A sweet and fruity shake awaits! This post shares how to make my Strawberry Protein Shake. You’ll learn how it gets such a creamy texture, as well as some helpful tips about protein smoothies at large.
Hello friends, how are you? Me? Well, I’ve been in the lab doing research. Which, in ASPC terms, means experimenting, tweaking and perfecting recipes (and making quite the splash in the kitchen ). Oh, and taste testing each creation of course!
While I do have many protein shake recipes, this has got to be one of my favorites! It’s strawberry, it’s simple, and it is gosh darn refreshing. Nowadays, Dustin and I have this strawberry protein shake for breakfast every morning. We like what we like! And I get the feeling that you’ll like it too…so keep reading to learn about the benefits of protein smoothies, and how to make this strawberry protein shake!
Are Protein Smoothies Good For You?
Generally, protein smoothies (also known as protein shakes) are good for you. They’re a quick and efficient way to get a huge dose of protein before or after working out. Combining muscle-supporting protein plus other ingredients (like fruits and veggies high in fiber) makes it a super choice. Protein shakes also decrease your hunger pangs and appetite. For all of these reason, protein shakes are popular with those trying to gain strength and/or lose weight.
Do Protein Shakes Make You Gain Weight?
While protein shakes could potentially make you gain weight if you overdo it, they actually help people lose weight most of the time. To avoid gaining weight from protein shakes, make sure you get enough exercise daily while not exceeding your daily calorie intake. This is covered in my blog post 12 Worst Weight Loss Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them!).
What Happens To Your Body When You Drink Protein Shakes?
When you drink protein shakes, here’s what you can expect to happen…
- Your body absorbs sugar at a slower rate: When you drink a regular shake that’s mixed with fruit, sure you’ll get that nutrient boost, but your blood sugar also rises. Adding protein powder slows down the absorption of the sugar AND prevents a blood sugar spike. If you also drink coffee in the AM, this will help you stay attached to the earth!
- You’ll feel satiated for longer periods: Protein shakes are literally called meals on the go! They’re packed with all the nutrients you need, especially if you add fruits or veggies. Protein shakes also tame our hunger hormone!
- Prevents post-workout related muscle damage: Studies show that protein smoothies actually enhance whole-body protein balance and recovery after an intense workout.
What’s In This Strawberry Protein Shake?
Now onto the most important part of this guide, the recipe! This strawberry protein shake contains…
1. Unsweetened Almond Milk
If you want to reduce the amount of sugar you consume in your drink, I recommend that you use unsweetened almond milk. Not only is it naturally low in calories but it’s also rich in good fats. It’s an excellent source of vitamin E which is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects your body from free radical damage.
2. Greek Yogurt
I love me some creamy smoothies and to honest, strawberries don’t exactly give you the same texture as bananas. But don’t you worry, of course I found a workaround! Greek yogurt is creamy, high in protein and will keep you full. Triple threat. Discover more surprising benefits of Greek Yogurt in this post.
3. Vanilla Protein Powder
Some people actually use strawberry protein powder for their shakes but I personally like to add the actual fruit. So to give my shakes that vanilla taste I opt for vanilla protein powder instead which can also boost the flavor of your shake.
4. Honey
I swear honey is such an underrated superfood. It is loaded with essential nutrients such as calcium, copper, iron and magnesium which does wonders to your protein packed drink. Gives your shakes a kiss of sweetness, too.
5. Strawberries
Last but not the least, the star of the shake…strawberries! They’re already in season, rich with extra vitamins. Strawberries are also good for the digestive system due to the fiber. Trying to eat more fiber? Discover The Top 21 Foods High In Fiber!
More Healthy Protein Shake Recipes
Oh — if you don’t already have protein powder, one very important thing to consider when picking a flavor and a brand is the TASTE. Not all protein powders are created equal. Dustin and I describe some as too “proteiny,” meaning they taste artificial, like chemicals and, well, bad. But THIS protein brand is excellent!
