Spirulina is a form of blue-green algae known for its vibrant colour and impressive nutrient profile. It’s an increasingly popular wellness supplement and, for a good reason, earning its superfood status by bursting with protein, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Beyond its health benefits, this variety of algae is kind to the environment. It’s easily cultivated without chemicals and has minimal impact on the planet.
Even though it may sound too good to be true, there is a potential downside – the taste of spirulina isn’t for everyone. Only the brave might simply dissolve it into a glass of water and drink because spirulina tastes slightly earthy or even fishy in flavour. Also, swallowing the powder straight is a bad option as it’s very dry and can get stuck in your throat. At the same time, this doesn’t mean that you should disregard the superfood of the sea. We’ve put together fourteen delicious and easy ways you can add this sustainable protein into your diet.
Drink Spirulina
Juices
The easiest way to take spirulina is to stir half a teaspoon into fruit juice. The sweet taste of fruit will help mask the taste of the spirulina and add an antioxidant boost. You can simply use store-bought juice or make your own.
Smoothies
Blending spirulina into your smoothie is another great way to add a nutritional boost to your morning. Just combine your favourite fruits with either milk, yoghurt, coconut water or juice and blend with a ½ – 1 teaspoon of spirulina.
Vegan Protein Shake
Spirulina is also a rich source of plant-based protein. It’s known as a ‘complete protein’ because it contains all the essential amino acids as well as high levels of B vitamins and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Simply add spirulina to your vegan protein shake and blend when you’re in need of a quick energy boost.
Blue Latte
Blend your half a teaspoon of spirulina into a glass of warmed plant or dairy milk of your choice. Make 1-2 shots of coffee and add your blue milk, plus sweetener if you like!
Cocktails & Mocktails
Why not ‘wow’ your friends by shaking some spirulina into your next cocktail or mocktail. It will turn your drink into an impressive blue flavour, great for themed parties and adding a healthy boost to your drink.
Pre-mixed Sodas
There are some amazing pre-mixed carbonated spirulina drinks on the market. These antioxidant-rich drinks make great healthy soda alternatives.
Did you know: Spirulina drinks make great hangover remedies. Not only is spirulina rich in vital vitamins and minerals, but it can also help your liver process alcohol, thanks to the anti-inflammatory effects.
Drink Spirulina
Hummus
Why not give hummus a savoury, seaweed twist by stirring in some spirulina. If you’re making your own hummus, you can blend it in with the other ingredients too. This will turn your hummus into a wonderful blue-green colour, great for parties or just jazzing up your afternoon snack.
Ice Cream
Swirl some spirulina powder into your favourite flavoured ice cream. The sweetness will hide the spirulina taste, so you’ll unknowingly be getting an amazing nutrient boost at the same time as enjoying your dessert.
Swirl Into Soup
Spirulina can be stirred into or sprinkled on top of your soup to add an extra kick of nutrition. It’s important to note that heating spirulina can reduce its nutritional value by destroying some of the essential amino acids and enzymes, so make sure your soup has cooled slightly before adding your spirulina.
Garnish Pasta Dishes
Forget ground pepper, give your pasta a blue twist by sprinkling a little over the top of your finished dish before serving. This also works well with pizza.
Popcorn flavouring
Give popcorn a savoury twist by dusting it with sea salt and spirulina.
Energy balls
Energy balls are great healthy snacks that can easily be made by blending spirulina, dates, raisins, nuts like cashews and almonds, plus some agave, honey or maple syrup. Blend all the ingredients into a food processor and pulse into a sticky mixture. Once blended, roll into balls and scatter with desiccated coconut if you like!
Avocado toast
For the ultimate weekend brunch, make avo toast even more nutritious by mashing in some spirulina.
Salad dressing
Make a tasty, zesty salad dressing by simply shaking equal parts lemon juice and olive oil plus a sprinkling of spirulina. Season to taste with salt and pepper and dress your salad with a vibrant, punchy dressing.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re adding spirulina to your morning protein smoothie or sprinkling it over your evening meal to boost your immune system, spirulina has benefits for all times of the day. The minimum recommended amount is three grams daily – but avoid taking this much close to bedtime as the high protein content might make you more alert.
We hope these recipe ideas have given you some inspo for your next meal. In a nutshell, spirulina offers a sustainable way to give your drinks and meals a nutritious boost while turning them mermaid blue when you’re feeling a little extra!
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