I don't have much of a sweet tooth (as I've written about before) but I needed something special this afternoon. Something that would give me a bit of a boost, with natural sugars, and keep my belly feeling full for a while. Something rich, decadent and hearty.

Most people would think I'm talking about a brownie or a cookie. Nope. This sweet treat comes in a glass.

Dates and bananas are two great sweet ingredients to use when you're trying to avoid "real" sugar. Paired with almond milk and rolled oats, they whip up into a quick, easy, and totally satisfying slurry. It's so rich, I'd almost call it a milkshake. This is a great mid-morning or mid-afternoon pick-me-up, with just four simple ingredients.

Banana Date Oat Smoothie
Yield: 1 serving

4 medjool dates, chopped
1 cup almond milk
1 banana
1/4 cup rolled oats

1. Puree chopped dates with almond milk on a high setting until the dates are just little brown specks.
2. Add the banana and puree until smooth.
3. Add the oats. Puree immediately or pulse to combine and allow to soak 2-3 minutes before pureeing.

Note: I like this smoothie at room temperature but if you want it cold, consider using a frozen banana instead of fresh. A bit of nut butter would also add great flavor and texture.



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