Step by step

Method

4 steps

1. 1

   Break 1 ripe banana into chunks and hull 2–3 strawberries. If the banana isn't frozen, plan on a handful of ice at the end so the drink stays thick. Add the fruit to the blender with 1 scoop (about 20–25 g) vanilla or unflavored protein powder, 1–2 teaspoons sweetener if you want it sweeter, and 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa if you're going chocolate.

2. 2

   Pour in about ¾ cup cold milk (dairy or plant). Blend on high until the powder is fully dissolved and no fruit chunks remain, 30–45 seconds. Scrape the sides once if powder sticks above the blades.

3. 3

   Add a handful of ice and blend again until thick and frosty, 15–20 seconds. If it won't pour, add milk a splash at a time and pulse.

4. 4

   Taste — if it still tastes chalky, blend another 10 seconds or add a splash more milk. Pour into a glass and drink right away. You want a thick, cold protein smoothie that tastes like banana-strawberry with a creamy body — not chalky powder water or a blender brick that won't pour.