Inspired By Elotes – Copycat Panera Mexican Street Corn Chowder
The Autumn Equinox officially marks the beginning of flavorful soup season in my house. This Copycat Panera Mexican Street Corn Chowder is the perfect meal to warm up a chilly night. Just grab a thick slice of crusty bread or pair this soup with a salad for the best hearty soup and salad combo. Another idea, sprinkle in some black beans for added fiber and protein to make this a super vegetable soup that please the taste buds. Moreover. not only does this make a delicious cold weather soup, but it is fantastic as a summer corn chowder.
This copycat recipe is a Copycat Panera Mexican Street Corn Soup and its even better than panera’s corn chowder. My variation of this Panera bread soup is healthy, delicious, and easy to make. Not to mention, way less expensive to make it yourself!
So lets make a gluten-free and optionally vegan Panera Mexican Street Corn Soup that can be enjoyed as the leaves turn and the crunchy sounds of autumn emerge.
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Why I Made This Recipe
Versatile: I love making this recipe because it is so versatile. It is a wonderful summer sweet corn chowder but also works as a cozy autumn or winter corn chowder recipe.
I love making soup: I love Panera’s soups, especially Panera corn soup recipes!
For the love of elote: But maybe the most important of all, I love Mexican street corn, also known as elote! This soup is inspired by the flavors of elote.
Do you also love elote?! Check out this recipe Elote (Mexican Street Corn) recipe by Isabel Eats! Isabel is a first generation Mexican American who loves to cook and make authentic Mexican recipes with a twist!
Corn – I refer to grilled or fire-roasted corn but frozen or canned corn works well too. This recipe tastes best with sweet summer corn or sweet corn kernels but is truly delicious as a comfort food year round.
Potatoes – I use Yukon gold but you can also use russet potatoes or red potatoes
Onion – yellow, sweet, or white onions. In a pinch you can use dehydrated onion as well.
Garlic – or garlic powder
Red Bell Pepper – I like to use red peppers but any other colored bell pepper works. I love the pop of red from the red bell peppers.
Poblano Peppers – you could also use jalapenos or both!
Vegetable broth – homemade or store-bought vegetable broth or vegetable stock also works in this recipe
Coconut Milk – not vegan? Heavy cream taste great too!
Seasonings – Cumin, Chili, Pepper
Avocado oil – you could also use avocado oil or butter.
Option: For a super creamy broth option to stir in some neufchatel cheese or cream cheese.
Panera Mexican Street Corn Soup Toppings
Some of my favorite toppings for this recipe include:
Cilantro
Fresh squeezed lime juice
A sprinkle of Tajin or hot sauce
Cotija cheese or sour cream (if vegan omit this topper)
Black beans for a bit more fiber and protein
How To Make This Recipe
Roast corn
Roast corn in the oven at 400 degrees F for 30min. You can do this many ways, below are 2 ways to roast corn on the cob.
Husks intact: Peel back the corn husk and remove the corn silks. Then, tie the husks back with kitchen twine.
Foil Wrap: Wrap each husked ear of corn with foil.
Then, remove the husk or foil and broil in the oven for 2 to 5 minutes until slightly charred.
Allow the corn to cook and remove the kernels from the cob. See this video for guidance if needed.
If using frozen or already cooked corn skip this step.
Sauté vegetables
In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat the avocado over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, red pepper, and poblano pepper. Saute for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables have softened.
Add Seasonings
Stir in the cumin and chili powder. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
Blend corn
Transfer half the roasted corn kernels to a blender or food processor along with 1 cup of vegetable broth. Blend until smooth for a creamy texture
Combine ingredients
Add the remaining corn kernels, blended corn mixture, diced potatoes, and remaining vegetable broth to the pot.
Simmer and add Cream
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, pour in the heavy cream and continue to simmer for 5 minutes.
Season and serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings and spice level to taste.
Ladle the corn soup into bowls. Add toppings to suit your preferences.
