ACAI BOWLS

 There are many food trends out there including acai bowls, the new craze. The acai berry has been known for its many health benefits, but its strongest benefit is definitely its taste. Acai is a delicious tropical fruit and when it comes served as a bowl, it makes waking up a whole lot easier. An acai bowl is basically a really thick smoothie that's been topped with oatmeal, fruit or peanut butter, and then you wolf it down with a spoon. After eating a bowl, you will not only feel happily full, you will have satisfied a sweet craving and done something that was good for you. Win win!!! You can purchase frozen or powdered acai berries. Here’s how to make an acai bowl with or without the acai.

 1. In a blender, add: 1 frozen banana, 1 cup berries (blueberries, strawberries or frozen acai), 1 peach or 1/2 pear

1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa, and 1 cup  of milk of choice

2. Add extra fiber (shredded zucchini, carrots, kale, spinach, etc.)

3. IF NEEDED, add extra sweet (2 tsp of honey or pure maple syrup)

4. Blend well and pour into a bowl.

5. Add toppings one or more of the following:

FRUIT SLICES: Strawberries, banana, mango or golden kiwi

SEEDS: Chia, pumpkin, flax or sunflower seeds

NUTS: Walnuts, cashews, almond slices or peanut butter

OTHER: Shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, dried fruit

GRAINS: Oats, granola, other cereals, quinoa