Chocoholics often feel that nothing beats a rich piece of chocolate, a sumptuous slice of chocolate cake or a creamy serving of chocolate ice cream. Chocolate contains four times the amount of catechins as tea, and it contains the same heart-healthy flavonoids as red wine. However, the way chocolate is prepared can affect its potential health benefits. For those who want a healthy, low-fat chocolate option that’s easier on the waistline, smoothies may be the way to go.
This recipe for “Guilt-Free Banana Chocolate Smoothie” from Ellen Brown’s Super Smoothies: 100 Recipes to Supercharge Your Immune System (Crestline) is one way to get a full dose of delicious chocolate (in two forms). This smoothie is chock-full of other ingredients, including a potassium-rich banana, that are part of a healthy, balanced diet. When the kids are indulging in ice cream, this smoothie offers parents the same texture and taste without all the guilt.
Guilt-Free Banana Chocolate Smoothie
Makes 4 1-cup servings
1½ cups chocolate soy milk
3 ounces chopped dark chocolate
3 tablespoons cocoa powder, preferably Dutch-processed
2 tablespoons bee pollen
2 tablespoons flaxseed oil
2 cups sliced banana
1 cup chocolate frozen yogurt
2 tablespoons shaved chocolate for garnish (optional)
- Combine soy milk, chopped chocolate, cocoa powder, bee pollen, flaxseed oil, and banana in a blender or smoothie maker.
- Blend on high speed for 45 seconds or until mixture is puréed and smooth.
- Add frozen yogurt, and blend on high speed again until mixture is smooth.
Serve immediately, garnished with chocolate shavings, if desired.