Better than a Chia Pet

Lately I’ve been honoring my addiction to chia pudding.

While not everyone is a fan, you may like to give it a try if you:

• like pudding
• don’t have an aversion to interesting food textures
• are trying to increase your intake of plant-based omega-3’s
• could use more protein and fiber in your diet
• would like a snack, dessert or breakfast food that is nutritious and fun

Chia seeds are a superfood with a multitude of health benefits.

As you may have guessed, Mr. Non-Compliant is not a fan.

Whatever.

I make it for me and have even been known to eat it right out of the big bowl, guilt-free.

If you’d like to know more about chia seeds, you can check out the article I wrote last year for Get Healthy magazine by clicking here.

You can find chia seeds at your local grocery. Be sure to check the expiration date. Store them in the fridge or freezer to keep them fresh if you buy in bulk or don’t use them often. They can go rancid when exposed to air, dampness, or heat.

Here’s a recipe for the pudding. Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will keep for up to 5 days. In my case, it doesn’t last that long. 

Overnight Chia Seed Pudding

½ cup chia seeds
1 ½ cups milk or milk alternative of your choice (almond, oat, coconut, etc.)

In a medium size bowl, combine chia seeds and milk. Mix well. Cover and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to eat, give it a good stir, breaking up any clumps. You can enjoy as is or add some other ingredients to jazz it up a bit. Once you’ve mixed in additional ingredients, portion out into serving bowls.

If you want to make enough for several days, use a large bowl to make a big batch, then portion it out into several small jars or bowls the next morning. You may want to add additional ingredients like fruit or nuts just before eating. This makes a delicious breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Add-in and Topping Options:

• Nuts and seeds
• Fruit (banana, berries, apple, your favorite)
• Maple syrup or honey
• Vanilla extract
• Cocoa
• Cinnamon
• Granola

Another Note on Avocados

 My friend Kris has this tip when choosing avocados: “I have found, incidentally, that if you select one with the little stem still firmly attached, it is usually superior to the ones where it has fallen or been pulled off . . .not foolproof . . .they are like a little mini lottery each and every time, aren’t they?”

She also enjoys her avocado with a cup of coffee.

Wishing you a delicious week.

Much love,
Health Coach Carol

“You are what you eat, so don’t be fast, cheap, easy or fake.”—Unknown