Mango Kale Smoothie with Coconut and Mint

Let’s talk about America’s love affair with smoothies. I can’t decide if we have convinced ourselves that drinking a milk shake instead of a meal is A-OK or if smoothies really are a wonder food. Once I finally gave in to the health benefits of protein powder I became fascinated with blending my breakfast. I am certainly not the first person to make a green smoothie, but I do think I have created the perfect blend of vegetables and fruit for a vitamin rich, delicious, and portable meal.

Protein powder is a very personal thing. For instance, I cannot eat whey so I went on a quest to find vegan protein with very little sugar. I found perfection from a company called Arbonne who makes a delicious vegan based protein powder in chocolate and vanilla. Heed my advice; don’t start drinking this smoothie if you are not equipped for addiction.  This is not low calorie or low fat, but it is packed with vitamins, healthy fats, protein and antioxidants to keep you moving throughout the day.

I drink one Mango Kale Smoothie with Coconut and Mint every morning for breakfast (occasionally throwing in some chia seeds for added energy) and I am satiated until late afternoon.

I totally get the love affair.

Mango Kale Smoothie with Coconut and Mint

Servings: 1

Nutrition information: 420 calories, 15 grams fat, 27 grams protein, 30 grams sugar, 47 carbohydrates

Ingredients:

9 oz unsweetened vanilla coconut milk

2 tbsp. unsweetened organic shredded coconut

1 cup fresh kale, chopped

10 fresh mint leaves

1 cup frozen mango

2 scoops vanilla protein powder (your favorite brand)

Directions:

Add coconut milk, shredded coconut, kale, and mint into a blender (or vitamix); blend until smooth. Add vanilla protein powder and frozen mango; blend until smooth, scraping down the sides when needed. Pour and enjoy!