Mint Chocolate Kale Smoothie

You’ve probably never thought about combining the flavors of mint and chocolate with kale but hear me out.  I was talking with a mom at my son’s swim lessons this summer and found out that we both are fanatics about eating whole foods, green smoothies and fermenting veggies!  She had her own green smoothie in a mug and I asked her what was in it.  She told me it was a mint chocolate kale smoothie…say what? She told me it was a Vitamix recipe and I looked it up on youtube.  I made a few changes, used only whole food sweeteners and this is what I finally got.

The first time I made it I held my peppermint essential oil over the Vitamix and started shaking…BAD idea. Essential oils are SO potent, it literally only takes 3 drops, not 15-20 like I had the first time.  I use toasted carob powder instead of cocoa powder which gives me a stomach ache.  The toasted carob powder works great and is more gentle on my stomach.  I usually have more fruity tasting smoothies in the morning but this is a nice way to mix it up.  Enjoy!

Mint Chocolate Kale Smoothie

1 1/2 c. water

1/4 c. shredded unsweetened coconut

3-6 pitted dates depending on size (I use 4 large medjool dates)

1/2 avocado (optional, but I include it if I have it on hand)

1 whole frozen banana

3 drops pure high quality peppermint essential oil

2 T. carob powder

2 handfuls of kale/spinach

1 tray full of ice cubes.

Blend until smooth. * You can also add a tablespoon of chia seeds if I have any around.