Strawberry Protein Shake (4 Simple Ingredients)

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With 27g protein and only 200 calories, this Strawberry Protein Shake is perfect for weight loss, muscle gain, or a delicious protein snack!

Ingredients

1.5 cups (225g) frozen strawberries
¾ cup milk (180g), any kind, or water
1 scoop (31g) lightly-flavored vanilla whey protein
1 tablespoon sweetener, optional (I used granulated erythritol, 12g)

I highly recommend this lightly-flavored vanilla whey protein isolate for shakes and smoothies. The taste won't compete with the strawberries here, and the powder is unsweetened so you can sweeten this smoothie however you like (or not at all!).

Read more about why I love this protein powder here: the best protein powder for shakes and smoothies.

Equipment Needed

kitchen scale - highly recommended for best results and easy cleanup
high speed blender - this is my favorite smoothie blender. Great bang for your buck!

How to make a Strawberry Protein Shake

Start by adding the frozen strawberries to the blender. Then add the milk, protein powder, and sweetener (is using).
Blend 30-60 seconds, or until smooth and creamy.
Pour into your favorite milkshake glass, top with sugar-free whipped cream and crushed freeze-dried strawberries (totally optional), and enjoy!

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this delicious recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Here are some substitutions you can try:

Milk: Any kind of milk would work here. Coconut milk would offer a bit of a flavor twist, and Fairlife milk would offer some extra protein.
Frozen Strawberries: Use fresh berries and add a few ice cubes to keep the shake cold.
Protein Powder: I highly recommend the vanilla protein powder used here for the best tasting smoothies because it lets the fresh fruit flavors shine. But yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite protein powder flavors or types. Although I haven't found a vanilla plant-based protein powder that I can recommend (taste-wise), I love this chocolate plant-based protein powder.
Sweetener: I usually opt for a calorie-free sugar substitute like granulated erythritol. But really any sweetener would be great here.

Recipe Variations

Strawberry Banana Protein Shake: Add a frozen banana for a flavor twist and enjoy a Strawberry Banana Protein Smoothie.
Chocolate Strawberry Protein Shake: Use chocolate protein powder (I recommend this plant-based meal replacement protein powder) and some sugar free chocolate chips for a Chocolate Strawberry Protein Smoothie.
Strawberry Chia Collagen Smoothie: Swap the whey protein with collagen peptides, add some chia seeds and enjoy a Strawberry Chia Collagen Smoothie.
Strawberry Shortcake Smoothie: Add a handful of sugar free vanilla butter cookies before blending. YUM.

Storage Info

While it's best to enjoy protein smoothies fresh, you can store any leftovers of this strawberry shake in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. I love these thermal tumblers for keeping shakes in the fridge and for taking them to go on busy mornings.

Pro Tip

Pour this strawberry protein shake into an ice cream maker for homemade high protein strawberry ice cream. SO GOOD!

FAQ

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Absolutely! However, using frozen strawberries adds a chill factor and a thicker consistency to the shake. If you use fresh strawberries, you'll probably want to add a few ice cubes to keep the shake cold.

Is it necessary to add sweetener?

No, it's optional. Adjust the sweetness based on your taste preferences. The protein powder I'm using here (this whey isolate) is unsweetened, so I usually add sweetener.

Can I make this protein shake ahead of time?

While it's best fresh, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. I love these thermal tumblers for keeping shakes in the fridge and for taking them to go on busy mornings.

Can I use a different type of protein powder?

I highly recommend the vanilla protein powder used here for the best tasting smoothies because it lets the fresh fruit flavors shine. But yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite protein powder flavors or types. Although I haven't found a vanilla plant-based protein powder that I can recommend (taste-wise), I love this chocolate plant-based protein powder.

Is this shake suitable for weight loss?

Yes, it's a great addition to a low-calorie diet, providing a satisfying and nutritious option. Check out more easy protein shake recipes that are great for weight loss.

How can I make this protein shake thicker?

Add a frozen banana or ¼ teaspoon xanthan gum for a thicker consistency. I generally don't recommend adding ice cubes to shakes (unless they are needed to keep the shake cold) because they dilute the flavor of the smoothie.

Can I use this protein shake as a meal replacement?

Yes, with its protein content, it can serve as a fulfilling meal replacement. If you are replacing more than one meal with a shake, however, I suggest getting a meal replacement protein powder that comes with extra nutrients.

Is this strawberry protein smoothie kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the sweet and fruity taste, making it a healthy treat. If you have any concerns about serving your child protein powder, please consult your pediatrician.

More strawberry deliciousness

If you enjoy this recipe, you may enjoy this Strawberry Chia Protein Smoothie for a collagen and chia boost, this Strawberry Chocolate Protein Shake for the taste of chocolate covered strawberries, and this Strawberry Banana Smoothie for a banana berry protein kick!

And if you love strawberry goodies, try these easy Strawberry Protein Cookies.

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