At some point last year, I had a smoothie from Organic Avenue that blew my mind: a creamy, coconuty concoction blended with mint and chocolatey cacao nibs that was positively one of the yummiest things I had ever tasted. A few months & a VitaMix later, I set out to recreate the same smoothie experience. Matt and I were craving something cool and sweet on our balmy June evening, and a mint chocolate chip smoothie sounded like just the thing to satisfy our ice cream urges in a healthy way (not to mention the whole nostalgic factor: “mint chocolate chip” flavor brings me right back to being 10 years old again!)

The results were better than expected. The smoothie was creamy & luscious, slightly sweet and surprisingly refreshing – and the partially blended cacao nibs added  the perfect hint of crunch. I think it’ll be the perfect post-workout snack (coconut water supplies a ton of electrolytes) or filling, summery breakfast. Or  do as we did and split the smoothie into 2 fancy goblets, stick in the freezer for about 30 minutes, and enjoy as a faux ice cream treat! YUM.

Coconut Mint Chocolate Chip Smoothie

Serves 2 as a snack or 1 very hungry person

Water and meat from 1 young coconut

3 tablespoons cacao nibs

Handful of fresh mint leaves

Splash of vanilla extract (I am sure fresh vanilla bean would be even better!)

Maple syrup (sweeten to your liking. I probably used about 2 tsp)

Pinch or two of good quality sea salt

Blend well until smooth (cacao nibs will still be a bit gritty – that’s OK, they act as the “chips” to the smoothie!)