A Zesty, High-Protein Shake Packed with Bright Berry Flavor
Craving a shake that’s light, tangy, and energizing? This raspberry lemon protein shake blends tart raspberries, vanilla protein, and zesty lemon for a refreshing twist on post-workout recovery or a quick morning fuel-up. With the Ninja BN401’s Pro Extractor blades and personal cup design, you’ll get a silky, seed-free texture every time.
Before you buy your next blender, explore our real performance blender reviews with testing insights for buyers.
Table of Contents
Best Times to Drink This Lemon Blend
- Pre-Workout Energizer – The natural sugars from raspberries and lemon’s tang provide quick energy, while protein offers staying power to power through late-morning and afternoon workouts.
- Mid-Morning Refresh – Skip the coffee; this zesty smoothie keeps cortisol levels balanced while awakening your senses in a healthier way.
- Lunchtime Lightener – If you’re feeling sluggish after a heavy meal, this shake offers a vitamin-rich lift without taxing your digestive system.
- Calming Bedside Blend – A glass before winding down may support gentle digestion with raspberries’ fiber and lemon’s calming citric compounds.
Health Perks of Raspberries + Lemon
- Rich in Antioxidants – Raspberries offer high levels of vitamin C and anthocyanins to help neutralize stressors and support immune health.
- Digestive Support – Lemon’s acidity can stimulate digestion and support gentle detox action.
- Natural Hydration and Electrolytes – Both lemon juice and raspberries provide fluids and electrolytes for replenishment, especially helpful after exercise.
- Lean Nutrition – At around only 190 calories packed with protein and fiber, this shake delivers serious satiety—perfect for intermittent fasting or calorie-aware diets.
Ingredients (Serves 1)
- ¾ cup frozen raspberries
- 1 scoop vanilla whey or plant protein
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh)
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- 1–2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1–2 ice cubes for a thicker texture
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to the 24‑oz personal cup in the order listed.
- Attach the blade lid and lock it into the blender base.
- Press “Smoothie” or “Extract” mode on the BN401.
- Blend until fully smooth and vibrant in color.
- Pour into a tall glass or drink straight from the cup.
For more ideas, browse our Ninja blender recipe library highlighting fruit-forward smoothies, high-protein shakes, and energizing bowls.
Make It Your Own
- No protein powder? Add ½ cup Greek yogurt for a creamy protein boost.
- Need more calories? Blend in ½ frozen banana or 1 tablespoon almond butter.
- Prefer tart? Skip the sweetener and let the lemon-raspberry combo shine.
- Going vegan? Use plant-based protein and maple syrup or agave.
Nutritional Highlights (Approx.)
- 190 calories
- 20–25g protein (depending on powder)
- 3g fiber
- High in antioxidants and vitamin C
- Naturally gluten-free
This shake is lean, refreshing, and perfect for muscle recovery or a mid-day pick-me-up.
FAQs
Will raspberry seeds ruin the texture?
Not at all. The BN401’s high-speed blade system crushes seeds smoothly when using the personal cup.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just blend it in the larger 64‑oz pitcher and pour into multiple servings.
Is this good after a workout?
Yes. It’s light, refreshing, and rich in antioxidants and protein—perfect for recovery.
Why the BN401 Excels at Protein Shakes
The Ninja BN401 is built for single-serve efficiency. Its personal blending cups, paired with Auto-iQ Smoothie/Extract modes, ensure shakes are smooth, lump-free, and balanced. Even tough ingredients like raspberry seeds or citrus zest blend seamlessly.
For model-specific details, check out our Ninja BN401 blender review with performance testing results.
Should You Choose the BN401 Over Other Blenders?
While the BN401 excels at portability and personal-sized blends, it’s worth comparing it against other models like the Ninja Mega or Vitamix Explorian if you plan to make larger batches or more diverse recipes. Some blenders handle soups, nut butters, or frozen desserts better, depending on power and accessories.
Want to see how the BN401 stacks up? Browse our blender comparison hub with real-world testing matchups.
More Ninja Recipes to Try
Love this zesty shake? Don’t miss our Ninja Blast Max cherry protein shake recipe for a rich, portable dessert-style blend.
Together, these recipes show off just how versatile Ninja blenders can be, whether you’re craving tangy citrus or creamy cherry-chocolate blends.
