Berry Hibiscus Protein Refresher

Description

This Berry Hibiscus Protein Refresher is a vibrant, refreshing drink that’s packed with protein, antioxidants, and fruity flavor. Brewed hibiscus tea forms the base, giving the drink its beautiful ruby-red color and tart floral taste. Fresh strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and citrus slices add natural sweetness and brightness, while a scoop of clear whey protein provides a boost of protein without making the drink creamy. It’s perfect after workouts, on hot summer days, or anytime you want a delicious, hydrating beverage that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Tea

• 4 cups water
• 4 hibiscus tea bags (or 4 tbsp dried hibiscus flowers)

Fruit

• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup blackberries
• ½ cup blueberries
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 lime, thinly sliced

Protein & Flavor

• 2 scoops unflavored or berry-flavored clear whey protein isolate
• 2 tbsp collagen peptides (optional)
• 1–2 tbsp honey or sugar-free sweetener, to taste
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
• Juice of ½ lemon

For Serving

• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves
• Extra berries and citrus slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
2. Remove from the heat and steep the hibiscus tea bags for 10–15 minutes.
3. Remove the tea bags and allow the tea to cool completely.
4. Stir in the honey or your preferred sweetener until dissolved.
5. Add the lemon juice and apple cider vinegar if using.
6. In a separate shaker bottle, mix the clear whey protein with 1 cup of cold water until completely dissolved.
7. Once the hibiscus tea has cooled, stir in the protein mixture.
8. Add the collagen peptides and whisk until fully dissolved.
9. Fill a large pitcher with ice cubes.
10. Add the sliced strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, lemon slices, and lime slices.
11. Pour the protein hibiscus tea over the fruit.
12. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to allow the fruit flavors to infuse.
13. Stir gently before serving.
14. Pour into glasses filled with fresh ice and garnish with mint leaves and extra berries.

Tips & Notes

• Use clear whey isolate rather than regular whey for a transparent, juice-like drink.
• Chill the tea completely before adding protein to prevent clumping.
• Fresh fruit gives the best flavor, but frozen berries work well too.
• Adjust sweetness according to your taste.
• Add sparkling water just before serving for a fizzy refresher.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving as ingredients may naturally settle.

Servings

6 servings

Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 145
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 90mg