Healthy Vegan Mint Chocolate Chip Smoothie Recipe | Dairy-free
This is my take on a healthy mint chocolate chip smoothie. It’s dairy-free, full of fiber, naturally sweetened and vegan. It’s a refreshing and healthy treat that’s as indulgent as it is nutritious. It’s not only better for you than a traditional ice cream shake but also irresistibly delicious. Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turned out!
Here’s my recipe for Mint Chocolate Chip Smoothie Recipe:
Makes 1 serving
- 1 cup of kale or spinach
- 1/2 banana (frozen)
- 1 cup oat milk (or dairy-free milk of choice)
- 1-2 Medjool dates
- A handful of cacao nibs, plus some for topping
- 1 teaspoon mint extract
- Slash of vanilla extract
- Splash of agave or honey
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
- A few ice cubes (optional, for extra thickness)
Blend all ingredients in a blender and top with extra cacao nibs.
Instructions:
- Blend the Base: In a high-speed blender, combine the oat milk, frozen banana, spinach, mint extract, dates, vanilla extract, chia seeds and ice (if using),. Blend until smooth and creamy. The spinach will give your smoothie a vibrant green color without altering the flavor.
- Incorporate the Crunch: Stir in the cacao nibs gently, or pulse the blender a few times if you prefer smaller pieces. This will give your smoothie that classic mint chocolate chip texture.
- Serve and Enjoy: Pour the smoothie into a tall glass and garnish with a few extra cacao nibs or a sprig of mint for a pretty presentation. Sip and enjoy the refreshing, guilt-free treat!
Why It’s Better Than an Ice Cream Shake:
- Dairy-Free and Digestible: Made with oat milk, this smoothie is perfect for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Oat milk is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious alternative to dairy.
- Fiber-Rich: The combination of chia seeds, spinach, banana, dates, and oat milk adds a significant amount of fiber, promoting healthy digestion and keeping you full longer.
- Natural Sweetness: With the natural sweetness from the banana and dates, this smoothie satisfies your sweet tooth without the added sugars found in traditional shakes.
- Antioxidant-Packed: Cacao nibs are a powerhouse of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and promote overall health. They also provide a delightful chocolate flavor without the added sugars of regular chocolate chips.
- Nutrient-Dense: Fresh spinach leaves are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, calcium, and folate, all essential for maintaining good health. Spinach also contains powerful antioxidants like beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which help protect cells from damage and support eye health. Aaaand! Vitamin K in spinach is crucial for bone health, aiding in calcium absorption and bone mineralization.
This Mint Chocolate Chip Smoothie is a healthier, more nutrient-dense alternative to an ice cream shake. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a guilt-free dessert. Give it a try and indulge in the creamy, minty, chocolatey goodness – without any of the guilt!
