Lean Green Vanilla Ice Cream (NO Ice Cream Maker Required)

Credit: Adeline Chan, C.N.P. (Hons), B.Sc. (Hons) Registered Nutritionist

Ingredients (use organic whenever possible):

  • 1/2 cup kale leaves (deveined, washed, and patted dry)
  • 2 frozen ripe or overripe bananas (frozen overnight)
  • 3 pitted medjool dates
  • 1 tbsp or so unsweetened plain almond milk (optional, use only to help get the blender going and adjust amount accordingly)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. In a blender, blend together all the ingredients except for the almond milk.  Add the almond milk in 1-tsp increments as needed to turn the mixture into a thick ice-cream-like consistency.
  2. If the consistency is too soft to scoop, just place mixture into the freezer for at least 30 minutes.

Than, scoop some out and enjoy!

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For those wondering about the health benefits of this tasty treat, here are some…

Banana

  • Supports cardiovascular health (contains potassium, which lowers blood pressure, and fibre, which helps prevent heart disease)
  • Provides an antacid effect for those suffering from heartburn or acid reflux
  • Improves eyesight
  • Increases calcium absorption to improve bone health
  • Can protect against kidney cancer

Kale

  • Is high in antioxidants and glucosinolates, both of which protect against cancer
  • Contains healthy omega-3 fats, which have an anti-inflammatory effect in the body
  • Lowers bad cholesterol

Medjool dates

  •  Is higher in B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium, copper, manganese, and magnesium than other date varieties

Stay cool and healthy this summer!