Berry Smoothie

I went on vacation last week to Mexico.  I didn't have room for my blender and all the ingredients to make my beloved protein shakes.  Since my usual routine consists of at least one shake a day, I was a little worried how I would manage without them.  As it turned out, I managed even better!  Apparently the protein powder doesn't agree with me -- and I think I have tried a dozen different brands.  I've always thought it was the main ingredient in a healthy shake.  But yesterday I tried this recipe and now I realize that I do not need those expensive protein powders to make a healthy, delicious shake!  

1 cup coconut milk

spinach, small handful

1-2 dates

1/8 cup walnuts, crushed

1 banana

1/4 cup berries

Blend the coconut milk and spinach so they are pureed.  Add the dates and walnuts; blend in banana & berries until smooth.

I've trimmed the portion size of most ingredients in this recipe for the novice smoothie maker; it packs quite a dose of fiber -- especially for newly transformed gluten addicts like myself!  You can increase or decrease ingredients to your taste and it will still taste delicious. And there is actually a decent amount of protein if you are using all the ingredients. According to the USDA, here's your protein stats: 1 cup walnuts = 4g; 1 cup spinach = 1g; 1 banana = 1.3g; and 5 dates = 1g.

If you are hesitant to add greens, I understand completely.  I thought it would taste less than pleasant with spinach but you actually don't even know it's there.  And the more you add, the darker your smoothie will appear.  It will still taste delicious!

A special shout-out to Jessica McCormick for sharing this recipe with us!

"An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge."

Proverbs 18:15