Mint Chocolate Smoothie

This smoothie is rich, refreshing, and surprisingly satisfying. It tastes like a mint chocolate treat, yet it’s built from things I actually want more of in my day like lentils, greens, and nuts. Brown lentils add body and staying power without changing the chocolate mint flavor, and other mild beans or chickpeas work well too. With frozen banana and frozen lentils on hand, it comes together fast. Use more milk for a thinner, sippable smoothie or less milk for a thicker, dessert-style blend, and feel free to swap in a different nut or seed butter.

Serves 1

1/3 cup frozen cooked brown lentils*
1 frozen banana
20 or more fresh mint leaves
Handful of spinach
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1 tablespoon almond butter
1 cup unsweetened milk of choice

  1. Add all ingredients to a blender.

  2. Blend until smooth. Serve immediately.

*How to Freeze Lentils for Smoothies
After cooking and draining, or rinsing canned lentils, spread them on a clean dish towel set on a baking sheet. Pat dry and let air dry in an even layer, stirring occasionally to ensure they are completely dry. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or container. Frozen lentils stay loose and are easy to scoop for smoothies.