Healthy Key Lime Pie Smoothie with Protein (Dairy-Free)

I can’t wait for you to try my latest favorite healthy treat, a key lime pie smoothie with protein, which is also dairy-free. I’ve had to clean up my eating for health reasons, so I am replacing my dessert favorites with healthier knock-offs!

This led me to create a new yummy, refined-sugar-free, green smoothie that I’ve been making a few times a week all summer long. It fills the void when I miss the flavor of Key Lime Pie. (I’ve been alternating this recipe with my chocolate peanut butter-flavored one to mix up my menu.)

This key lime formula is chock full of nutrients and protein and includes all the creamy, tangy, sweet flavors of the classic dessert without any guilt. It’s a quick, easy way to fuel your body with something tasty and nutritious.

Table of Contents

Why you’ll love this Smoothie

This smoothie is like a slice of key lime pie in a glass but way healthier! It’s dairy-free, full of protein, and has that perfect blend of sweet and tangy.

It is great for really any time of day: breakfast, midday, dessert, or post-workout snack. I make it when I want something sweet, but I want to stay on track with clean eating.

Smoothies are a quick, convenient way to pack in greens and the good stuff to fuel your body with something tasty.

You may enjoy this green juice recipe as well, it’s just as quick, healthy, and flavorful!

Ingredients

Here’s a quick breakdown of the ingredients in this delicious smoothie.

Almond milk
A creamy, dairy-free base that adds a light, nutty flavor. I usually buy a case of the Kirkland brand, Vanilla Unsweetened flavor at Costco for the best price.

Coconut milk
This important addition gives your smoothie a lush, creamy, ice cream-like texture. Don’t worry; you cannot taste the coconut. I know this because I do not like coconut! I buy the Thai Kitchen brand at Costco in a 6-pack box.

Lime juice
The key ingredient for that tangy key lime pie taste. I sometimes use fresh lime; if I don’t have one in the house, I use Nelly & Joe’s lime juice in a bottle.

Spinach
Toss in a handful of spinach for a greens boost without affecting the flavor. If I also have kale in the frig, I will do half spinach and half kale.

Natural Sweetener of Choice
Use your favorite sweetener to balance the tart lime. I use Swerve granular. (I did not like stevia glycerite drops.)

Vanilla protein powder
Adds a boost of protein while keeping the smoothie sweet and satisfying. Use your favorite vanilla protein powder here. I have been buying this protein powder or the one at Costco.

Avocado
Add some avocado for more not-to-be-missed creaminess and another “healthy fat” bonus! I buy frozen chunks at Target. They even have lime in them! lol

Frozen banana
It provides a natural sweetness, creamy texture and thickens the smoothie. Fresh or frozen works great here.

Garnish, optional
Add a lime slice to rim your glass, sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs or shredded coconut, or top with whipped cream. Top in a few berries or a sprinkle of granola.

Best Equipment for the Job

Here are the kitchen tools I like to have ready and convenient in one spot so I can easily make my healthy smoothies often, with little hassle. (You’ll find shoppable affiliate links below.)

Blender
This is your workhorse to mix everything into a smooth, creamy consistency. If you can afford a powerful blender, I would highly encourage it. I now have a super awesome Blendtec blender and love it!

I used a NutriBullet (2 different models) for years. They both worked well for regular smoothies, but neither handled hard frozen items very well. With lots of ice or frozen fruit, the blades tended to get stuck, so you may need to let those thaw a bit before blending.

Then, I inherited a Blendtec from my in-laws. It is a game-changer and so dang powerful. Now, it is fun and not a chore to make smoothies and juices. Which makes me want to make them all of the time. It rarely slows, though I throw a lot at it, so if it does – I just open the lid and stir quick. I don’t burn it out.

Measuring cups and spoons
To get the proper amounts of each ingredient.

Citrus juicer
To easily squeeze out fresh lime juice if you are using a fresh lime.

Spatula
Helps to scrape out every last bit of the smoothie from the blender. I love to use my silicone scraper, which is curved slightly, making it easier to eat whatever’s left in the blender!

Glass or jar
Serve up your delicious smoothie in your favorite glass, but if you have leftovers, glass Bell jars work great for storing and freezing. I have many jars clean and ready to use. The airtight lids make them perfect for storing and taking with me if I need a grab-and-go.

Straw or spoon (optional)
Depending on how thick your smoothies turn out, I like to use reusable straws or large spoons.

How to Make

Making a green smoothie is pretty easy. Just blend, right? But there are a few important things to consider to get the best results and care for your equipment.

First of all, you’ll be adding all of the ingredients to your blender, and it’s essential to add or layer them in a specific order when making your drink. This helps your blender thoroughly process and can also make it last longer.

Blendtec suggests liquids first (like coconut milk and almond milk, etc.), then soft ingredients (spinach and sweetener, etc), and lastly, hard, frozen ingredients (frozen bananas and ice, etc.). Follow the order of the recipe for the best results. Consult your blender user manual if you have another blender brand.

Larger items (like frozen avocado or bananas) should be cut into smaller pieces (if not fresh) to ensure an even blend and to make it easier for the blades to process the food. You will get the perfect texture by balancing soft and hard ingredients while ensuring enough liquid to discourage freeze-ups.

Blend everything until smooth and make sure it’s well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust if you like more tart lime or more sweetener, for example.

Pour into a glass and enjoy your delicious, dairy-free treat!

FAQ

Can I substitute the almond milk with another type of milk?

You can use your preferred dairy-free milk, such as oat or plant-based milk.

Can I prepare this smoothie in advance?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours, though it’s best enjoyed fresh. I also freeze leftovers in Ball jars.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover smoothie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good shake or stir before drinking.

How can I make this smoothie sweeter?

Adding a bit more stevia, maple syrup, or a few dates can increase the sweetness of your taste. If you prefer, you can also use traditional sugar.

Is there a way to make this smoothie thicker?

Add more frozen banana or a handful of ice to achieve a thicker consistency.

How can I boost the protein content?

You can increase the amount of protein powder, or I add a spoonful of chia and hemp seeds.

More Healthy Recipes

Click the recipes below for more delicious ideas!

Homemade Keto Whipped Cream
Healthy Chocolate and Banana Protein Shake
Sweet and Salty Protein Bites
No-Bake Brownie Protein Bites
Best Gluten-Free Saltine Crackers
Easy Chinese Style Sauteed Shrimp
Zoodle Salad with Spicy Thai Peanut Sauce
Gluten-Free Sugar Cookie Recipe

Tips

These suggestions help ensure your smoothie turns out delicious every time!

Blend in stages
Start with the liquids and softer ingredients, then add ice and frozen items to ensure everything blends smoothly.

Taste and tweak
Give it a taste before serving, and adjust the lime juice or sweetener if needed to get your perfect balance of flavors.

Recipe

Are you hungry? Let’s make a smoothie!

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xo,
Cindy