Cherry Chocolate Smoothie

Today, instead of my usual post-run chocolate protein shake, my "second breakfast" was the Cherry Chocolate Smoothie from the two-week meal plan in the March/April 2010 issue of Clean Eating Magazine. What a nice change! It was refreshing, pretty, and incredibly tasty. Also very filling! It reminded me of strawberry cheesecake. It was so dessert-like that had to remind myself that it really *is* designed for clean eating. I've never claimed to be a big fan of fast-food ice cream to begin with, but I'm going to go so far as to say this was better than a Wendy's Frosty.

Cherry Chocolate Smoothie

from Clean Eating Magazine

serves 2, or 1 really hungry person

instructions written by Kate

8oz low-fat milk

4 frozen strawberries

1/2 cup frozen cherries

1/4 cup chocolate protein powder

4 ice cubes

1. Pour milk into blender and add protein powder. Begin blending on low speed.

2. When liquid forms a vortex, increase speed and slowly add frozen fruit. Allow to fully incorporate between additions.

3. Continue blending until your desired consistency is reached, and smoothie is a pleasant pink color. Pour into two glasses and enjoy--with a straw or without.

I use three ice cubes, and it was plenty thick. I had half immediately after my 5-mile run, and put the other one in the fridge to enjoy later. An hour after I made it, it was still delightfully cold and creamy. This would be an excellent summery dessert alternative.