Serve this soup in an airtight container for 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy!
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FAQs (Ask a Dietitian!)
What does Mexican street corn taste like?
Mexican Street corn tastes sweet, creamy, savory, tangy, refreshing, and at times, spicy!
What does elote mean?
Elote translates to “corn” in English, but specifically the mature ear of corn, the kind of corn on the cob that one would cook and eat. Maiz is the general term for corn, encompassing all stages of corn’s growth.
Why is it called Mexican street corn?
Elote or Mexican Street Corn is a popular and iconic street food in Mexico often sold by street vendors, especially in urban areas and festivals.
Mexican Street Corn consists of grilled or boiled corn on the cob. It is served with various seasonings and toppings.
Typically, these toppings include Mayonnaise or Mexican Crema, lime, cilantro, seasonings like chili powder and cayenne pepper, and cheese like cotija.
Health Benefits of Corn!
Explore the health benefits of corn! Perfect for a flexitarian lifestyle, corn is a great source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals!
1yellow onion, dicedwhite or sweet onion works too
2clovesgarlic, minced
1red pepper, diced
1poblano pepper, diced
1tspcumin
1tspchili powder
4cupsvegetable brothhomemade or store bought
1cancoconut milkor 1 cup heavy cream
1/2tspkosher saltto taste
1/4tsp black pepper
Toppings
minced cilantro, lime juice or zest, cotija cheeseper preference
Instructions
Roast Corn
*Roast corn in the oven at 400 degrees F for 30min. You can do this many ways, below are 2 ways to roast corn on the cob.
Husks intact: Trim the end of the corn husk. Pop it in the oven. The silks will peel back easily after roasting. Foil Wrap: Wrap each husked ear of corn with foil. Pop it in the oven.
Allow the corn to cook and remove the kernels from the cob. See this video for guidance if needed.
*If using frozen or already cooked corn skip this step.
Sauté vegetables
In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat the avocado over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, red pepper, and poblano pepper. Saute for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables have softened.
Toast Spices
Stir in the cumin and chili powder. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
Blend corn
Transfer half the roasted corn kernels to a blender or food processor along with 1 cup of vegetable broth. Blend until smooth.
Combine ingredients
Add the remaining corn kernels, blended corn mixture, diced potatoes, and remaining vegetable broth to the pot.
Simmer
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, pour in the coconut milk and continue to simmer for 5 minutes.
Season and serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings and spice level to taste.
Ladle the corn soup into bowls. Add toppings to suit your preferences. Enjoy!
This Southwest Chicken Bowl is made with quinoa and is a wonderful addition to a Flexitarian diet. You could keep your meal vegan by omitting the chicken from your Southwest Bowls. You might even add a bit of southwest marinated tofu or tempeh.
Southwest Bowls have a zesty lime vinaigrette drizzled over quinoa, brown rice, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and other fresh flavors. With tomato season emerging, this is a great recipe to have in the queue.
Why You Need To Make Southwest Chicken Bowls
This recipe is great for the whole family. It is healthy with tons of fresh veggies, an easy meal with simple ingredients, and is an absolute delicious recipe. I like to whip this up on busy weeknights. I meal prep some of the ingredients in advance like the quinoa and chicken and have this as a great option for busy nights.
In this article, I review why I love this Southwest Chicken Bowl, the ingredients, how to make this recipe, how to pair Southwest Bowls, and some fun facts about tomatoes, one of the key ingredients in this recipe.
Southwest Chicken Bowl Ingredients
Southwest Grilled Chicken
Skinless Chicken Breasts – I use skinless and boneless chicken breasts but you could also use chicken thighs, bone in thighs, or bone in breasts.
Southwest Chicken Marinade
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa & Rice – use white rice or any other rice
Black Beans
Corn
Cherry Tomatoes
Red Onion
Fresh Cilantro and Lime Wedges
Jalapeno or Poblano Peppers & Bell Peppers
Southwest Vinaigrette – made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, fresh lime juice and zest, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Option to include cayenne pepper for a little heat!
