Today was certainly a hot one,  to say the least! We all know that when the high temps and humidity hit we need to increase our fluid intake as well as eat foods with a higher water content. The heat can also sway our food choices since we want something easy to prepare without too much fuss.  We just want to grab something that will cool us down but also at the sam time, be nourishing. I typically will have half of a healthy smoothie after a workout,  but today I opted to reach for a tall glass of one of my favs for lunch instead. It was just to darn hot to consider having anything else, so I was sure to include a little more protein and a small amount of healthy fats to fuel me throughout the day. The following recipe makes enough for 2 smaller or 1 large serving,  so if having it as an occasional meal replacement you may enjoy the entire thing! I also used abut 1 1/2-2 tsp of Raw Coconut Butter (not coconut oil) which is like eating the flesh of a fresh coconut. Delicious for sure but resist the temptation to eat it by the spoonful as it is very calorie dense and is higher in saturated fat than almond or peanut butter. Artisana  Coconut Butter contains ONLY raw coconut so you will be getting the fiber and protein of the whole fruit.

Blueberry Kale and Coconut Smoothie
1 cup fresh or frozen organic blueberries
3 organic kale leaves (center rib removed) chopped
1/2 banana 
1 cup Almond Breeze Unsweetened Almond Milk 
1 Tb Flax Seed
1 Tb raw organic honey (or stevia extract to taste)
1/2 to 1 scoop of Vega One protein powder
1-2 tsp raw coconut butter or raw almond butter ice

Put all ingredients in blender and give it a whirl, adding ice as desired for a cold creamy consistency. Enjoy!