Quick and Easy Breakfast: Berry Cacao Spinach Smoothie

Lately, it's been so freaking hot around here that the thought of a steamy bowl of oatmeal or something of that nature sounds like torture.  In these humid summer months, my breakfast tends to be one of two things:  mono-meal of hydrating fruit, such as watermelon, or a smoothie.  This week, I haven't made it to my usual watermelon spot, so I've been improvising.  I found a box of honey mangoes at the local Mexican market, so of course, I bought them all.  They make a fantastic breakfast!  Today, though, I felt more like having a smoothie.  If you're on-the-go and don't have time to sit down for a meal, this is a good way to start the morning.  The ingredients are super healthy and serve as perfect fuel for the body.

Spinach:  Rich in vitamin A, which is beneficial for the immune system and essential for good eyesight, plus vitamin K, a nutrient that assists with blood clotting and keeps bones healthy.

Blueberries and Strawberries:  Both extremely high in antioxidants, helping boost immunity, cut belly fat, and maintain brain health.

Hemp Seeds:  Contain the perfect balance, 3:1, of omega 3 to omega 6 fatty acids; and are a complete protein, containing all 20 amino acids, including the 9 essential amino acids that our bodies can't produce.

Raw Cacao:  20 times more antioxidants that blueberries(!!); contains phenethylamine, a mood booster; helps increase serotonin in the brain; great source of magnesium, a mineral that's needed for over 300 biochemical processes in the body, including keeping the heartbeat regular (very important for me!).  So, eat more chocolate!!

Any excuse to eat more chocolate is always good, am I right?  I love this smoothie SO much!  I've been making this one pretty regularly, and even the omnivore husband loves it. 

Berry Cacao Spinach Smoothie

1 cup frozen blueberries

1 1/2 cup frozen strawberries

1 frozen banana

2-3 cups fresh spinach

1-2 dates

1 tbsp. raw cacao (or cocoa)

1 tbsp. hemp seeds

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 1/2 cup water or coconut water, almond milk, coconut milk, etc.

Add all ingredients to blender and blend until smooth.  This also makes a great smoothie bowl topped with things like granola, shredded coconut, cacao nibs, or sliced fruit.

Note:  If you're making this in a "bullet" blender, like the Nutribullet, you'll want to blend the spinach, hemp seeds, berries, dates, and water first, then add the banana, cacao, vanilla and blend again.  This way, everything fits. 

Thanks for stopping by!

*I get a lot of questions about the straws I use.  You can find them here.