Smoothies Instead of Milkshakes
One day this summer my youngest said to me, “I’m craving a milkshake.” I agreed that one did sound good on that relatively warm day. However, that is something we rarely purchase. So my next thought was to make one at home, but we didn’t have any ice cream. I wonder what happened to all the ice cream in the freezer?
Alright then, time to conjure something up!
I went into the kitchen and set out several ingredients that would go well together. Cacao powder, maca powder, maple syrup, and sunflower seed butter. So what would replace the ice cream? I then remembered a recipe I have made a few times using frozen bananas as an ice cream substitute. So I chopped up a banana and put it in the freezer. Want an eco-friendly tip for freezing the bananas? Use one of these instead of a plastic bag.
Once the banana was frozen, it was time to create! As I placed the ingredients in the Vitamix, I had a thought. Why not add some spinach? I mean who can’t use a bit more green in their diet? After a few changes to the recipe, I had a winner. And so the Cacao Banana Smoothie was created!
Cacao Banana Smoothie
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- 1 frozen (cut up) banana
- 1 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 handful of greens (spinach, kale or chard)
- 1 tbsp cacao powder
- 1 tbsp sunflower seed butter (or any nut butter)
- 1 tsp maca root powder
- ½- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
Place all ingredients in a blender. For best results add the greens first and then follow with the remaining ingredients.
Blend until smooth and enjoy! For an extra touch, sprinkle some cacao powder on top.
To make a thicker “shake” or smoothie, add more banana or less liquid. Please use organic ingredients whenever possible. The ingredients in this smoothie are relatively common, except for the maca root powder.
So what is maca root powder and why add it? First off, it’s tasty. It has a nutty vanilla flavor. Even more important are the health benefits of this antioxidant-rich superfood. Maca root is a cruciferous vegetable that is considered an adaptogen. Adaptogens help the body adapt to stress.
Additionally, it is also energy enhancing and hormone balancing. Maca root is also a good source of protein, fiber, vitamin C, copper, and iron. As with any supplement, always consult a qualified health professional before making dietary changes, especially if you are on any medication or are experiencing health issues. You can purchase maca root powder here.
I would love to hear your results if you decide to try this recipe. As for me, I’m headed out to the garden so that I can visit with the plants while I enjoy a tasty cacao banana smoothie.
This blog is for informational purposes only and is educational in nature. Statements made here have not been evaluated by the FDA. This blog is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please discuss with your own, qualified health care provider before making any dietary or lifestyle changes.
Read more here about maca root
Daughter of the Earth, Mother of her creations. Ivanna (Evie) doesn’t care for titles, but the ones that fit best are homeschool mom, herbalist, and blogger. Her greatest joy is guiding others to find true wellness within themselves and Mother Earth. When not spending time with her beloved family, she can be found researching everything related to holistic wellness, crafting herbal remedies, or visiting with the plants in the Magical Garden.
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