BEST. SHAKE. EVER.

Sick of boring, chalky-tasting protein concoctions? Us too. Prepare your blender for a flavor revolution.

- PAUL KITA

IT WOULD BE easier, we guess, to shell out $15 for one of those sweet, creamy protein shakes at the grocery store or the smoothie shop, but, well: $15?! Plus, there's a reason those shakes taste so good, and it ain't the protein. Some of the packaged bottles and prepared bowls can contain 35, 45, or even 55 grams of added sugar. Which is a shame because smoothies are a great way to knock back more muscle-building protein and stomach-filling fiber.

Powerfully delicious smoothies don't have to contain a ton of the sweet stuff to taste awesome. To prove it, we pulled together our favorite smoothies of all time and even broke down the steps to build your own. All you have to do is hit "blend."

The DIY Shake Creator

STEP 1 START WITH ALIQUID

The base should have little to no added sugar and come in under 80 calories a cup. You want 4 to 12 ounces, depending on what kind of texture you like.

OPTIONS: diluted tart cherry juice, unsweetened almond or coconut milk, green tea.

STEP 2 CHOOSE YOUR PRODUCE

Fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables amp up the nutrients, fiber, and flavor.

For amounts, go with 1 to 2 handfuls of greens and a½ cup to 2 cups (total) of everything else.

OPTIONS: spinach, carrots, kale, beets, celery, cucumber, cherries, apple, banana, peach, pear, pineapple, mango.

STEP 3 SCOOP IN PROTEIN