Mix all the marinade ingredients together in a casserole pan (with a lid). Add chicken and massage the marinade into the chicken.
If using a bag, seal it tightly, pressing out any excess air.
Place the marinating chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but preferably for several hours or overnight. The longer you marinate, the more the flavors will penetrate the chicken.
Occasionally turn or massage the chicken in the marinade to ensure all sides are evenly coated. This helps enhance the flavor distribution.
When you’re ready to cook the chicken, remove it from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the used marinade, as it may contain bacteria from the raw chicken.
If Grilling the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Close the grill lid and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side.
Avoid flipping the chicken frequently as it can cause it to dry out. Flip the chicken only once, halfway through the cooking time.
To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
If Baking the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Make sure they are not crowded together.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the chicken to become tender.
For the Southwest Chicken Bowl
Add all the Southwest Quinoa Salad ingredients (quinoa, tomatoes, etc) in a bowl and set aside.
Now make your vinaigrette. Add all the Southwest Vinaigrette ingredients to a bowl and whisk until combined. Taste the vinaigrette and add seasonings per taste preference.
Toss the quinoa salad with the vinaigrette. Finish the meal by spooning the desired amount of salad into a bowl and top with chicken.
Option to top with optional toppings like diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or lime juice. Enjoy!
Variations of This Southwest Chicken Bowl
This recipe could be adapted for various cravings and tastes with just a few swaps.
Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or a plant-based protein
Change up your veggies depending on what is in season or what you have on hand.
Switch up the marinade and dressing. You can make this exact recipe with just a switch of the dressing. Go for something creamy like a creamy Cilantro Cashew Sauce or a smokey chipotle-style vinaigrette!
Southwest Chicken Bowl Storage and Leftovers
This recipe lasts for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The cooked chicken should be stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap to maintain its quality and prevent contamination.
This recipe is excellent for meal prepping! This recipe has 6 servings, and it’s just Jacob and I eating! Depending on how much we are running (marathon training burns a lot of calories) this is enough leftovers for 3 or 4 meals.
It is also great to take for lunch because it is excellent right out of the fridge or lunch box.
FAQ (Ask a Dietitian!)
Is Chicken and Rice healthy for weight loss?
Chicken and rice can be a healthy option for weight loss. If prepared in a nutritious way, chicken and rice can be eaten as part of a balanced diet full of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, fiber lean proteins, and healthy fats.
This recipe incorporates chicken and quinoa. These are also excellent choices for a healthy meal with lean protein, fiber, and carbohydrates.
Are rice and beans good for dieting?
Rice and Beans can be a healthy option for maintaining a healthy lifestyle (i’m not the biggest fan of the term “dieting”). These basic ingredients have a combination of fiber, protein, and carbohydrates helps to keep you feeling full and provides essential nutrients to the body. Best of all, rice and beans are found at your local grocery store! For a punch of flavor spoon your favorite salsa over a can of pinto beans and leftover rice and you have a healthy meal for the entire family with little cook time. Add more protein with some cooked and seasoned ground chicken or some Southwest Marinated Grilled Chicken!
In regards to both of these frequently asked questions, it is always a good idea to consult 1:1 with a healthcare professional, like a registered dietitian. This is the best way to obtain personalized advice that is tailored to your specific nutritional needs and health goals.
More Simple Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed this recipe for dinner and/or leftovers, you will love the other recipes!
This Southwest Bowl with Marinated Chicken is nutritious and has zesty bold flavors. Enjoy the marinated chicken along side a healthy quinoa salad full of flavor and vegetables.
