A small, microscopic blue-green algae, spirulina has surged in popularity due to its impressive nutritional profile. It boasts high levels of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a favored choice among health enthusiasts and the vegan community.
Spirulina has a slightly savory, sea-like flavor, making it easy to incorporate into a variety of dishes. In powder form, it can be effortlessly added to smoothies, salads, and even baked goods for a nutrient boost. Let’s dive into 10 meal prep ideas with spirulina as the star protein source, substituting for the commonly used beef.
1. Spirulina Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with this vibrant, nutrient-dense bowl of goodness.
- Serving Size: 300g
- Estimated Macros: 250 calories, 15g protein, 45g carbs, 5g fat
- Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking instructions: Blend together frozen bananas, a generous spoonful of spirulina powder, a splash of almond milk, and a handful of spinach until smooth. Pour this into a bowl and top with fresh berries, chia seeds, and a drizzle of honey. Enjoy this bright bowl for a refreshing start to your day.
- Best time to eat: Breakfast
- Storage instructions: Best enjoyed immediately after preparation.
2. Vegan Spirulina Pesto Pasta
This pasta dish is a delicious twist on the classic, with a punch of protein from spirulina.
- Serving Size: 350g
- Estimated Macros: 430 calories, 18g protein, 60g carbs, 15g fat
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking instructions: To make the pesto, blend together fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, nutritional yeast, spirulina powder, and olive oil. Cook your preferred pasta as per packet instructions, and stir through the spirulina pesto. Enjoy this flavorful dish sprinkled with extra nutritional yeast and a side of cherry tomatoes.
- Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
3. Spirulina Infused Quinoa Salad
This fresh salad is a perfect mix of crunch, flavor, and nutrition.
- Serving Size: 250g
- Estimated Macros: 350 calories, 15g protein, 45g carbs, 12g fat
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking instructions: Cook quinoa as per packet instructions, adding a teaspoon of spirulina powder towards the end. In a large bowl, combine the cooled spirulina-infused quinoa with chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Dress the salad with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Best served chilled.
4. Spirulina Energy Balls
These energy balls are perfect for a quick snack or a post-workout fuel-up.
- Serving Size: 3 balls
- Estimated Macros: 250 calories, 8g protein, 35g carbs, 10g fat
- Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cooking instructions: In a food processor, combine dates, oats, almonds, a scoop of spirulina powder, and a drizzle of honey. Pulse until the mixture comes together. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and chill in the fridge for an hour before enjoying.
- Best time to eat: Snack time
- Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
5. Spirulina Avocado Toast
Avocado toast gets a superfood upgrade in this easy recipe.
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Estimated Macros: 330 calories, 12g protein, 35g carbs, 18g fat
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking instructions: Mash a ripe avocado with a touch of lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of spirulina powder. Spread this vibrant green mixture over whole-grain toast. Top with radish slices and sesame seeds for extra crunch.
- Best time to eat: Breakfast or lunch
- Storage instructions: Best enjoyed immediately after preparation.
More to come in the next post. Experiment with these delicious recipes and don’t forget to share your experiences and tweaks in the comments below. Happy cooking and enjoy your exploration into the world of spirulina!
