This Vegan Strawberry Protein Smoothie is a delicious basic smoothie recipe, perfect for a post-workout meal or a mid-day snack! Simple ingredients make it a breeze to throw together.

This protein smoothie is my go-to to refuel my body after my workouts. It’s made with nutritious plant-based ingredients (that you likely already have in your pantry and refrigerator), paired with good quality vanilla plant-based protein powder. I’m always looking for ways to add more protein to my diet, and a protein smoothie is an easy and delicious way to do so.

To add more variety, I like to blend it with different kinds of fruit. Some of my favorites are pineapple chunks, mango, and blueberries. If using fresh fruit, just add a few ice cubes to thicken it a bit. For added nutrition, throw in a handful of spinach or kale leaves.

Plant-based Ingredients

Strawberries – I use frozen, but fresh works too. Just add ice if you want a thicker, more shake like consistency.

Banana – Banana makes this smoothie extra creamy. I use half, but feel free to throw in the whole thing!

Non-dairy Plant Milk – I personally use Plain, Unsweetened Soy Milk for the added protein, but any non-dairy milk will do.

Plant-based Vanilla Protein Powder – Many plant-based protein powders are available now at your local grocery or health food store. See below for more tips!

Cinnamon – Just a pinch adds just the right spice without being overpowering.

Natural Peanut Butter – I use organic creamy peanut butter (the kind you have to stir), but you can use almond or cashew butter instead. Try SunButter if you have a nut allergy.

Water – I add just enough to make it the consistency I like, but you may add more or less depending on preference.

How to Make: Vegan Strawberry Protein Smoothie

The only equipment you’ll need for this recipe is a blender. Exact measurements are listed in the printable recipe card below.

Step 1: Measure and add all of the ingredients to a blender. For the water, start out by adding 1/4 cup. Put the lid on the blender and blend until smooth.

Step 2: Take off the lid and check for consistency. If too thick, add another 2 to 4 tablespoons of water. If too thin, add a couple ice cubes or frozen strawberries.

Step 3: Pour into a tall glass and enjoy!

Smoothie Variations

This base recipe can be used as a blueprint for creating different smoothie flavors. Try these different variations:

Chocolate Smoothie – omit strawberries and cinnamon; use a whole banana (instead of half); use chocolate plant-based protein powder (instead of vanilla)
Tropical Smoothie – instead of strawberries use a tropical fruit blend such as pineapple and mango
Green Smoothie – omit strawberries; add a couple handfuls of leafy greens to your smoothie (fresh spinach or kale are popular choices)
Blueberry Smoothie – instead of strawberries use fresh or frozen blueberries
Peanut Butter Smoothie – omit strawberries; use a whole banana (instead of half); add an extra tablespoon of peanut butter (for a total of 2 tbsp)
Avocado Smoothie – omit strawberries and cinnamon; add pineapple; add either half a large avocado or a whole small one

How to Choose Plant-Based Protein Powder

Choosing a good quality protein powder can be overwhelming with all of the options that are available. When shopping, consider checking these three things:

1. Check the ingredients list for anything that may trigger any sensitivities you might have. Not all protein powders have the same ingredients, and some can vary greatly. For example, they may use different sources of protein, or sweeteners. Some have added ingredients to increase the vitamin levels.

2. See if the ingredients listed are real and recognizable. This means you may have to look up an ingredient if you aren’t quite sure what it is. Try to find powders without artificial ingredients, and opt for Organic when possible.

3. Check to see if the product is returnable. Nothing is worse than having a 30 serving tub of protein and either not liking the way it tastes, or having a sensitivity to it. Try to purchase returnable items if possible. Or, at the very least, buy the smallest container they have.

For a review on specific brands of protein powders, I found this article on Bon Appetit helpful. It felt honest and covered some of the lesser known brands, as well as the popular ones.

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