As the first month of the New Year comes to a close, are you feeling challenged when it comes to finding delicious healthier alternatives for your new eating plan? It’s time to introduce one of my favorite quick easy snacks (or breakfast option) the Chia Pudding!
Chia seeds are not just for toy pets! It’s hard to believe that the popular 1980’s fuzzy little “Chia Pet” would turn out to hold wonderful nutrients now popular in the 21st century. These seeds are actually a great way to get part of your daily dose of fiber, protein, calcium, Omega 3 fatty acids, and many more nutrients. Adding 2 tablespoons to a morning smoothie is one of my favorite ways to enjoy them, and unlike flax seeds, they are digestible in their original state.
Add raspberries (see recipe below), as if the Chia Seeds didn’t have enough health benefits, and you have an extra boost of anti-oxidants, fiber, plus vitamin C and many other nutrients. The latest preliminary research is showing promise of raspberries even aiding in weight management along with its phytonutrients that have a known ability to increase metabolism in fat cells. So how can they be added easily into your diet?
These little wonder seeds added to a smoothie (just two tablespoons) can add nutrients, fiber, and help thicken the smoothie. Another way to enjoy them is in this quick, delicious “no cook” dairy free pudding that tastes like tapioca! Adding raw coconut and seasonal berries make it that much more delicious. This is another snack or dessert you’ll feel good about giving your children or enjoying yourself.
Here is wonderful Raspberry recipe that takes only 10 minutes to create, ready to eat after a few hours of refrigeration.
Raspberry Coconut Chia Pudding
Serves: 4 (1/2 cup servings)
Ingredients
2 cups Coconut Milk (canned, organic, light coconut milk)
1 cup raspberries (organic preferred)
1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Powder
1 TBS Pure Maple Syrup or Honey
¼ cup shredded coconut (optional)
½ cup Organic Chia Seeds
** Optional Garnish with Raspberries and Spearmint Leaves
Directions
- Blend all ingredients, except the Chia Seeds, in a blender until blended.
- Add Chia Seeds, stir well, and pour into mason jars (for easy transport to work or school) or in your favorite dessert dish for puddings.
- Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight or at least 3 hours.
- Serve in jars, with optional topped with raspberries and coconut
Sources:
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=39
http://berryhealth.fst.oregonstate.edu/health_healing/fact_sheets/red_raspberry_facts.htm
