Post Workout Snack: Creamy Vegan Oatmeal Smoothie

Next week, I begin my half marathon training. Crazy, right? Let's hope the weather decides to cooperate.

During training season, it's extremely important to make sure I'm getting the right kind of foods into my body to use for fuel, both pre- and post-run. I don't like to eat a whole lot before I go out for a run, especially if it's in the 4-8 mile range, but I always have a little something to hold me over; if it's an after work run, I usually opt for a few carrots with hummus, rice cake, or a handful of almonds, and for my long weekend runs, I have a small banana or apple about 30 minutes before I head out the door. I don't really think too much about it. However, an hour long run leaves a whole lot of time to dwell on what I can stuff my face with eat when I get home.

THIS. This smoothie. It's amazing. It's thick, naturally sweet, creamy, and ice cold - it's seriously the perfect thing to slurp down after a long run. I sometimes have difficulty eating a full meal within an hour after a run, and I've found smoothies are the perfect cure to helping my body start to re-fuel afterward until I'm comfortable enough to eat a meal.

This smoothie makes me run a little faster on the way home, knowing it's there waiting for me. At only 217 calories, this gem is as guilt-free and healthy as it gets. Plus, it's vegan!

Creamy Vegan Oatmeal Smoothie

Ingredients:

1 small banana, preferably frozen in chunks (if not frozen, add an ice cube or two)

1/2 Tbsp natural nut butter (almond and peanut are my favorites!)

1/2 C unsweetened vanilla almond milk

2 Tbsp old-fashioned rolled oats

1/2 Tbsp unsweetened coconut flakes 

1 tsp agave (optional - add if you think it needs to be a little sweeter)

Preparation:

• Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. 

Enjoy after a workout or as a great breakfast on-the-go!