*This post includes some affiliate links. That means I may make a few pennies if you choose to purchase, but your price is never impacted.*
I’m not going to lie: I’m picky, especially when it comes to protein shakes. Hands down, I make the best protein shake. Not only does it need to be healthy, it’s just as important to me that it tastes good. If I don’t enjoy drinking it and look forward to it each day, I’m not going to go to the trouble of dirtying the blender. Today I’m going to share with you my top two recipes and some variations based on your preferences and favorite ingredients.
Before we get into the recipes though, I have to share a few under-appreciated tips for creating your best protein shake.
- Make sure you have a great blender!
Ever had a clumpy protein shake? Yeah, that’s gross. Especially because I’m a huge fan upping the nutrient density and volume by adding cauliflower rice. It has no flavor and takes on whatever it’s with, but you want it to be creamy and smooth, so a good blender is a must. For the last 10 years, I’ve used a Vitamix. Yes, they’re pricey, but they last. If I did the math on the price per use, it would be pennies. - Choose a quality protein powder
Here’s the deal – not all protein is created equal, at all. I won’t tell you “the best” because that depends on your goals. The best I can do is share my criteria for selecting a protein powder and the one I love most. I want to make sure I’m getting at least 15-20 grams of protein in my shake and I want to be sure it’s high quality, “clean”, and a form that is easily digested. It’s also important to me that it’s low in both carbohydrates and sugars. I don’t want artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners. But at the same time, it has to taste great and mix well. I’ve tried a ton and the vast majority leave me disappointed. Currently, there’s one that I truly love and it’s Amare’s GBX Protein. It comes in vanilla, chocolate and salted caramel. I use the vanilla and chocolate most. One serving delivers 17g protein, only 4g carbohydrate and zero sugar. Yes please!
The Best Protein Shake – My Two Favorite Recipes
As of when I’m writing this, I’m pregnant with twins and this one is my daily favorite. Sometimes it’s breakfast, sometimes it’s lunch, sometimes it’s dinner, but it’s always part of my day. When I drink it, I know I’m getting some veggies, protein, fat and some carbs from a whole food source. And of course, it’s delicious, otherwise I definitely wouldn’t drink it! My 11 month old is a big fan, too!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana
Add all ingredients into your blender and blend until creamy!
- Approximately 2 cups water (you can absolutely use your favorite milk, if you’d prefer)
- 1/2 cup frozen cauliflower rice
- 1/2 banana
- 1 tbsp nut butter (I use cashew butter most often)
- 2 scoops chocolate protein (this is the one I swear by)
If you’re looking to pump up the protein even more, add 1/2 cup of greek yogurt! If you’re looking to stay even lower carb, you can ditch the banana and/or just use 1/4 of it. At the same time though: don’t stress over 1/2 a banana. No one has a weight issue because they put 1/2 banana in their protein shake, ya know? #perspective
Green Protein
Add all ingredients into your blender and blend until creamy!
- 2 cups unsweetened milk of your choice (I use almond or cashew milk)
- 1 handful raw spinach
- 3/4 cup frozen cauliflower rice
- 1/2 cup frozen blueberries (you can use any fruit you love – I like blueberries or mango best)
- 2 scoops vanilla GBX Protein
- *optional 1 tbsp chia seeds
- *optional 1 scoop mentabiotics
- *optional 1 tbsp maca
I have a million variations of these shakes based on what I’m in the mood for and what I have on hand. Sometimes I skip the spinach but I rarely skip the frozen cauliflower rice. These are a great way to pack in a super nutrient-dense meal AND have something very quick and easy that you enjoy!
I have a coupon code for the protein I use, so reach out if you’d like me to share it!