“Hot town, summer in the city, back of my neck getting dirty and gritty…” (“Summer in the City” from The Lovin’ Spoonful, in case you weren’t keeping up with me there).  Or, “Sunny days. Oh, sunny, sunny, sunny days…” (“Sunny Days” from Lighthouse – I didn’t even know this was a Canadian group until just now!).  That just about sums up life in Ulsan, South Korea these days.  So, with the mercury rising, I’m looking for great ways to stay cool and hydrated.  Ice cream comes to mind, as do slurpees, slushies and sno-cones.  But what about something with a little more oomph and a little less refined sugar (not to mention artificial colours and flavours)?  With more than 35g of protein and none of the junk, this Strawberry-Coconut Chia Protein Smoothie will power you up AND cool you down.  It looks, smells, tastes and even FEELS like a strawberry milkshake – your tastebuds will be none the wiser.  Bonus?  The sound of your blender will drown out my summer ditties!

So, have you heard about chia seeds?  Apparently this is another one of those super-foods of the ancient civilizations (the Mayans and Aztecs in this case.  Although it begs the question – if these civilizations were so great, why aren’t they still around?…Things that make you go hmmm).  At any rate, chia seeds are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids (confused about the differences between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids?  Me too!  Good news – we’re not the only ones.  Learn all about it here).  Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that can help to protect you against heart disease and are also touted for their brain benefits.  Chia seeds are also incredibly high in fiber.  One of the coolest things about them is the way they “plump up” in liquid and create a gel-type substance.  This makes them great for adding texture to smoothies and puddings AND they have binding properties that allow them to replace eggs in baked goods.  Vegans, rejoice!

This recipe, while not vegan, should make us ALL rejoice.  It’s thick, creamy and cool – really closer to a milkshake than a smoothie.  Straws, beware.  Be prepared to use a spoon!

*Please note that I am currently NOT sponsored by or affiliated with any particular brand, company or product. Any ideas, comments or opinions are my own, as mentioned in my Product Review page.  However, if you choose to purchase new-to-you products I recommend using the link(s) I provide, I can earn a small credit.  More information on that is available here.

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