Let's Talk about Mardi Gras.

Carnitas Snack Shack - San Diego {North Park}

The other day I was fighting a craving for a milkshake when I came up with this slightly healthier alternative.  It's just nutritious enough to be something more than a dessert,  but super creamy and rich with all the flavors of banana cream pie. It's amazing how much difference that one tablespoon of cream makes!  If you don't already keep frozen bananas on hand for smoothies or baking, just take ripe bananas and break them in thirds, and freeze in a ziploc bag.  If you're feeling extra indulgent, whip in a teaspoon of peanut butter too.  It will make the transition from the debauchery of the holidays to new year's resolutions that much easier!

Banana Cream Pie "Smoothie"

3 oz frozen banana (75 cals)

1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder (100 cals)

1 teaspoon granulated sugar  (10 cals)

1 Tablespoon heavy whipping cream (50 cals)

1/2 cup nonfat/skim milk (45 cals) (you could also approximate the skim milk/cream blend with a blend of whatever you have on hand - lowfat, half and half, etc. )

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 shortbread cookie or graham cracker (check package for cals). 

Fold a paper towel over the shortbread cookie or graham cracker and crush with the heel of your hand.  Use the paper to dump the crumbs into a small bowl.

Place the frozen banana, scoop of protein powder, sugar, whipping cream, vanilla extract and milk in a blender or cup for a hand blender.  Blend until smooth and creamy.  Add about 1 teaspoon of the crumbs and pulse lightly just to stir them in.  Pour the smoothie into a glass and sprinkle some crumbs on top.  Drink with a straw. 


makes 1 serving = 280 cals (plus crumbs.) 

(one serving is the amount pictured, divided into two glasses.)