Banana Chocolate Almond Smoothie

You should know that I’m not really a smoothie kinda gal. I love ’em, but I just don’t feel compelled to make them. Then my visited my sister, a smoothie enthusiast, and I was reminded of how easy and delicious a smoothie can be.

You won’t find things like protein powder in my blender, mostly because I’m suspicious of anything that’s not a real food. It’s totally possible that I’m denying myself a brilliant level of health by avoiding additives, but I just prefer simple, whole foods.

You also won’t find me drinking a smoothie as a meal replacement. Even if a smoothie were to contain the same nutritional value of a meal, for me, satisfaction is about more than just what I put into my body. My heart and soul have to feel satisfied, too. Nothing could really replace the joy of sitting down to the table to eat. That, and I need to chew in order to feel like I’m eating something! Am I crazy? I like smoothies for an afternoon snack or, if I have the luxury of a morning at home, as an opening act before a late breakfast.

This smoothie features a banana, a date (I love Deglet Noor dates), a little almond butter, almond milk, good quality cocoa powder, and ice. Blend it all together, adding a little water if you need to thin it out. The date adds sweetness, but honey is also a nice touch if you want a little more.

Whiz up one of these and let me know what you think!