Cha-cha-cha-CHIA! Yes, that’s what we think of when we say chia. Those funny terra cotta heads sprouting green hair… until now! Chia seeds are everywhere these days and sweeping the nation as an up-and-coming nutritional ingredient and super food.
Chock full of fiber and omega-3’s, these little seeds can be added to juices, baked into muffins or even toasted and sprinkled on your salad. Soaked in liquid they get a gel-like coating. Endurance athletes love them in beverages for their super hydrating power.
I have also used them plumped then blended in a low fat dressing – they work as a natural thickener so you can use less oil, and who doesn’t love that?
My current favorite is to make a breakfast chia pudding! Assemble the night before with chia seeds, gluten-free oats, coconut milk, and a touch of honey. Let it sit overnight in the refrigerator while the plumping begins. The next morning, you can top it with fresh fruits – yum!
I love this photo and the recipes from Wellness Mama – She has a great blog on Chia!
And there are a ton of cool chia dessert puddings recipes online too. So try something new and get your cha-cha-cha-chia on! –Kathy
