Cooking With Plants Recipe by Anja Cass

22 October 2025

Today I’m sharing one of my favourite quick and easy smoothies — perfect for mornings when you need a burst of energy, or those afternoons when you’re feeling a little tired and want a natural pick-me-up.

This smoothie is creamy, zesty, and loaded with omega-3s from chia seeds — great for your brain, hormones, and overall energy. Plus, it tastes a bit like lemon cheesecake in a glass! 

🥣 Ingredients

• 1 cup plant-based milk (soy, almond, or oat)
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• ½ banana (fresh or frozen for extra creaminess)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (or vanilla protein powder)
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 small lemon)

Optional add-ins:

• 1 tsp hemp seeds (extra protein)
• 1 tsp ground flax seeds (for balanced blood sugar)

Method

1. Add ingredients to a blender.
   Start with your plant-based milk, then add chia seeds, banana, vanilla, and fresh lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
   If you’re using a small blender, this takes just a few seconds! The lemon might slightly curdle the milk, but that’s totally fine — it creates a buttermilk-like tang that makes the flavor amazing.
3. Pour and enjoy!
   Serve immediately for a light, zesty smoothie — or let it sit for a few minutes if you prefer it thicker and creamier (the chia seeds will naturally thicken it up).

🌿 Tips & Variations

💚 Add a handful of spinach for a green twist.
💚 Swap the banana for frozen mango or pineapple for a tropical vibe.
💚 Turn it into a dessert-style treat by blending in a few soaked cashews or a splash of coconut yogurt.

💚 Get More Simple Plant-Based Recipes!

If you love recipes like this, don’t miss my Free 7-Day Kickstart Meal Plan — it’s full of quick, nourishing meals to help you feel amazing on a plant-based diet.

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Enjoy your zesty lemon chia smoothie — it’s sunshine in a glass! ☀️