What’s one of my favorite things to enjoy post-workout or after a long, long, long sweaty walk in the summer? This nutty, chocolatey, fruity smoothie! It quenches my thirst, satisfies the desire for something tasty, and provides key nutrients to replenish my body. You can also play with the smoothie recipe and make it your own by adding in some extras, like a few spinach or mint leaves. Or, if you’re in a desserty mood, go for extra-dark chocolatiness by adding in more cocoa powder.

The almondmilk offers plant-based nourishment and, of course, provides liquid needed for rehydration. The almond butter adds nuttiness, texture, and plenty of nutrients, including protein and vitamin E.

Hint: Pre-prep all ingredients in advance. But don’t overthink this smoothie; just drink it. It’s delicious!

almond & chocolate-covered strawberry smoothie

Yield: 1 serving

Serving size: 1 1/2 cups

INGREDIENTS

• 3/4 cup sliced fresh organic strawberries, frozen (4 ounces)
• 1/2 small fully-ripened banana, sliced and frozen (2.35 ounces)
• 1 to 2 large ice cubes
• 1/2 cup unsweetened vanilla almondmilk or other plant-based milk
• 1/4 cup plain organic plant-based Greek-style yogurt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons natural almond butter, no salt added
• 1 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder made with fair trade cocoa beans
• Pinch of fine sea salt
• Optional garnishes: unsweetened cocoa powder, toasted sliced natural almonds and/or strawberry

DIRECTIONS

1. Add all ingredients except garnishes to a blender. Cover and blend on high speed until velvety smooth.
2. Serve in a tall chilled glass. If desired, garnish by dusting with cocoa powder, sprinkling with almonds, and/or placing a strawberry on the glass rim.

Per serving: 300 calories, 17g total fat, 2.5g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 5mg cholesterol, 310mg sodium, 33g total carbohydrate, 9g dietary fiber, 16g total sugars includes 0g added sugars, 14g protein (note: protein varies based on plant milk and yogurt selections)

Jackie’s Culinary Upgrades!

• In plant-based smoothies that use plant-based milk, try unsweetened vanilla almondmilk for a no-brainer hint of vanilla flavor
• Rather than ice cream, try a combination of plain plant-based Greek-style yogurt, frozen banana, and almond butter for an ice cream-like texture in a nutrient-rich way
• Don’t be shy when using unsweetened cocoa powder; it’s nutrient-rich and so so flavorful.
• A pinch of sea salt in a chocolatey smoothie balances and enhances taste!