1 baking sheet or baking dish (if baking the chicken)
1 Tongs
1 Large Mixing Bowl
1 Small Mixing Bowl
1 rubber spatula
1 Whisk
Ingredients
Southwest Marinated Chicken (Grilled or Baked)
2lbsskinless boneless chicken breastssee note
1/3cupavocado oil
1/3cupapple cider vinegar
2tsplime zest1 lime
2tbsplime juice1 lime
2tspchili powder
2tsptomato powderor tomato paste
2tspgarlic powder
2tsp dried oregano
1tspcumin
1tspred pepper flakes
Southwest Quinoa Salad
3cupcooked quinoa
1½cupsblack beans, rinsedapprox. 1 can of beans
1cupcorn
1½cupsquartered cherry tomatoes
½cupchopped red onion
½cupchopped cilantro
1minced jalapenooptional
Southwest Vinaigrette
¼cupolive oil
¼cupapple cider vinegar
1tbsplime juice
1tsplime zest
1tspdried oregano
1tspchili powder
1tspcumin
1tspgarlic powder
¼tspkosher salt
⅛tspblack pepper
Instructions
Marinated Chicken
Mix all the marinade ingredients together in a casserole pan (with lid). Add chicken and massage the marinade into the chicken. If using a bag, seal it tightly, pressing out any excess air.
Place the marinating chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but preferably for several hours or overnight. The longer you marinate, the more the flavors will penetrate the chicken.Occasionally turn or massage the chicken in the marinade to ensure all sides are evenly coated. This helps enhance the flavor distribution.
When you're ready to cook the chicken, remove it from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the used marinade, as it may contain bacteria from the raw chicken.
If Grilling the Chicken (Directions)
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Close the grill lid and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side.
Avoid flipping the chicken frequently as it can cause it to dry out. Flip the chicken only once, halfway through the cooking time.
To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
If Baking the Chicken (Directions)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Make sure they are not crowded together.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the chicken to become tender.
Quinoa Salad
Add all the Southwest Quinoa Salad ingredients (quinoa, tomatoes, etc) in a bowl and set aside.
Now make your vinaigrette. Add all the Southwest Vinaigrette ingredients to a bowl and whisk until combined. Taste the vinaigrette and add seasonings per taste preference.
Toss the quinoa salad with the vinaigrette. Finish the meal by spooning the desired amount of salad into a bowl and top with chicken.
Option to top with optional toppings like diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or lime juice. Enjoy!
Notes
Chicken: I prefer to purchase air-chilled, organic pasture raised chicken. Remember to always follow proper food safety guidelines when handling and cooking chicken to avoid any risk of foodborne illnesses.Cook time is calculated for the baked chicken variation of this recipe.
10 Ways to Use Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles in Recipes
Thai Wheat Noodles from Trader Joe’s are fully cooked, ready-to-eat, and shelf-stable noodles perfect for quick and easy cooking!
Why You Need To Try Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles
They are excellent for when you don’t feel like making a mess in the kitchen but want to have something nourishing, healthy, and delicious.
Because these noodles are preserved at room temperature, they are excellent in anything from stir fries to soups to your favorite power bowl with crispy tofu!
Below are 10 easy ways to make Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles!
Noodle Stir Fries
Thai Peanut Noodle Stir Fry
Peanut Noodle stir-fries are an excellent way to enjoy these noodles. Pair them with your favorite store-bought peanut sauce and veggies!
Alternatively, make your delicious peanut sauce! It is super easy and you can make it with less than 5 ingredients!
I love to top my Thai Peanut Noodle stir fry with Baked Tofu or a chili crisp fried egg.
Pad Thai Inspired Recipe
A Thai takeout fave, Pad Thai! Make your variation of Pad Thai with these thicker wheat noodles. Traditionally, Pad Thai is made with rice noodles, stir-fried with eggs, tofu, fish sauce, garlic, sugar, lime, and crushed peanuts.
Make a Pad Thai-inspired dish right at home with veggies like bean sprouts, bell peppers, onions, and your favorite protein of choice. I like to make a quick pad Thai sauce with fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sriracha!
Make an egg free Pad Thai by using a silken tofu scramble to replace the scrambled eggs!
