As a Certified Health Coach and passionate baker, Maura Knowles (Mo) is on a mission to change the way we eat. Read her Vitacost blog and get weekly recipes and tips for making healthy meals, snacks and treats!
Birds are singing, the sun is shining—oh wait. That’s not the scene outside your window, just yet. If cool winds are still whipping in your corner of the world, cozy up to a cup of Sippy Chippy Cocoa, made with almond milk, cacao nibs, coconut oil, vanilla and a pinch of spicy chipotle powder (to chase away unseasonal shivers, of course!).
Pizza doesn’t have to be off limits just because you’ve gone gluten free. Make your own crisp, chewy crust with good-for-you ingredients such as teff (the world’s smallest gluten-free grain!), hemp seeds and a homemade flax “egg.” Top with your favorite fresh veggies, herbs and vegan cheese for a specialty pie with pizazz!
Bought a bag of chia seeds, but not sure how to use them? These protein-packed gems are great sprinkled on salads, cereals and other common foods—but did you know you can bake with them? Stir them into smoothies? Or even add them to pudding? Try this simple recipe and see for yourself!
Saturday mornings wouldn’t be the same without pancakes! This weekend, skip the super-sweet syrup and serve these crispy, rich Coconut Corn Cakes with a side of your favorite nut butter. No milk or eggs are needed, and a scoop of protein powder added to the batter makes a delicious and healthy breakfast treat.
Traditional pate is made from meat, but this vegan version combines rich walnuts and hearty white beans for a similar texture and unique flavor! Serve chilled as an appetizer with fresh-cut veggies or gluten free crackers, or keep some in your refrigerator for a quick and tasty sandwich spread.
Almond butter is tempting on toast or crackers, but don’t stop at spreading when it comes to splurging on this creamy, nutty treat. Scoop some into your blender along with a can of pumpkin, a splash of coconut milk and a couple of spices for a quick, tasty pudding that doubles as dessert or a healthy snack.
Move over, hot cocoa. This belly-warming winter drink is just as easy to make but brings a touch of exotic flavor to your mug. Simmer together almond milk, a swirl of coconut oil and fragrant spices such as nutmeg, ginger and turmeric for a healthy hot beverage that comforts as it chases away chills.
