HANDS-ON: 5 MIN. // TOTAL: 5 MIN. // SERVES 1
This super-chocolaty smoothie is a tasty nondairy option with no added sugars thanks to dates, which offer up lots of natural richness and a caramel-like sweetness. I originally designed this smoothie as a complete breakfast meal or snack for days when I’m hungrier. When you just need a little boost to tide you over, split the smoothie into two servings.
3 pitted dates
1 cup unsweetened chocolate almond milk
1 cup ice
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1 (5.3-ounce) container vanilla soy yogurt
1/2 banana, sliced and frozen
Dash of instant coffee or espresso granules (optional)
1 Place the dates in a small bowl; cover with hot water. Let stand for 3 minutes or until softened; drain.
2 Place the milk and dates in a blender; blend for 30 seconds or until pureed. Add the ice, cocoa powder, yogurt, banana, and coffee (if using); blend for 30 seconds or until smooth.
(SERVING SIZE: ABOUT 21/3 CUPS): CALORIES 302; FAT 7G (SAT 1G, UNSAT 5G); PROTEIN 9G; CARB 58G; FIBER 7G; SUGARS 37G (ADDED SUGARS 13G); SODIUM 200MG; CALC 48% DV; POTASSIUM 14% DV