Thai Noodle Curries
Red or Green Curry
I love to make a Thai Curry full of vegetables and tofu. I’ll make the curry and often serve it with rice. You can easily swap out the rice and enjoy a delicious Red or Green Curry dish with Thai Wheat Noodles.
Massaman Curry
One of my favorite Thai curries is Massaman curry. It is spicy, salty, sour, and sweet! This creamy curry is made with coconut milk and infused with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and cumin.
Massaman curry is excellent as a warm and cozy meal. While traditionally served with chicken, I love adding tofu or even lentils. Opt for Thai wheat noodles instead of rice for a twist on this Thai Curry dish!
Thai Wheat Noodle Soups
Chicken Noodle Soup
Thai Wheat Noodles make for a fun variation of chicken noodle soup.
Just take your favorite chicken noodle soup recipe and exchange the noodles for Thai wheat noodles.
Coconut Curry Noodle Soup
Change things up and make the chicken noodle soup a Thai-inspired Coconut Curry Noodle soup.
To make this, add lots of thinly sliced onion, ginger, garlic, mushrooms, red or green curry paste, coconut milk, and freshly squeezed lime!
Other Ideas for Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles
Noodle Power Bowl
Make a delicious and healthy power bowl by layering the Thai wheat noodles with lots of chopped spinach or other leafy green, chopped veggies, and your favorite salad dressing.
Change up your spring rolls recipe by swapping the vermicelli noodles with Thai wheat noodles! Prepare them just like you would Vietnamese spring rolls, also referred to as salad rolls. You can use Nuoc Cham sauce as a dipping sauce or I love to use Peanut Sauce.
Maybe my favorite way to use these noodles is in lettuce cups! Cheesecake Factory makes amazing Thai Lettuce Wraps, but they use egg noodles. Recreate them at home and use Thai wheat noodles instead! You can have dipping sauces like hoisin, chili oil, or peanut sauce. Just cut iceberg lettuce in half and chop up your favorite add-ins like peanuts, bean sprouts, green onions, red pepper, shredded carrots, shredded chicken or baked tofu, and, of course, Thai wheat noodles.
Have a blast mixing and matching ingredients to make individualized Spring Rolls and Thai Lettuce Wraps.
Like These Recipes? Check Out More Recipe Round Ups!
I love to make Habanero Peach Salsa Recipes in the summertime when peaches are in season and the produce is abundant!
The spicy-sweet blend of ingredients is so delicious spooned over tacos or served alongside tortilla chips.
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Ingredients for Habanero Peach Salsa Recipe
Below are the ingredients for this fruity salsa!
Peach: For the ultimate peachy flavor, I believe nothing beats locally sourced, fresh peaches, if available in your area. You could also use canned peaches in this recipe!
Peaches canned locally or store-bought are bothfine, but I like using fresh!
Keep the skin on, the colors are so beautiful!
Tomato – I used tomatoes I grew in my backyard. If you see yellow tomatoes at the farmers market those would look beautiful in this dish.
Minced Habanero – For a spicier salsa, use more, for a milder salsa use less.
I recommend starting with a small amount of minced habaneros and adding more from there based on your flavor preferences for the right amount of heat.
A little goes a long way with habaneros bold spicy flavor.
Fresh Cilantro – If you dislike cilantro, I recommend fresh Italian parsley.
Fresh Lime Juice – In a pinch, lemon juice or white vinegar could also work.
Onion – I love to use white onion in this dish but red, sweet, or yellow onions work well too
Optional Ingredients for Habanero Peach Salsa Recipe
Lime Zest – You already got those limes, this adds more lime flavor!
Mint – I used orange mint in this recipe!
Red Bell Pepper – for bright red contrasting colors!
How to Make Habanero Peach Salsa Recipe (3 ways!)
There are several ways in which you can make peach salsa. Here are a few ways you can go about this salsa creation.
