I was never a fan of breakfast, even as a kid. It also took me a long time to realize that while I loved bagels and pancakes, the heavy carbs would leave my sleepy and unproductive. In the quest to make some changes in my life several years ago, I adapted a smoothie recipe from Martha Stewart’s Everyday Food in 2011 into my morning drink.

What I like about the smoothie is that it leaves me full for several hours and gives me the energy that I need to be productive, especially because while I don’t jump out of bed in the morning, I am my most productive in the am hours.

Having a little fat in the smoothie is always important to keep us feeling full– and the reason I use peanut butter, but haven’t found the right fruit smoothie recipe for me.. I have used almond milk in the recipe in the past and I add coffee as a small caffeine boost– just enough for me. Finally, I add unflavored protein powder because I don’t want to taste it!

This recipe has saved me on days where I don’t have time for lunch but I need to keep myself going. If I didn’t make the smoothie, I might not get to lunch until 2:00 or 3:00 pm.

Feel free to adjust the amounts as they work for you.

The Michelle Smoothie

Several ice cubes
1 banana
1 scoop unflavored Jarrow protein powder
1 tablespoon (or more) peanut butter (I use the unsalted creamy from Trader Joe’s)
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon instant coffee

Add the ingredients as they are listed above and then blend until everything is mixed well.