Power-up smoothie (dairy-free)

I have long been a believer in the idea that breakfast is a very important meal each day.  Rather than reaching for highly processed convenience foods that don't offer much in the way of nutrition or staying power, I make a point of choosing wholesome, natural foods for breakfast, ones that pack a lot of punch in the form of fibre, protein, vitamins, and minerals.  I find smoothies a wonderful way to start the day:  they're quick and simple to make, fun to experiment with, and they offer a great way to consume a number of healthy foods in one go.

Kale is considered to be a powerfully nutritious vegetable and one that many people seem to be trying to eat more of these days, but I'm willing to bet it's not something most of us would want to reach for at breakfast time.  Try adding kale to a smoothie that also has frozen berries and bananas, though, and I think you'll find that it's a delicious way to get your greens in the morning!

Power-up Smoothie (with kale, cherries, blackberries, blueberries, bananas, and some other good stuff!)

a handful of kale leaves, washed and torn
1/2 cup President's Choice Organics frozen Power Fruit Blend
half of a frozen banana
1 cup very cold water
1 tbsp natural almond butter
1 tbsp chia seeds

Place all ingredients in a blender or Magic Bullet and process on high speed until smooth.  Pour into a glass and enjoy.

This smoothie may not be the prettiest drink to look at in the morning, but neither is coffee, if you think about it.  ;)  The naturally sweet taste may pleasantly surprise you (and, in case you're a reluctant kale consumer, I promise you won't notice the kale at all!).  What other powerful foods do you like to put in your smoothies?  I'm always looking for new healthy ideas and would love to hear yours!