3 Protein-Packed Smoothies to Kick-Start Your Day

Still having a hard time removing dairy from your diet? (Because, same.) Thankfully, there’s an easy way to wean yourself off the stuff without going into a cheese-withdrawal-induced rage. The secret? Quark.

What is Quark? 

Quark is technically a type of cheese, but it’s much healthier than your typical store-bought Philadelphia. It’s made from milk that’s been altered by lactic acid (aka “acidification”), which causes the whey in the milk to split from the curd. The remaining solids are then used to create Quark.

Quark, unlike other soft cheeses, doesn’t contain rennet, has no added sugar or salt, and is naturally low in fat. It’s also packed with protein and vitamin A! (#epotimeofhealth) Because Quark is mild and creamy, it’s perfect for sweet and savory meals. You can easily switch out the cream cheese, yogurt, or cottage cheese with a healthy helping of Quark.

Quark also makes for a great, high-protein low-fat (grab-and-go) breakfast option—just add some fruit and granola, spread it on toast, or blend it in a smoothie and go. If you’re still unsure of what to make, here are a few smoothie recipes to get you started.

Royal Green Tea Pineapple Smoothie

Ingredients 

• 1/2 cup Quark
• 1 1/2 cups green tea (unsweetened)
• 1 Frozen banana
• 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
• 1 cup ice (cubed)

Directions

1. Steep the green tea for three minutes and let cool.
2. Discard the bags and pour the tea into the blender; add other ingredients.
3. Blend until smooth and add honey (or a sweetener of your choice for additional sweetness, if needed).
4. Enjoy!

Royal Fruit Punch Smoothie

Ingredients 

• 1/2 cup Quark
• 1 cup frozen blueberries, strawberries, or cherries (stoned)
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/2 Frozen banana

Directions 

1. Blend ingredients until smooth (about 30 seconds).
2. Add ice cubes (for a thicker consistency).

Royal Bananarama Chocolate Smoothie

Ingredients 

• 1/2 cup fresh Quark
• 1/2 Banana (peeled and sliced)
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• 3 Tbsp. unsweetened chocolate powder
• 2 cups ice
• Vanilla pulp from 1/2 real vanilla bean
• 1 tsp. honey

Directions 

1. Put all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
2. In case you want or need more liquid, add low-fat milk or almond milk.

The above recipes were created by the Queen of Quark.