Vegan banana-chocolate breakfast smoothie

Just one of a few innovative ideas to start your day!

We’ve all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day but let’s face it, not everyone has the time, energy or inclination to prepare and enjoy a big meal first thing in the morning. I’ve met many people who’ve told me they can’t possibly eat before 9 or 10 a.m., while others say the best they can do is to try to wolf down something as they are running out the door. There are, of course, myriad fast food breakfast offerings out there which may be convenient, but not always healthy. I’ve been thinking quite a lot lately about portable, nutritious breakfast foods – things that you can have pre-made or partially prepared and quickly pull together to take with you as you start your day. As most people know, smoothies are the perfect thing; here’s my favourite recipe. No need to feel guilty about having chocolate for breakfast!

Ingredients

• 5 ice cubes
• 1 cup (250 mL) unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk
• 1 ripe banana, peeled*
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons (30 mL) cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon (15 mL) maple syrup
• optional: 1 tablespoon (15 mL) vegetable-based protein powder

* Whenever I have too many ripe bananas on hand, I throw them in the freezer to use later in smoothies, muffins, etc. For this recipe, you can run the banana under hot water for a minute to thaw it enough to peel, or microwave it for 45 – 60 seconds on medium high power.

Method

• Put all ingredients in the blender in the order given above.
• Blend until ice is crushed and the mixture is smooth. It will be quite thick.
• Pour into 2 glasses (or thermal cups) and enjoy!

Makes 2 servings.

Two more ideas:

Another favourite grab and go breakfast solution is these wholesome Date Square Muffins – they are so tasty that even the most reluctant breakfast eater could surely be persuaded to enjoy one.

Finally, one more great portable breakfast idea, especially for teens whose tastebuds can be affected by hormones, stress and fatigue is to offer a yummy savoury option – like this Squash and Apple Soup. Make a big batch and freeze it in small containers. The soup can then be heated and poured into a thermal mug, perfect for sipping on the way to school or work.