Recently the great people at Vega contacted me and offered to send me samples of their Energizing Smoothie powder. Of course I said yes for two reasons: 1) I love trying new products, of course, and 2) I’m currently on a mission to find my favorite protein powder/smoothie mix so this was a perfect opportunity! I’ve tried a few brands lately but this one might just be my top so far! Here’s why…
First of all, Vega’s products are all natural and made with plant-based ingredients. No crazy chemicals or added sugar. Since my goal is to be healthier person and eat cleaner foods, I LOVE that! Here’s some other awesome stats about this brand:
1. Made from whole foods and the least process form possible
2. Provides a balance of protein (from vegetarian sources), carbs (low glycemic index), fiber, and Omega-3s
3. No dairy, gluten or soy
4. No artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners
Vega Energizing Smoothie sample rainbow.
The flavors Vega sent me were: Tropical Tango, Choc-a-lot, Oh Natural, Vanilla Almond, and Bodacious Berry. All of them were really tasty but my favorites were the chocolate and natural (its very versatile). Amazingly, each of these packets contains 90 to 105 calories plus:
- Two servings of veggies
- 10 g of complete, plant-based protein
- 5 g of fiber
- 1 g of Omega-3
For the tropical flavor, I mixed it with orange juice and it turned out really tasty. I think with orange juice or water works for this flavor but if there is something else you have tried, let me know! I wasn’t totally sure what else to use. I mixed the berry flavor with water and enjoyed it, although I usually prefer a chocolate or vanilla flavor for my protein mixes. But even though it was a fruity flavor, this one I liked!
My absolute favorite flavor was the choc-a-lot mixed with skim milk. It was SO good. I’m always a sucker for chocolate (thanks mom for the sweet tooth!) so this was my clear winner. I’ll be ordering more of this for sure!
Super yum!
I mixed the vanilla almond flavor in a green smoothie with kale, honey, Greek yogurt, and some skim milk. It gave the smoothie a nice flavor and I loved the hint of almond. Really yummy! With the Oh Natural flavor I made a really nice smoothie that I wrote the recipe for in this post (see below). In addition to the chocolate, this was one of my favorite combinations!
TIPS: This powder definitely mixes better in a blender or VitaMix if you are lucky enough to have one (I am jealous of you if you do!). If you do mix it by hand, some of the powder may settle at the bottom and leave a chalky flavor. I recommend shaking it in a water bottle or a blender for the best consistency and taste. Its super yummy when its fully mixed!
Overall verdict: Try this!
Disclosure: Vega provided me with the products to sample, but all the opinions expressed are my own.
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So now that I’ve told you all about Vega Smoothies, here’s a recipe for one of the smoothies I made. This was my favorite combo and it was super tasty.
Banana, Almond, and Chia Smoothie Recipe
3 heaping tbsp of plain Greek yogurt
1/4 cup almond milk
1 banana, sliced
1/2-1 tbsp chia seeds
1 tbsp almond butter (I used TJs almond butter w/ flax)
1 serving “Oh Natural” Vega protein powder
Honey for sweetness
My smoothie!
Oh Natural Vega Energizing Smoothie
Directions:
1. Mix yogurt, milk, and almond butter in food processor.
2. Add banana, protein powder, chia seeds, and honey.
3. Mix in a few ice cubes (chop in blender) to make cooler.
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What is your favorite protein powder?
Have you tried Vega? Do you like it?
Haven’t heard of or tried Vega but I’ll have to look into it! I have tasted a few protein powders and thought they’ve all been so blah. Especially, Sun Warrior disliked that one a lot. So I’m still searching for a favorite powder as well!
I want a vitamix too!
I have been interested in trying the Vega products because I always hear great things about them. The only reason that I haven’t is the price and my food budget. How did you get a free sample? Count me in for that!
They actually contacted me so I’m not sure but I think theres a way on the website to get a free sample! I’ve heard other people have done it!
Maybe a fruity flavor will be good for the summer time – I am usually a vanilla girl myself for protein powders!
I still use Designer Whey because it works for me and I can never taste it. I have been looking to experiment with more fruity favors though. I love chia seeds – but don’t have them before a long run – trust me
Haha thanks for the tip! I’ll stick to my Clif bar and save the chia for post race.
I’m just waiting for my samples
I really hope I like it cause it would be a great way to get some extra servings of veggies in along with the protein!
ohh these sound awesome!
I signed up for a sample pack from Vega so I hope i get it soon!
Awesome!! I love trying protein powders, they are all so different!
I’ve just tried the Vega Sport protein powder which I didn’t really like but I do want to try this! I signed up for a sample a little while ago, but it hasn’t arrived yet. Hopefully it does!
I always go for a vanilla, a ‘vanilla ice cream’ flavor always grabs my attention. I find vanilla mixes the best with other flavors.
I’ve never tried vega protein before, but it sounds interesting and different flavors.
You are like the 10th person to tell me about Vega shakes. Should I consider this time to get my butt in gear and actually make pick it up
Its a sign you are supposed to try it already haha. They probably would be willing to send you a sample if you contact them on twitter.. Worth a shot!
I just found your blog, and am so glad I did: I’m a new Vega convert, too, though I haven’t tried the smoothie mixes yet. I love the Endurance bars and gels, though: They are totally powering me through marathon training this summer!
Can’t wait to follow more of your blog. Keep smiling and running, lady!
Yay!! So glad you found me, I love meeting new readers/bloggers
I never tried their bars and gels, thats something I might have to check out! I didn’t realize at first how many products they make, its awesome.
Good luck in your marathon training! I’m heading to your blog now to check it out. Thanks girl!
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