Chocolate Tart Cherry Smoothie

Um yum!! Okay, smoothies are my go to breakfast, because there are so many variations they never seem to grow old to me. One of my favorite combinations last spring and summer was anything with frozen tart cherries. Tart cherries are gold for runners, and Costco has frozen tart cherries. I stock up, or I pit my own cherries in the summer and freeze them for later use.

Since I am not so patiently waiting for warmer weather and spring, I needed a little refresher for sipping on. One of my favorite smoothies, and it’s worth re-sharing again and again and again. Chocolate and cherry is nothing but the best combination, and there’s no added sugars. Who adds sugar to their smoothies. The fruit adds enough sweetness along with the chocolate protein powder, and there’s a great tartness to the tart cherry.

Lets start sipping…….on this Chocolate Tart Cherry Smoothie

Tart cherries are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Really they are a runner’s nutritional powerhouse. Great for post workout recovery, inducing a peaceful nights rest, and for fueling workouts.

I am a little disappointed I hadn’t added them to my smoothies before. So glad Costco carries a big bag of organic tart cherries. This smoothie boosts antioxidant power, anti-inflammatory power, as well as essential fatty acids and potassium from the avocado, energy from the dates as well as essential minerals, and even more protein from the chocolate Svelte. Also, a quick tip, stuffing dates with peanut butter and using for fuel on long runs is great. They are more chewy, so if you don’t like chewing they may not be an option, but I love how peanut butter doesn’t upset the stomach and almost sticks to the insides, providing energy and the dates allow for a quick supply of readily available glucose. Just saying.

I added a little peanut butter as well, just for good measure and a handful of greens. The avocado gives it a nice smooth texture, and makes it a bit thicker. A great addition of essential fatty acids to start the day. The greens and avocado you can’t taste, so I think the kiddo’s will enjoy this smoothie as well. It’s really a creamy and rich smoothie with tons of nutritional value. R loves smoothies and mom’s sneaky with the greens.

This smoothie is a great way to add post workout fuel to replenish sore and tired muscles, protein and glucose stores, as well as fatty acids. The antioxidants are great for fighting oxidative damage, caused by our continuous exposure to environmental pollution and toxins and preservatives consumed through foods. What’s not to love?!

Enjoy a spring refresher.

Until Next Time Be Whole and Be Fit