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We’re major “smoothie people” around here. Especially when sweaters are replaced with tanks, boots with flip-flops, and the apartment stays in the upper 70s, despite air conditioning and fans.
On these days, a sweet, frozen, drinkable concoction is about the only snack that satisfies. And thankfully, with a freezer full of fruit, these blended treats come together in a minute or two. Homemade smoothies and shakes satisfy me in the way that a soft-serve cone does, but unlike, ice cream, they are packed with fiber, antioxidants and other nutrition benefits.
Yet despite my love affair with fruit, on occasion, the thought of another fruit smoothie sounds . . . boring.
Thus, sometimes my intention to make us a couple fruit smoothies evolves into an indulgent chocolate-y shake instead. No shame though.
Cacao powder (raw, unprocessed cocoa powder) is arguably the #1 superfood. Though it is quite bitter, the addition of some creamy coconut milk, luscious nut butter, and sweet honey transform cacao into a chocolate dream. Add some cinnamon and sea salt to round out the flavors, and you’re golden, my friend!
Oh, and I added (2!!!!) veggies for optimal nutrition. But no worries, all the delicious ingredients hide the any veg flavor perfectly.
So, keep that blender on the counter during these summer days. Because frozen chocolate concoctions are going to be made on a regular basis.
And make me one while you’re at it 😉 Cheers!
Secretly Healthy Salted Chocolate Shake
Ingredients:
1/3 medium zucchini, peeled, chopped and frozen
1/2 banana, frozen
1 tbsp raw honey, or coconut nectar
3 tbsp cacao powder, or cocoa powder
2 heaping tbsp pumpkin puree
1 1/2 tbsp peanut or almond butter
1/2 c chilled full-fat canned coconut milk
3/4 c vanilla almond milk (homemade or Califia Farms are best)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/8 tsp Himalayan sea salt
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional: ice or frozen milk cubes for a thicker texture
Method:
Add everything to a high speed blender and blend for 30 seconds or until smooth and cream. Garnish with cacao nibs, pecan pieces, and coconut.