Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie

Doesn't this look like a really naughty food? It's not.

When I buy a container of cocoa powder I try to find new ways to use it. Last time I had a tub I made truffles, black bean brownies, hot cocoa and a few other things that shall remain nameless.

Ever on a quest to incorporate more chocolate into my life I thought "why not a smoothie?" This is not your grandmas smoothie. Im not really sure what that phrase means, but it seems applicable.

Since I usually drink (sometimes chew) a smoothie instead of eating a meal, I require that my smoothies are packed with nutrients, flavor and are filling to boot.

For some reason people assume chocolate is bad for you, but that is because they are used to the awful commercial chocolate which is so diluted with milk and sugar it can hardly be called chocolate.

Some health benefits of cocoa:

Enhances mood: The regular consumption of pure cocoa uplifts mood and also keeps an individual more active. It improves ones life by giving energy to their muscles and by improving glucose metabolism. The mood elevating effect of cocoa is due to the presence of phenylethylamine.

Depression and Stress relief (Cocoa is a powerful anti depressant and hence gives relief from stress and depression.)

Improves blood flow

Lowers high blood pressure (The flavonoids in cocoa brings down the systolic and diastolic blood pressure.)

Fights Aging and Skin Problems (Cocoa contains flavanols that helps vascular tissues to relax which improves blood vessel function and also give a glow to the skin.)

Improves digestion

Soooo...This counts as a healthy recipe. On top of the benefits from the cocoa there is some protein and other benefits if you use almond milk and peanut butter.

Healthy Chocolate Smoothie:
One frozen banana
1/4 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or any milk you like)
2 T cocoa Powder
2 raspberries
Drizzle of Agave
1 T of Peanut Butter (or any nut butter)

Blend the first three ingredients.
Drizzle with agave.
Dollop with pb.
Enjoy!



Nom nom nom....