- Green Protein Smoothie
- Almond Butter, Coffee, And Chocolate Shake
- Orange Protein Shake
- Chocolate, Banana & Peanut Butter Shake
- Banana Protein Shake
- Blueberry Shake
- Peach Protein Shake
This post contains affiliate links for products I use regularly and highly recommend.
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice
- ½ cup full fat Greek yogurt
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp raw honey
- 1 cup frozen strawberries or mixed berries, if you prefer
- 3-6 ice cubes I use 5, depending on how thick you like your shakes
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Starting with the almond milk, place all the ingredients into a blender. Depending on your blender’s settings, first start by chopping up the ice and frozen strawberries, followed by pureeing the mixture to create a smooth, even consistency.
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In order to get your preferred consistency, you can also start by not adding any ice, following the other steps above. Once all other ingredients are mixed together, slowly add the ice, mix and then test. Continue to add more ice cubes until the desired consistency is met.
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If too thick, you can add some more almond milk, little by little. If not sweet enough, add a little more honey.
Can I use something in place of the yogurt? That seems to be all I can taste.
Hi Jennifer! Thanks for your question. Do you like avocado? Half of a ripe avocado could be a good replacement. The color won’t be as nice…but it’s a great way to get some healthy fats! Half a banana could work as well. You could also just leave it out all together and use a little more almond milk. Throw in a tablespoon of chia seeds for protein.
bomb.com is all I have to say. I used fat free vanilla Greek yogurt vs plan greek yogurt and wow just wow! I had one for dinner and again this morning for breakfast…really curbed my sweet tooth! Also good to add local honey if you have allergies 🙂
Lacey. I am a newbie to protein shakes. It looks like I can use soy milk, right?
What do you recommend for a good protein powder?
Is there any reason I can’t make this into a smoothie with my Ninja?
Hi Diana! Thank you for your question. I’m Lacey’s blog moderator and can help you with this. First of all, welcome to the exciting world of protein shakes! Soy milk is awesome in smoothies/shakes, your Ninja will work great, and for a good protein powder…Lacey generally goes with Pea protein powder. You can learn more about the top 4 protein powders (and how to choose one) here: https://www.asweetpeachef.com/best-protein-powders/
I hope this helps! Jen.
What protein powder do you use. I can’t find one that I like the taste of.
Same question, what protein powder do you use?
Awesome recipes! They are not only delicious, they are good for you!
hey,
thank u so much for the recipe but just one question can u use any yogurt if you don’t have greek yogurt at all
thank you xx
Kareena
Ofc can you use any type. She just recommended Greek yougurt since it’s a healthy option.
Can this be made ahead with fresh fruit leaving out the ice cubes? I’ve seen where you can freeze protein shakes
Delcious, love a nice strawberry milkshake, thanks for sharing recipe.
Simon
You’re so welcome!
Fuck, this came out so gross… I could taste the bitter grittiness of the protein powder.
The only thing bitter is YOU.
Go back under your bridge you troll.
This protein smoothie tastes delicious !
Seriously! Get a grip. Protein powder is something you have to get use to. Just use less to start with and add more as you get use to it. No one said healthy eating is tasty. You have to make the best of the situation. As she said not every protein powder is the same. READ.
Hey Lacey , where is that yogurt available? And I am Greek 🙂
Hi Peter! 🙂 I have found it at several local grocery stores (HEB, Whole Foods, etc.). Here’s a link for the company and type I use for this recipe which also has info on where to buy it: http://www.greekgodsyogurt.com/24oz-products/honey-strawberry/
LOVED this! But is it ok to use normal, lactose-free milk? and what can i do if i do not have protein powder?
Yes, lactose-free milk will be just fine. Without the protein powder, this shake will still taste good, it just won’t have the high percentage of protein that you get with protein powder. There is still protein in the milk and greek yogurt, though.
do you have the nutritional facts?
Mary, it’s roughly 380 calories but I don’t have any further nutritional info at this time. I hope this helps!
sounds like a great healthy treat!
Thanks, Dina! We love it 🙂
Favorite protein shake