I have lived in the Coachella Valley my whole life...not once had I ever been to the Shield's Date Garden! I probably never felt the need since I was not into dates at all, also going my whole life without trying a date(eeew!) But a few weeks ago on my way home after a long work week, I made an impulse turn into the Shield's parking lot and decided to check it out.
If you live in the area and have never been, it's kinda fun to walk around the little shop and they have a beautiful nursery and garden in the back. If you like date shakes you can get them freshly made, apparently they are famous for them! The real highlight of my visit, however, was that I ate a date! May seem very silly..I know..but I really had thought I decided I was never, ever going to try a date. Wanna guess what happened?! It was like I heard harps playing in the background and little hearts were floating over my head. Turns out I don't just like dates, it's safe to say I'm obsessed! With coconut covered dates to be exact. I'm just sayin'...if you have never experienced organic, shredded coconut covered dates...drop everything you are doing and run to the store to get some! They are the perfect solution when you need something sweet, and are a nutrient packed energy booster!
Yep, it's love. How horrible of me to go my whole life judging dates because they aren't the most attractive looking food..but I feel like I've been living next door to the love of my life and never knew it! Ok, enough about my love for dates.
Because they are so sweet and also provide so many health benefits, they are a great substitute for sugar. In the last week I have chopped coconut covered dates and added them to granola, oatmeal and used them as a topping to my coconut ice cream! Here is a quick, easy and super satisfying treat for when you are craving chocolate! (As I am about ready to blend mine right now!)
Date sweetened Chocolate Milk Shake
In a blender add:
8 ounces almond or coconut milk
1 banana
1 Tbsp cocoa powder
1 Tbsp almond butter
1 tsp vanilla extract, dash of cinnamon
1 or 2 coconut covered dates
a few ice cubes
Blend until smooth!
All you need is Love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt. -Charles Schulz
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