Generally, I would say I have a bigger vice for savory things than sweet things (as evidenced by the empty can of Maui Onion and Garlic Macadamia Nuts I opened two days ago), but I have a soft spot for ice cream. Especially good ice cream. Our local grocery store, through their data mining predictive algorithms, has learned this about me. About once a quarter, they send me a coupon for a free pint of Ben & Jerry’s to reel me in and it works every time. The big problem about having Ben & Jerry’s in my freezer though is the cute little containers. They’re practically begging to be cradled in your hands as you dig in with a spoon and watch the latest episode of The Biggest Loser. Even if you share it, you’re still eating two servings.* To prevent ice cream from becoming one of my major food groups, I turn to smoothies. They’re cold and delicious and unlike ice cream they’re also completely acceptable to eat for breakfast. One of my favorite Ben & Jerry’s flavors is Cherry Garcia and this smoothie is a great healthy substitute for it.
Cherry Chocolate Smoothie
- 1 large banana or 1.5 medium bananas, frozen
- 1/2 C plain greek yogurt
- 3/4 C frozen cherries (I used dark tart cherries)
- 1 C milk, almond milk, etc
- 1/2 tsp vanilla
- 1/4 C chocolate chips (I used semisweet)
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and mix until combined. If the smoothie is too thick feel free to add more liquid. Drink up.
*While writing this post and musing about the size of a serving of Ben & Jerry’s Noel said, “Well, don’t we have one in the freezer you could look at?” This was followed by an awkward silence before I finally said, “Ummm . . . no.” Totally busted.
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