So I’m a big proponent of eating whole foods over any sort of meal replacement.

But I also recognize that convenience is key to consistency and sticking with a healthy diet long term.

That is why I think that Protein Shakes can be a great quick snack or, every so often, a meal replacement.

While whole natural foods are always better, a Protein Shake can provide you with the protein and energy you need quickly on the go to fuel your workouts and help you build muscle and burn fat.

Below is my FAVORITE quick, healthy protein shake. I don’t have to make anything. I simply dumb ingredients into my shaker and go. It is a great pick-me-up and can even boost my energy for workouts on days when I’m dragging.

It can even be a quick breakfast when I’m short on time and have to drink something as I coach.

And the crazy part is, I’m not even a coffee/espresso lover and I’m addicted to this.

So what is my favorite…..my GO-TO Protein Shake – The White Chocolate Americano 

So if you have an espresso machine at home, you can make this from scratch. I’ve also made a variation of this shake with the Cold-Brew Coffee Concentrate from Trader Joe’s.

Both work well as long as you refrigerate the coffee or espresso and add water and ice to the shake.

When I’m being even lazier, I simply go to a coffee shop…In my case, Starbucks.

Below is my recipe, which would honestly work with a variety of Protein flavors. I’ve used Vanilla, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Chocolate, Cappuccino…All can work.

Although my favorite is definitely the White Chocolate.

The White Chocolate Coconut Americano

(It’s a great way to refuel after my workout when I have to get right back to work!)

Ingredients:
12oz Americano (espresso and water or Cold-Brew Coffee Concentrate 4oz coffee, 8 oz water unless you want it stronger)
1 scoop White Chocolate Whey Protein Powder (I used Optimum Nutrition’s Gold Standard Whey)
1/4 cup Trader Joe’s Coconut Milk
Ice

Put everything in your shaker and shake then drink!

If you need an extra pick-me-up, you can even use 16oz of coffee or espresso!

What are your favorite quick Protein Shake Recipes? How do you eat healthy on the go?