Vegan Recipe Revamp: Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie

In an amazing feat of irony, my knowledge of nutrition has only expanded as I’ve aged and the appropriateness of wearing anything from the Junior’s department has disappeared.  Though I may not be wearing hip huggers anymore, I can still appreciate that the knowledge I’ve acquired can help me make decisions that will affect my energy, overall health and any type of jeans I may be sporting these days.

I remember my first visit to Jamba Juice, as I excitedly ordered what was essentially an extra large chocolate peanut butter milkshake, disguised as “health food:” the Chocolate Peanut Butter Power Moo’d Smoothie.  With 700 calories and 108 grams of sugar, there’s nothing healthy about it.  And though the drink contains, non-dairy milk (vegan, obviously), it also contains frozen yogurt that is made from regular milk.  Seriously, Jamba Juice, what’s the point?  Go dairy or go vegan, but don’t do both.

At our house, we’ve come up with our own Peanut Butter Smoothie with it’s own secret ingredient.  Fortunately, this hidden suprise has iron, calcium and vitamin K.  You may spot it on the ingredient list, but you won’t spot it in flavor!

• 1 frozen banana
• 2 T. cocoa powder
• 1 T. peanut butter
• 1 c. vanilla soy or almond milk
• 1 c. spinach
• agave or stevia to taste, if desired

Combine all ingredients in a blender until thick and frothy.  Serve in a glass and drink up!  Use care not to spill on your hot new jeans.

Photo via BusyVegan