NICOLE GIMMILLAROE

I’ve just returned from sunny Palm Springs, where I spent a glorious week poolside in the middle of January!

Wherever I travel, one of the first things I seek out is local foods, so I quickly discovered that the Coachella Valley is considered the “Date Capitol of the World.” Originally imported from Morocco, date palms have been thriving in the Southern California desert since the 1800s.

For that reason, you can find date shakes for sale all around the Palm Springs area. Most are more of a dessert splurge, but my version is nutritionally sound. Packed with potassium and protein, this date shake is a great way to start your day.

Enjoy!

Ingredients:

5 Medjool dates, pitted

1 banana

1 tablespoon cashew nut butter

2 cups organic milk or nut milk

1/8 teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon vanilla

1 tablespoon chia seeds

Method:

1. Place all ingredients in a high-speed blender and process until smooth.

2. Increase or decrease number of dates to adjust shake to your sweetness liking.

3. Add extra milk, nut milk or water to reach desired consistency.

Editor's Note: other recipes you might enjoy include Cilantro & Pumpkin Seeds, Black Bean-Quinoa Sliders and Vegan Eggnog.