Tahini Smoothie
6
Last updated on Mar 31, 2025
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This tahini smoothie is loaded with healthy ingredients and packed with over 20 grams of protein. It’s rich, creamy, delicious and makes for the perfect quick breakfast or post-workout snack.
It’s starting to feel like summer here in Richmond, which has me craving all of the smoothies!
I love all smoothies, but protein smoothies are my go-to, especially when I’m short on time for breakfast and want something easy that will keep me full all morning long. Cue this tahini smoothie, which has been my latest smoothie obsession.
Why You Gotta Try This One
If you’ve never added tahini to a smoothie, you’re in for a surprise—in the best way. It adds a nutty depth that makes this smoothie feel a little more grown-up than your usual banana blend. It’s packed with over 20 grams of protein, keeps you full for hours, and tastes like a creamy, nutty milkshake with a hint of sesame. Whether you’re tired of the same old peanut butter combo or just want to mix up your smoothie game, this one hits different.
Ingredients Needed
- almond or oat milk – choose your preferred milk option to create a creamy base for the smoothie. Unsweetened varieties are perfect for keeping the sugar content low.
- frozen banana – half of a frozen banana adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture to the smoothie. Follow this easy tutorial on how to freeze bananas.
- riced cauliflower – this clever addition sneaks in some veggies and nutrients while providing a thicker, creamier texture without changing the flavor or adding sweetness.
- tahini – the star of the show! Tahini adds a rich, nutty flavor that sets this smoothie apart. Opt for a high-quality brand with a smooth consistency and only 1 or 2 ingredients (sesame seeds and salt). You can also make homemade tahini!
- medjool date – one medjool date adds some more natural sweetness and a hint of caramel-like flavor to the mix.
- cinnamon – just a touch of cinnamon enhances the flavors of the smoothie, complementing the tahini and banana perfectly.
- vanilla protein powder – adds protein and a nice vanilla to this smoothie. my favorite protein powder is Nuzest. Use code eatingbirdfood for 15% off your order!
Variations to Try
- Go green: Blend in a handful of spinach or kale for extra nutrients. The flavor stays mellow, but the health benefits get a nice boost.
- Chocolate tahini: Turn it into a chocolate version by using chocolate protein powder or adding a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Extra creamy & filling: For even more protein and a thicker texture, blend in a scoop of Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. It turns this smoothie into a super satisfying meal.
How to Make
It doesn’t get much easier than this!
Place all the ingredients into a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.
Pour smoothie into a glass and top with a drizzle of tahini and a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Tahini Smoothie
- Use a soft Medjool date, so it blends easily. If your date is firm or dry, soak it in warm water for 5–10 minutes to soften before blending.
- Blend tahini last: If your blender struggles with thick ingredients, add the tahini after the liquid and banana. This helps it incorporate more smoothly without sticking to the sides.
- Chill your glass: Want an extra-refreshing smoothie? Pop your glass in the freezer for a few minutes while you blend. It keeps the smoothie cold and creamy longer.
How to Store This Smoothie For Later
If you have leftover smoothie or want to make a bigger batch to store some for later, here are some tips for storing a smoothie:
- Store the smoothie in a glass container with an airtight lid (I use mason jars, but a thermos would probably work well too). Seal the container and place in the fridge as soon as possible.
- Try to fill the container to the top to avoid extra air which will cause the smoothie to oxidize.
- Take the smoothie out of the fridge when you’re ready to drink it. Give it a good shake or stir and enjoy.
- Plan to drink the smoothie within 24 hours — it probably won’t keep much longer than that.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider leaving a ⭐ star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below.
Tahini Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond milk or oat milk
- ½ frozen banana
- ¼ cup frozen riced cauliflower
- 2 Tablespoons tahini
- 1 medjool date
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder, 25 grams
- Optional toppings: dash of cinnamon and drizzle of tahini
Instructions
- Place all ingredients into a high speed blender. Blend until smooth.
- Pour smoothie into a glass and top with a drizzle of tahini and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Enjoy!
Notes
- Tahini matters: Use a runny, well-stirred tahini for the best texture. Some brands can be thicker or more bitter than others.
- Protein options: I used vanilla protein powder to complement the nutty flavor, but chocolate protein can work too for a dessert-like vibe.
- Leftover smoothie? Store it in an airtight container in the fridge (I like using mason jars). Fill to the top to reduce air, shake before drinking, and enjoy within 24 hours.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Equipment
Tahini 101
Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds. It’s a staple ingredient in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine and is used in many dishes, from savory to sweet. Tahini is rich in healthy fats, fiber, protein and a variety of vitamins and minerals, making it a fantastic addition to smoothies. It provides a unique, nutty flavor and creamy texture that enhances any drink or dish.
You can find tahini near other nut butter varities in your local grocery store. I have tried a few different tahini brands over the years and my personal favorites are the Whole Foods tahini, Soom organic tahini and Once Again tahini. They’re all creamy and are only made with 1 or 2 ingredients (sesame seeds and salt).
More Smoothie Recipes to Try
- Green Protein Smoothie
- Kiwi Smoothie
- Strawberry Banana Smoothie
- Butterfinger Smoothie
- Strawberry Banana Protein Smoothie
More Tahini Recipes
- Tahini Banana Bread
- Tahini Chocolate Chip Protein Balls
- Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies
- Tahini Fig Bars
- Blueberry Tahini Dressing
Be sure to check out all of the tahini recipes as well as the full collection of smoothie recipes on EBF!
I made this with almond milk, and added 6 whole raw almonds. It was great! Smooth, creamy and, as promised, not a hint of tasting the riced cauliflower.
Also, it is very filling so satisfying for a quick breakfast or post-workout.
Amazing! I am so glad you gave this smoothie a try and it turned out great for you, Jacqueline. Thank you for sharing your review + star rating, I really appreciate it!
This was the most delicious protein shake I have ever tried!! Love it so much 💖
WOO! I am so glad you are loving this smoothie, Jami. Thank you for your review & star rating, it means so much to me!
too high in fat for post workout smoothie… maybe a meal replacement shake.
Hi Shannon – There is lots of healthy fats in this recipe. It will also vary depending the protein powder you use. Hope you give this recipe a try.