Chocco Cherry Recovery Smoothie

When cherry meets chocolate…..

The first time I shared this simple smoothie combo was on one of those hot days where after a workout, or simply after spending some time outdoors in the summer sun, it seemed like the only logical, and delicious, option!

Intense exercise can suppress your appetite, and so can the heat, so getting in some post workout nutrients in the form of a cool icy 'ice-cream like' drink can support recovery in such times, plus it tastes pretty darn good!

Ingredient breakdown and benefits

Frozen cherries - as well as providing some carbohydrates, cherries are high in anthocyanins (a type of antioxidant) which you can thank for the amazing colour as well as health benefits! Also a great source of other minerals including potassium.

Chocolate protein powder; (I used a simple stevia sweetened whey as a lot of the plant based blends don’t make me feel good....you do you!). Protein powders are such a convenient source of protein, and exercise increases the body's need for a higher protein intake.

Cacao powder; So many wonderful minerals in raw cacao including magnesium which is not only essential for recovery but is also depleted by stress, including the physical stress of exercise.

Pink or rock/sea salt; To replenish the minerals lost in sweat water alone will not properly rehydrate you if you sweat a lot. You could also add in electrolyte powder.

Oats; This is largely for texture in this recipe, and helps make thick creamy smoothies. You get in a little bonus fibre and carbs but you'd likely want to up the amount if you are using this as your main source of post workout carbohydrates.

Maca - this is optional. An adaptogen that can support balanced hormones, also a lovely source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C.

*If you want this to be more of a balanced snack and keep you fuller for longer you could also add in 1-2 TBSP of flax/chia/hemp seeds for some added omega 3 fats and fibre, OR 1-2 TBSP of almond butter would work beautifully with the cherries and cacao flavours!

Recipe

• 1 cup Frozen Cherries

• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder

• 1 TBSP cacao powder

• 2 TBSP oats

• A generous pinch of pink salt (or rock/sea salt)

• Optional: 1/2 TBSP maca powder

• Flavour enhancers - for those looking to maximise taste feel free to add in a little vanilla and/or cinnamon.