Chocolate Zucchini Smoothie with Almond Butter and Coconut Flakes Recipe
Introduction
This refreshing zucchini smoothie is a delicious way to sneak some veggies into your day. Creamy and naturally sweetened with Medjool dates, it combines cocoa and almond butter for a rich, satisfying flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini (chopped and frozen)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (plus more as needed)
- 4 soft Medjool dates (pitted)
- 2 tablespoons almond butter (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Handful of ice
- Chocolate chips (optional, for sprinkling)
- Coconut flakes (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a high-speed blender, combine the frozen zucchini, almond milk, pitted Medjool dates, almond butter, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Blend until smooth, adding more almond milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Step 2: Add a handful of ice to the blender and blend again until the smoothie is chilled and creamy. Pour into glasses, drizzle with extra almond butter, and sprinkle with chocolate chips and coconut flakes if you like. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Use frozen zucchini to keep the smoothie cold and creamy without watering it down.
- Substitute almond butter with peanut butter for a different nutty flavor.
- For extra protein, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder before blending.
- If you prefer a sweeter smoothie, soak the dates in warm water for 10 minutes to soften and blend more easily.
Storage
This smoothie is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir well before drinking, as separation may occur. It’s not recommended to freeze the smoothie after blending, as the texture can change upon thawing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh zucchini instead of frozen?
Yes, but using fresh zucchini will result in a less chilled smoothie. You may want to add more ice to achieve the desired coldness and texture.
Are Medjool dates necessary or can I use another sweetener?
Medjool dates add natural sweetness and a creamy texture, but you can substitute with maple syrup, honey, or another preferred sweetener to taste.
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Chocolate Zucchini Smoothie with Almond Butter and Coconut Flakes Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A deliciously creamy and nutritious zucchini smoothie packed with the natural sweetness of dates and a rich chocolatey flavor from cocoa powder. This refreshing smoothie is perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack, combining wholesome ingredients like zucchini, almond milk, and almond butter with warming spices and optional chocolate chips and coconut flakes for added texture.
Ingredients
Smoothie Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped and frozen
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, plus more as needed
- 4 soft Medjool dates, pitted
- 2 tablespoons almond butter, plus more for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Handful of ice
- Chocolate chips (optional, for sprinkling)
- Coconut flakes (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chopped frozen zucchini, unsweetened almond milk, pitted Medjool dates, almond butter, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and nutmeg in a high-speed blender.
- Blend Smooth: Blend all the ingredients until completely smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add more almond milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Add Ice and Blend Again: Add a handful of ice to the blender and blend once more until the smoothie is chilled and creamy.
- Serve: Pour the smoothie into glasses. Drizzle with additional almond butter, sprinkle with optional chocolate chips and coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Freezing the zucchini beforehand helps create a creamy smoothie texture without needing too much ice.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or fewer Medjool dates depending on preference.
- Unsweetened almond milk keeps this smoothie dairy-free and low in calories; alternatives like oat or soy milk work well too.
- Optional toppings like chocolate chips and coconut flakes add a nice texture contrast but can be omitted for a simpler smoothie.
- Medjool dates must be pitted to avoid damaging your blender blades and to ensure smooth texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: zucchini smoothie, healthy smoothie, vegan smoothie, almond butter smoothie, chocolate zucchini smoothie, nutrient-packed smoothie, dairy-free smoothie
