Healthy protein shakes are my go-to pre and post-workout fuel. They are super easy to make and keep me full for the day ahead. I know a lot of people like the protein powder mixed into water, yet those are often full of additives. My homemade protein shakes contain 100% real food and plant-based ingredients.
Fuel up on plants AND energy with these recipes.
Table of Contents
Healthy Protein Shakes
I've broken this list into three categories: homemade smoothies that contain nuts, ones without nuts and ones with natural caffeine. Choose the list that fits your needs, then blend the shake you need in your life today. I can't wait for you to try these!
Plant-Based Protein Shakes
You don't need to 'pack in' the protein just to get a protein boost. The following recipes are completely made up of plants and give you a great boost of protein pre or post-workout, or to fuel your day. Give one a blend and enjoy the healthiest fast food out there!
Nut-Free Shakes
If nuts are a no for you then it might be hard finding a healthy plant-based protein option. Here is a list of recipes without nuts, yet still loaded with protein. Also, if one of the above recipes is enticing, feel free to swap out nuts or nut butter for the seed butter of your choice, and the nut milk for oat, rice, soy or hemp milk.
Naturally Caffeinated Protein Shakes
An 'energy drink' can be both filling and an energy boost. These recipes contain natural caffeine from tea or cocoa or cacao. They taste delicious and give you the protein and energy you need.
Healthy Shake FAQs
A shake can have as much protein as possible, yet still not be super healthy. My protein shake recipes have a good balance of protein, carbs and healthy fat. I load my protein shakes up with whole food ingredients and use plant-based protein for the gentlest, healthiest combinations.
They can be! Use whole food ingredients. You'd be surprised how much protein comes from plants. Use a plant-based protein powder without added sugar and with healthy fats. Ditch the weird additives and use real ingredients for the healthiest protein shakes.
It depends on what you put in them. Focus on adding plants, unsweetened plant-based milk (or water) and plant-based protein powder for the best results.
How to Add Protein to a Smoothie
While some protein powders are 'just add water,' I like a shake with more to it than weird ingredients and a weird taste. My homemade shakes use plants and plant-based superfoods for protein, healthy fats and whole-food carbs. You'd be surprised just how much protein comes from plants!
Try one of the above recipes then leave a comment below letting me know how energized you feel! My shakes are great pre and post-workout as well as a quick meal. A great way to get more plants into your diet while not sacrificing protein!
Michelle
This post came at a great time! I'm having jaw surgery and will need a protein-rich liquid diet during the weeks of my recovery. These are SUCH better alternatives to store-bought protein shakes. THANK YOU, THANK YOU! 🙂
Erin
Thanks for the nut-free section! It's hard to find nut-free protein sources when trying to stay plant-based.