Years ago, the morning after a late night flight, I made this delicious, energizing organic cacao maca smoothie for breakfast.

Chia seeds and cashews make a rich and creamy drink, a perfect indulgence, pick me snack or breakfast treat.

Nutritious, vegan, gluten-free, non dairy smoothie is a personal favorite of mine.

Cacao gives you energy; rich in antioxidants, and dietary fiber, one of the highest dietary sources of magnesium, and high in iron and other minerals. It is raw and commonly used to make cacao butter, chocolate, cocoa products.

Chia Seeds are high in protein, fiber, and essential omega fats. They are an excellent thickener. And add a wonderful crunch as a topping for yogurt and smoothies.

Maca and Lucuma add more nutrients, too.

Maca (ma-kuh) root is dried as a powder/flour. You can add a tablespoon to everything from pastries, smoothies, to stews to combat stress and fatigue, boost stamina and libido. Best of all Maca has a pleasing earthy, nutty flavor. Loaded with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and healthy fats, a little bit goes a long way.

Lucuma is an alternative sweetener with a naturally sweet maple flavor, packed with anti-oxidants, minerals and vitamins: carotenes and Vitamin B 3. Good source of fiber, too. Try it in smoothies and pastries.

And I recommend you skip sugar and use other organic ingredients: vanilla, fruit, cinnamon, maple syrup or honey to sweeten your smoothies.

To protect the environment, please do not use plastic straws. 

(Disclaimer, at the time of the photo shoot, several years ago, my photographer preferred using plastic straws for the shoot even though I do not use them. And I recycled the straws after the shoot.)

Photos by Tracey Eller