Choose to do it the way I did and, roughly dice and/or mince the ingredients and add them to a food processor. I pulsed about 10 times and was careful not to over-pulse.
Another method is dicing or mincing all by hand. Choose your desired size and keep each ingredient small and uniform. I prefer this method for chunky salsa.
The third option is to use a salsa-making gadget! I’ve seen these sold online at various stores. Some are crank food processors while others are hand chopping gizmos.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
There are many reasons you will love this recipe. Some of these include:
Lots of Veggies
I love that this recipe involves so many different vegetables. It is fresh, nutritious, and delish!
In Season Produce
Indulge in this recipe when peach season hits its peak, and the local farmers’ market bursts with juicy peaches!
Summertime is the time when habanero peppers and sweet peaches are in season. Pick up some other yummy fresh flavors from your market, such as red onion, herbs (fresh cilantro!), and red bell peppers. These farm-fresh ingredients make the perfect combination for a farm-fresh salsa.
Versatility
Adjust the ingredients or level of heat easily! You can use less habanero or omit the spicy flavors of habanero and include jalapenos for a milder version of this homemade salsa recipe.
Turn this into a mango salsa by swapping the peaches for mangos or make a Peach Mango Habanero Salsa by doing half mango half peach!
How To Use This Recipe in Cooking
This salsa recipe has so many applications in all sorts of dishes! Some of my favorite ways to use this homemade salsa include:
Chips and salsa – a classic. Get super fancy and make homemade tortilla chips or use my favorite – Juanita’s Tortilla Chips.
Spooned over fish tacos
Served with some breakfast burritos.
A topper for big summer salads
Mixed into a grain bowl
Tips for Cooking with Hot peppers for Your Habanero Peach Salsa Recipes
Below are a few tips for cooking with hot peppers.
Handle with Care: I highly recommend using disposable gloves when handling habanero peppers. The oils on peppers can irritate your skin and eyes. So also, avoid touching your eyes.
Controlling and Adjusting Heat: For adjusting the heat in salsa, remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat. Additionally, start small and taste as you go.
Balance: Hot peppers can overwhelm other flavors in a dish. Balance the heat by adding acidic and sweet flavors.
Pulse 5 times, then using a rubber spatula scrape down the sides, and pulse again 5 times.
Serve with chips, tacos, fajitas, over a salad, the possibilities are endless!
Notes
This recipe is vegan and vegetarian as well as gluten, dairy, egg, and nut free!Tomatoes, I recommend if you are using small tomatoes to add about 2 cups worth.
Health and Easy 5 Ingredient Peach Cobbler Protein Shake
This shake recipe is inspired by Peach crisps, cobblers, and crumbles. I love fruit crisps, cobblers, and crumble but sometimes I just want a healthier version, you know? Oh, and high protein to keep me fuller for longer!
I especially love this healthy peach cobbler smoothie when it is peach season! Fresh fruit smoothies are THE BEST with seasonal produce.
Moreover, this shake is gluten-free, healthy, and can be made 100% plant-based. Whether you call this a peach smoothie or a protein peach cobbler shake, it is delicious, full of healthy fats and protein, and a great way to ensure a balanced diet.
Why You Will Love Making This Peach Cobbler Protein Smoothie
This peachy-inspired shake is decadent yet comforting and easy! It is a delicious summer dessert and loaded with nutrition!
Best of all, this simple recipe is super easy.
Just throw all the ingredients into a blender and you have a delicious and nutritious protein smoothie in minutes.
Ingredients In This Peach Smoothie Recipe
Fruit: Peaches & Bananas. Peaches are the star ingredient of this shake. I find that frozen fruit works best. But, no need to purchase frozen fruit from the grocery store, just freeze your own fresh peaches when they are in season!
Liquid: I prefer Soy Milk but you can use almond milk, cow’s milk, or any other milk you prefer or have on hand. If using dairy and you are looking for a lower fat “healthier option” you can use skim milk.
