Last week I kicked off a month-long series with
Replay Recycled, my favorite eco-friendly toddler dishware company!
Each week, all throughout the month of March, I'll be sharing healthy foods with simple recipes for the whole family. You can find last week's posts below:
This week I'm kicking it off with one of my favorite superfoods - chia seeds!
Chia is the ancient Mayan word for strength, which is exactly why these tiny black seeds {which come from the plant Salvia Hispanica} were so highly praised. Despite their ancient history as a dietary staple, only recently did chia seeds become recognized as a modern day superfood.
Don't be fooled by their tiny size ... these little seeds pack a powerful nutritional punch; they are loaded with fiber, protein, omega 3 fatty acids, calcium, magnesium and phosphorous. They also contain zinc, vitamin B1, vitamin B3, and potassium. On top of all that, they are loaded with antioxidants, high in many important bone nutrients and super easy to incorporate into your own - and your child's - diet.
Chia seeds add texture and flavor -- in addition to all the nutrients they pack -- to everyday snacks and meals that your kids will love!
CHIA SEEDS YOGURT PARFAIT
{I have always loved yogurt parfaits and as soon as I started making them for Olivia, I found she did too. They are versatile and super simple; you can add in any of your favorite ingredients – fruit that is fresh and in season, granola or nuts, and top it all with power packed chia seeds!}
what you'll need:
+ your child’s favorite yogurt
+ chia seeds
+ fruit of choice {whatever is in season}
+ granola of choice
what you'll do:
+ simply spoon yogurt into dish or plate, top with chia seeds, granola and fruit!
ALMOND BUTTER CHIA SEED TOAST
{Almond butter is a great peanut butter alternative if your child has a peanut allergy or if you want to switch up your breakfast toast. Adding chia seeds on top creates a nice crunch and texture for your child and this makes a quick and easy breakfast or the perfect afternoon snack}
what you'll need:
+ bread of choice, toasted
+ almond butter {or cashew butter / peanut butter / sunbutter / etc.}
+ chia seeds
what you'll do:
+ spread nut butter of choice onto toast evenly
+ top with chia seeds
+ cut into easy-to-hold strips or bite sized pieces depending on your child’s age
CHIA BANANA BITES
{Babies and toddlers love the creamy texture of bananas and it couldn’t be easier to incorporate chia seeds with this recipe!}
what you'll need:
+ ripe banana, peeled
+ chia seeds
what you'll do:
+ cut your banana into rounds or bite sized pieces depending on your child’s age
+ sprinkle chia seeds onto one side and gently press them in
+ flip the banana bites over and repeat / serve immediately
Check back on Wednesday for the next post featuring foods that pack a 'Protein Punch' without meat!
Hope your week is off to a great start!
~ Megan
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