The Mint Cacao Smoothie Bowl

Smoothie bowls are all the rage right now, and this is one to try! I like the idea of a bowl vs. a smoothie because you can actually chew some of the items in the bowl (ie: cacao nibs and crushed almonds). This process of chewing your food vs. sipping it through a straw is a very important part of the brain's requirement to become full and satiated during a meal.

From a nutrition standpoint, this bowl is packed with nutrients, and offers a healthy dose of high-fiber carbs and heart-healthy unsaturated fat. The chlorella won't change the flavor much, but will certainly brighten up the color and add some detox power!

Leave us a comment to let us know what you think about this recipe.

Ingredients:

¼ cup plain unsweetened almond milk

1 ½ frozen bananas

1/3 avocado

1 cup packed baby spinach

¼ tsp pure vanilla extract

1 to 2 drops pure peppermint extract

¼ tsp chlorella*, optional.  

1 Tbsp cacao nibs or carob chips

*Chlorella is an amazing detoxifier and immune booster. It's rich in vitamin B₁₂, chlorophyll and protein.

Toppings:

2 tsp crushed almonds 

1 tsp raw cacao nibs or carob chips

1 tsp hemp seed hearts

Instructions:

Add all ingredients except cacao nibs to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and fold in cacao nibs. Serve with toppings of your choice.

Enjoy!

Kelly Harrington, MS, RDN

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods