Orange Carob Smoothie

A rich and creamy smoothie with a chocolate-orange flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 heaping tablespoons carob powder*
• 1 ripe avocado
• 4 to 6 dates, soaked for 4 hours, drained
• 6 ice cubes

Directions:

1. Blend all the ingredients, except for the ice cubes, in a high powered blender on low speed then high for 1 minute or more. Lower the speed, add the ice cubes, and blend until creamy smooth.
2. Pour into a tall 16oz glass, garnish with an orange slice, add a straw, and serve.

Yield:
Makes 1 large serving.

*Unlike chocolate, carob is naturally sweet, low in fat, high in fiber, has calcium, and no caffeine. You can replace cocoa powder in recipes with carob powder, one-for-one. Most brands of carob powder are gluten-free. Yet, because there is a slight possibility of cross-contamination, those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity may want to check with the manufacturer of the product to be sure it’s made in a gluten-free facility.