Strawberry Matcha Fusion

Strawberry Matcha Fusion (ID: 26)

Description
An energizing yet balanced smoothie that combines the antioxidant power of strawberries with ceremonial-grade Japanese matcha green tea, creating a delicious blend that provides sustained energy, mental clarity, and nutritional benefits without the crash of conventional caffeinated beverages.

Yield
16 oz (473 ml) - One serving

Preparation Time
5 minutes

Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
- 1 teaspoon ceremonial-grade matcha powder (culinary grade works too)
- 1 medium ripe banana
- 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon raw honey (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Small pinch of sea salt
- 4-5 ice cubes (omit if using frozen strawberries)

Equipment
- Blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small sieve or matcha strainer (optional)
- Bamboo matcha whisk (optional, for traditional preparation)
- Glass for serving

Instructions
1. Optional traditional step: Sift matcha powder through a fine mesh strainer into a small bowl to remove any clumps.
2. Add almond milk to the blender first.
3. If using the traditional method: Add 2 tablespoons of the almond milk to the matcha powder and whisk with bamboo whisk until frothy, then add to blender.
4. Alternatively, add matcha powder directly to the blender with all the almond milk.
5. Add strawberries, banana, Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
6. Add ice cubes if using fresh strawberries.
7. Blend on low speed initially for 15 seconds to incorporate the matcha without creating air bubbles.
8. Increase to medium speed for 30 seconds, then high speed for 30-45 seconds until smooth and creamy.
9. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired, as matcha can have a naturally bitter edge.

Nutritional Information (approximate)
- Calories: 270
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 8g
- Fat: 4g
- Antioxidants: Very high (includes catechins from matcha)
- Caffeine: 30-35mg (about 1/3 of a cup of coffee)

Benefits
- Contains L-theanine from matcha that works synergistically with caffeine for calm, focused energy without jitters
- Rich in catechins (particularly EGCG) that support metabolism and cellular health
- Provides vitamin C from strawberries for immune support
- Delivers a balanced energy boost that sustains for 3-5 hours without a crash
- Offers chlorophyll from matcha for gentle detoxification

Variations
- For extra protein: Add 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- For vegan option: Use coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt
- For enhanced metabolism: Add 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- For cognitive boost: Add 1 teaspoon MCT oil

Serving Suggestion
Serve in a tall glass garnished with a fresh strawberry and a small sprinkle of matcha powder on top for visual appeal. This energizing smoothie is ideal as a mid-morning or early afternoon pick-me-up, or before activities requiring sustained mental focus. Not recommended for evening consumption due to the caffeine content unless you have high caffeine tolerance. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 12 hours, though the vibrant green color may fade slightly with time.

Berry-Based Smoothies