Five Delicious Ways to Enjoy the Benefits of Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are one of the so-called “super-foods,” due to their incredible nutritional composition.
They have a light nutty flavor that goes well with many other ingredients, making it easy to include them in meal plans.
In addition, they stand out as an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids, soluble and insoluble fiber, protein, and many other beneficial nutrients.
Chia seeds are very popular now not only because they can help with healthy weight loss, but also because it has been proven that they can keep your heart and many other bodily systems healthy.
That’s why we decided to share five delicious ways to include them more regularly in your diet so you can reap their benefits.
1. Yogurt with chia seeds
Mixing these seeds with yogurt is a quick and complete alternative for a healthy breakfast.
This breakfast contains protein, probiotics, and other essential nutrients that can help keep your body full of energy.
Another option is to add some fruit to give it a sweeter taste and an extra dose of antioxidants.
Ingredients
- 1 Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon of chia seeds (14 g)
- Fruit to taste (we suggest bananas, kiwi, or strawberries)
How to make it
- Scoop the Greek yogurt in a glass and add the chopped fruit.
- Sprinkle the chia seeds on top and enjoy.
See also: How to Make Chia Seed Gel
2. Chia seed pancakes
Chia seed pancakes are a good alternative to the commercial options that tend to be high in calories and artificial ingredients.
This natural recipe may help ease hunger pangs and gives you an energy boost.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of wheat flour (400 g)
- 1 tablespoon of chia seeds (14 g)
- 1/2 cup of water (100 ml)
- Salt (to taste)
- 3 tablespoons of minced dried fruit (20 g)
- Olive oil (if necessary)
How to make it
- Put all the ingredients in a bowl, except the olive oil.
- Mix until a thick dough is formed and cover with a cloth for 30 minutes.
- After the 30 minutes, take small portions of the dough and form the cakes.
- Add the olive oil to a pan and cook on both sides on medium heat.
3. Chia seed jam
These seeds are so versatile they can even be used in recipes for homemade jams. They give jams a unique flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of chia seeds (28 g)
- 1/2 cup of cherry juice (you can also use other fruit juices) (125 ml)
- Honey or another sweetener (to taste)
How to make it
- Put the two tablespoons of chia seeds in the juice and chill in the refrigerator for an hour or two.
- After chilling, the consistency will be thick and all you have to do is add your preferred sweetener.
4. Chia seed and papaya smoothie
This delicious smoothie has digestive, anti-inflammatory, and energetic properties.
Drink it to help fight constipation, abdominal bloating, and those energy slumps that can keep you from getting things done.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups of almond milk (375 ml)
- 2 slices of ripe papaya
- 1 tablespoon of chia seeds (14 g)
How to make it
- Blend the almond milk and papaya slices in a blender.
- Once well-mixed, serve and sprinkle the chia seeds on top.
- Let sit for 30 minutes and enjoy.
We recommend reading: Cholesterol-Friendly Rice with Vegetables and Chia Seeds
5. Ice cream with chia seeds
Ice cream may contain a significant amount of calories and fat, but with chia seeds, it can be a healthy way to treat yourself.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of chia seeds (28 g)
- 1/2 cup of ice cream (any flavor) (107 g)
- 1/3 cup of chopped fruit (50 g)
- 1 tablespoon of minced dried fruit (7 g) (optional)
How to make it
- Scoop a little ice cream into a cup and cover with the fruit and seeds.
- Scoop the rest of the ice cream into the cup and garnish with more seeds and the dried fruit.
Buy chia seeds in natural food stores or supermarkets and enjoy them in these delicious recipes! You can also add them to salads, soups, pieces of bread, and much more.