COOKIES & CREAM SMOOTHIE (dairy-free)

Treat yourself to a grown-up decadent dairy-free delight! Instead of empty calories, this smoothie scores some anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, libido-boosting benefits thanks to the addition of pear, maca powder (optional), and chia seeds!  

Pears are rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants that promote vascular health and may protect against certain diseases.

Native to Peru and touted as the “Incan superfood”, maca has a slightly earthy, butterscotch taste and is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It has been used for centuries to increase energy, stamina, endurance, mood and memory.  Maca is also celebrated for its ability to boost sexual function in both men and women.

Chia seeds have a mild nutty taste and are rich in fibre, minerals, plant protein, antioxidants, and healthy fats. In fact, a 2 Tbsp serving of chia seeds contains approximately 4 grams of protein and 12 grams of carbohydrate, of which 11 grams are actually fibre!

For 2 servings, blend together until smooth:

• 1 cup unsweetened coconut water or almond milk

• 1 cup canned organic coconut milk (full-fat or light)

• 1 cup steamed-then-frozen cauliflower (or frozen cauliflower rice)

• 2 Tbsp Nuzest Clean Lean Smooth Vanilla protein powder or Further Food Collagen (non-vegan) or 1 Tbsp of each (here)

• 2 to 3 Tbsp cashew butter or 1/3 cup raw pecans

• 3 to 4 pitted Medjool dates

• 1 ripe pear, cored and diced

• 1 Tbsp white chia seeds

• 2 tsp maca powder (optional)

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Lakanto sugar-free monk fruit sweetener, Swerve sweetener, lucuma powder, pure stevia, maple syrup, or sweetener of choice, adjusted to taste (optional)

• optional toppings: grain-free granola, diced dark chocolate bar, bee pollen, Maldon salt flakes, cashew butter (melted with a touch of coconut oil here), or toppings of choice

This recipe was originally published on September 5, 2017. It was updated July 16, 2019.