Nut Butter: Cashew Butter. It’s a 50/50 shot on whether I’ll use cashew or almond butter in a smoothie. It all depends on the flavors I am going for. For my Peach Cobbler Shake, I chose cashew butter because it’s nutty, buttery, and rich with creaminess. It’s no wonder vegan bakers use cashews in so many desserts!
Sweetener: Dates. The only “added sugar” in this smoothie comes in the form of Medjool Dates. A wonderful concentrated sugary fruit, I love using Medjool Dates in many smoothie creations.
Interested in learning more about dates? Check out my Strawberry Banana Smoothie Recipe recipe. In my Sharper Nutrition Fix, I discuss the nutritional benefits of dates!
Optional additional flavors: Vanilla Extract, a pinch of cinnamon, or more sweetener of choice such as dates or brown sugar.
Protein Supplement: I choose a whey protein powder for taste. Option to use a vegan protein powder.
For this recipe, I recommend vanilla protein unflavored protein powders. I often use creamy vanilla protein powder for extra flavor and its a healthy way to bump up the protein in your diet. This is especially delicious and hydrating as a post-workout shake.
My Favorite Protein Supplements
I have no affiliation with these protein supplement companies. I just love the taste and they are more tightly regulated compared to some other supplements on the market!
In a high speed blender, combine smoothie ingredients including the soy milk, vanilla protein powder, frozen peaches, nut butter, dates, and any other flavorings you choose like cinnamon or vanilla extract.
Blend the ingredients until the peach is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
Adjust taste and consistency
If the shake is too thick, you can add more soy milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Want a colder shake? You can also add a few ice cubes and blend again until smooth.
For a sweeter shake, add more dates, date sugar, or other sweetener of choice.
Garnish This Protein Shake
Optionally, garnish with sliced peaches, shortbread cookies, graham cracker crumbles, a pinch of cinnamon, a sprinkle of cacao nibs, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Protein Shake Notes
Feel free to customize this recipe by adjusting the sweetness level with additional sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, if desired.
You can also experiment with different spices such as ginger or cardamom for added flavor complexity.
FAQs (Ask a Dietitian!)
What can I put in my smoothie for protein?
Many ingredients work well to boost the protein content in your smoothie. Some of my favorites include protein powder, Greek yogurt, silken tofu, cottage cheese, nut butter, seeds, and milk or plant-based milk.
Do peaches (or any other frozen fruits) lose nutrients when frozen?
Not really, no. Actually, some research shows that frozen fruits and vegetables might have more nutrients when compared to fresh ones.
Benefits of freezing fruits like peaches include minimal nutrient loss, retention of antioxidants, preservation of fiber, convenience, and versatility, and they make for super thick and creamy smoothies!
Are nectarines peaches?
Yes, nectarines are essentially a type of peach, both belonging to the same species, Prunus persica.
Among the three types of peaches, Freestone, Clingstone, and semi-clingstone, there are thousands of different varietals. From Harko to Harbelle to Canadian Harmony Peaches, each peach has its own delicious texture, flavor, and appearance.
Nectarines are sweet, with juicy flesh, and lack the fuzz on the fruit surface.
optional: 1/2 tsp vanilla protein powder, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, additional sweetener of choice
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients listed above.
Blend
In a blender, combine the soy milk, vanilla protein powder, frozen peaches, nut butter, dates, and any other flavorings you choose like cinnamon or vanilla extract.
Blend the ingredients until the peach is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
Adjust taste and consistency
If the shake is too thick, you can add more soy milk to achieve your desired consistency.
For a colder shake, you can also add a few ice cubes and blend again until smooth.
For a sweeter shake, add more dates, date sugar, or another sweetener of choice.
Garnish
Optionally, garnish with sliced peaches, shortbread cookies, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
Additional protein add-ins include Greek yogurt, silken tofu, cottage cheese, or seeds!You can also experiment with different spices such as ginger or cardamom for added flavor complexity.
