Blended Bliss

(Family Features) Looking for a healthy, convenient and delicious breakfast boost, afternoon refuel or sweet treat? If so, break out the blender and whip up a delicious and nutritious smoothie.

Made with fruits and vegetables, smoothies provide important nutrients that our bodies need. When prepared with chocolate milk, they can also be an excellent source of protein — and a tasty treat for kids and adults alike.

“Chocolate milk is a delicious and nutritious base for smoothies because it not only contains protein and minerals, it also provides calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health,” said registered dietitian Rebecca Scritchfield. “Plus, combining a nutrient-rich option such as TruMoo Chocolate milk with fruits and vegetables like bananas, berries and kale is a great way to get kids to consume the nourishment they need, all in an enjoyable treat.”

Made with fresh white milk — sourced from your local dairy — pure cocoa and just enough natural sugar to make it taste great, TruMoo Chocolate milk is delicious whether it’s a smoothie base or enjoyed on its own. And with no high fructose corn syrup and no artificial growth hormones, you can feel great about serving it to your family.

If you’re not sure what to put in your smoothie, you can get creative with the ingredients you already have on hand. If you’re a fan of PB&J sandwiches, simply combine chocolate milk with bananas, peanut butter and jelly for a delicious take on the classic lunch staple.

Trying to get your kids to eat their veggies, such as kale, is easier when they’re disguised in chocolate-y goodness. And if you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, combine low-fat brownies, ice and chocolate milk.

Incredible Ingredients Make the Smoothie
Besides its creamy goodness, the best thing about a smoothie is the ability to create your own culinary masterpiece. Grab the kids and combine some of these tasty ingredients with chocolate milk for a flavor that's 100 percent unique and completely satisfying.

• Apricots
• Baby spinach
• Blueberries
• Cherry tomatoes
• Pineapple
• Oats
• Tart cherries
• Raspberries

Each of the following single-serving recipes shows you how deliciously easy it is to create a unique and flavorful smoothie to fit any craving. For each recipe, combine ingredients in a blender, mix until smooth and frothy, and serve.

For more delicious recipes, visit www.TruMoo.com, or look for TruMooMilk on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

Chocolate-Berry Blast

Ingredients

• 1 cup TruMoo Chocolate milk
• 1 cup frozen mixed berries
• 1 tablespoon golden flaxseed meal

Preparation

1. Combine ingredients in a blender, mix until smooth and frothy, and serve.

Cookies ’n Cream Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup low-fat fudge brownies or low-fat chocolate cookies, coarsely broken
• 1 cup TruMoo Chocolate milk
• 1 cup ice cubes

Preparation

1. Combine ingredients in a blender, mix until smooth and frothy, and serve.

Fuel Up Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups TruMoo Chocolate milk
• 1/2 cup baby kale
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1 tablespoon almond butter

Preparation

1. Combine ingredients in a blender, mix until smooth and frothy, and serve.

Banana PB&J Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1 cup TruMoo Chocolate milk
• 1 ripe banana, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons low-fat peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons strawberry or grape jelly

Preparation

1. Combine ingredients in a blender, mix until smooth and frothy, and serve.

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