulina a shot - it’s another favorite variation.
Berries: In the morning, I stick to berries if I’m having fruit, as they are high in fiber and nutrients, and tend not to spike my glucose levels like more sugary fruits such as bananas, mango, melon, pineapple, etc.
Toppings: Again, this subject probably merits its own post, but I try to limit my carb intake during the front half of the day. So for toppings, I look to nuts and seeds. Hemp hearts, pepitas, walnuts, flax seeds, chia sprinkle, almond slivers, or grain-free granola. Organic, sugar-free nut butters are another delicious option!
The world is your oyster! Another version of the parfait, this time with blue spirulina and topped with pepitas.
Disclosure: When posting recipes I often include links to products I use to help readers find specific items. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I would never recommend something I don’t myself use or believe in.