It is a SWEET thing when you can have “cookies” straight from the jar and feel zero guilt about it. I don’t know about you, but that’s music to my ears 🙂

I particularly love this smoothie because it is packed with nutrients like fiber, antioxidants, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids which promote healthy glowing skin.    

Ideal for anyone, and especially for the athlete when consumed as a post-workout recovery smoothie. It is a delicious way to replenish your fatigued muscles, while reduce inflammation and oxidative damage to your cells.

No wonder it’s the most popular smoothie among my clients who are athletes.

Here is what you need:

• 2 Tbsp almond butter (raw nut butters are best, if available)
• 1 Tbsp raw cacao powder
• 2 Tbsp chia seeds (for smoother texture soak the chia seeds in 1/2 cup water for 15 minutes to become gelatenized)
  
• 2 pitted Medjool dates*
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 scoop Epic Protein Vanilla Lucuma (or Vega Sport Protein)
  

*If your workout has exceeded 90 minutes, feel free to add an additional Medjool date.

Pour all of the ingredients into Vitamix or other high speed blender and pulse on high until mixture is thick and creamy. Add additional almond milk if too thick.
Pour into a glass jar and enjoy!

***Note on using protein powders:

The key to finding a high quality protein powder is asking the right questions…

• Is it organic and free of pesticides?
• Is it Non-GMO?
• How is it processed?
• Does it contain recognizable ingredients?
• Does it contain artificial or refined sugars?

I like using Epic Protein in my smoothies as it is one of the cleanest plant-based protein powders on the market. Only pure ingredients + superfoods without the added sweeteners or fillers. Just note that it doesn’t taste sweet as there are NO sweeteners or “natural flavors ” added whatsoever. Not even stevia extract. That’s what makes Epic proteins SO CLEAN. You can add your own sweeteners, like Madjool dates, raw honey or a banana.

If you are looking for a taste and are ok with ingredients such as “natural flavors” and stevia extract then I recommend Vega Sport Protein (comes in vanilla, chocolate and berry flavors. Delicious!)