Photo: ©2011 Natalie Lewis

Happy Valentines Day!

Grilled Banana and Dark Chocolate S’mores

BY MAGAZINE COLUMNIST NATALIE LEWIS

There used to be a time when I felt I needed an excuse to eat chocolate. As if I had to plead my case to the sweet tooth gods every time I broke off a silky smooth chunk of rich and creamy heaven. “Come on, it’s Valentine’s Day, I deserve a chocolate bar!” or “It’s not actually me. I promise. My rational thinking has been overtaken until after the next 28 days.”

But since I’ve learned all of the amazing health benefits dark chocolate has to offer, We all know chocolate enhances the production of endorphins leaving us in a state of pure well-being and dark chocolate, specifically, contains serotonin – the happy hormone.

Dark chocolate is also a powerful antioxidant promoting heart health, blood circulation and immunity boosting. And if that’s not enough to convince you, the rich and powerful indulgence has been proven to reduce bad cholesterol and lower blood pressure levels.

Dark chocolate and banana s’mores it is! Don’t have to tell me twice!

Grilled Banana and Dark Chocolate S’mores

(makes 4)

4 graham crackers
1 dark chocolate bar
1 banana

Heat a grill pan to medium-high heat and coat with cooking spray.

Slice bananas in thick slices and grill quickly for about 45 seconds on each side.

Immediately place hot banana slices on chocolate, in between two graham cracker halves.

Enjoy more of Natalie’s delicious recipes, gorgeous photographs and engaging writing at the Daily Crave. And if you’re lucky enough to live in Northern New Jersey and need catering, personal chef services or group cooking lessons, look no further than Chef Natalie Lewis.

© 2011, The Magazine of Yoga, LLC.