We love receiving new and exciting recipes from you smoothie addicts out there. This smoothie idea comes from Natalie Alcala, Chalkboard reader, fashion editor and vegan travel blogger extraordinaire.  If you’re not a fan of kale, this smoothie recipe goes the distance to make the whole business a sweet experience for you! Here’s Natalie’s advice on the matter.

This is my absolute favorite smoothie to serve kale skeptics. Although I love the taste of this nutrient-rich leafy green on its own, I understand that it takes a bit of getting used to for some, which is where cinnamon, bananas and fresh dates step in.

Date are considered “nature’s candy” for their high sugar content – a little goes a long way. A fantastic source for iron, fiber, protein and vitamins B, A and C, these guys also great energy boosters. If you’re looking for a quick, guilt-free sweet treat to keep you going throughout the day, popping a date or two will definitely do the trick! Medjool dates are the most common variety and are a major staple in raw dessert recipes.

You can purchase dates dried or fresh at the farmers’ market or natural grocery stores. Although both look near identical at first glance, dried dates are less plump and moist than fresh dates and are higher in calories.

Store dates in an airtight container for up to eight months in the fridge or up to one year in the freezer. Rinse and remove pits before using.

• Hot Date Smoothie Serves 1

• Ingredients:
  • leaves of 1 kale stalk
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 organic banana
  • 1 fresh Medjool date, pitted
  • 1 tbsp raw chia gel
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
• Instructions:

  First soak raw chia seeds in water for 15 minutes to make chia gel. Blend all ingredients together. Pour into a glass and chill in freezer for 10 minutes. Enjoy!