This delicious smoothie is a great way to boost your protein in a day. It's made with frozen banana, peanut butter, Greek yogurt, and vanilla. Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to make it even more filling!

Smoothie in a glass topped with cinnamon and a banana slice.

The last couple of years have taken a toll on my health, leaving me somewhat underweight and malnourished.

Because of this, I've looked to things I wouldn't ordinarily consider, including an immune-modulating medication and protein powders. The former for my allergies, and the latter for boosting my nutrition.

Both have helped, in their own ways, as I've been able to vary my diet a bit more, even trying a banana here and there.

Hence, today's shake!

Ingredients and substitutions

Ingredients laid out on a table, including banana, Greek yogurt, and peanut butter.

This is truly one of my favorite treats lately.

It's so creamy and really hits the spot when you want something sweet, yet healthy!

I know there are a zillion recipes for a peanut butter banana shake, but I truly love this recipe and wanted to share it.

Here are the ingredients you'll need.

Banana - One large frozen banana will do it! We try to freeze ours when they're super ripe, as that makes the shake sweeter.

Peanut butter - I recently discovered (more like, rediscovered) freshly ground peanut butter at Sprouts, and it's so good! If you can get your hands on some, it's worth it. If you're not a peanut butter fan, any nut or seed butter will do.

Greek yogurt - This yogurt is thicker and more mild in taste than plain yogurt, and it makes the shake so creamy.

Water - You can also use your favorite milk, if you prefer.

Vanilla extract - This adds SO much flavor; to me, it gives this shake a Butterfinger-type flavor.

Protein powder - You can omit this, if you like. I add a 1/2 scoop of 100% pure whey protein that my husband purchases from True Nutrition.

How to make a Greek yogurt protein shake

The great thing about smoothies and shakes is how easy they are to blend together.

To get a nice, smooth consistency, add your liquids and softer ingredients (like the yogurt) into the blender first, then add the remaining, more solid items, like the banana, last.

Banana, peanut butter, and water in a blender.

Which blender is best for smoothies and shakes?

Using a machine like a Vitamix or Nutribullet 900 is what I've found to be the best at mixing smoothies.

The Vitamix is superior, but the Nutribullet is a decent and economical alternative.

Advantages of adding Greek yogurt to smoothies

Smoothie being poured into a glass on a white plate.

This list is in reference to the plain, full-fat version of Greek yogurt. Low-fat will also work well, and it will up the protein even more!

It makes the smoothie or shake thicker, resulting in a more luscious consistency.
Yogurt adds protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied. 3/4 cup of Fage Greek yogurt boasts over nine grams!
Greek yogurt has less sugar than regular, plain yogurt, with Greek at five grams per 3/4 cup and plain at 7 grams per the same amount. This comes in the form of lactose, not added sugar.
Greek yogurt has a milder taste than regular yogurt. Regular yogurt tends to be a bit more tart.