The banana cacao smoothie is one of my favourite recipes. It's easy to make with only 4 ingredients including cacao nibs and tastes wonderful. I love drinking the smoothie to refuel my body after a long run or intense exercise. It's also great for breakfast.
Are you wondering what cacao nibs are? Cacao nibs are cacao beans that have been peeled and chopped up. I think of them as a crunchy superfood version of chocolate chips.
What are the benefits of cacao? Cacao is one of the foods with the highest source of antioxidants and plant-based iron. It is full of magnesium, manganese, calcium, chromium, and anandamide the “bliss chemical” making it a natural mood elevator and anti-depressant. This superfood also contains plant-based protein, good fats and healthy carbohydrates. It can improve cardiovascular health, helps builds strong bones and is a natural aphrodisiac.
BANANA & CACAO SMOOTHIE RECIPE
Serves: 1 Prep time: 5min
Ingredients
1 cup purified water
1 banana (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoons cacao nibs
1 tablespoons peanut butter
Handful of ice
Equipment: Blender
Method: Blend all ingredients in your blender until smooth. Serve cold.
Tip: When your bananas begin to over ripen, you can peel them and then cut them in half to freeze them for use in your smoothies.