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Cocoa, Nut & Berries Energy Bites

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Do you need extra energy in the morning? In this case, these energy balls give you energy and contain all the necessary nutrients you need during the day! Prepare them the day before, and you won’t have to worry about breakfast.

All the ingredients in these balls combine in a perfect harmony of flavors. They contain healthy ingredients such as pea protein, goji berries, chia seeds, and raw cocoa. You can enjoy these energy bites without baking at any time of the day, and you can replenish your energy stocks, for example, before a workout or during a tiring hiking session.

These delicious energy bites are so tasty, and the best part is that they don’t contain any added sugar. The sweet taste comes from the dates and goji berries.

Facts about the nutrients 

Medjool dates are the queens of dates, also called “paradise fruits,” they are tasty, meaty, creamy. They make you think of the taste of caramel while melting in your mouth and bring a series of benefits to the body. Dates are a natural source of vitamins (A, B, C, K), rich in antioxidants and proteins, fiber, and minerals such as iron, magnesium, calcium, sulfur, phosphorus, and potassium. They are considered the healthiest fruits. With each swallow, they improve your mood and give you a state of mental and physical comfort.

Cocoa is at the forefront of superfoods. It contains about 300 chemically identified substances, making it one of the most complex foods in the world. Cocoa contains many minerals (iron, magnesium, copper, chromium, zinc, manganese), vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants!

In the composition of goji berries, many bioactive compounds are distinguished by their antioxidant effect. Among essential nutrients are carbohydrates in the proportion of 46%, dietary fiber in the ratio of 16%, protein in the proportion of 13%, and fat in only 1.5%. In addition, goji berries are an essential source of micronutrients, such as minerals and vitamins (iron, calcium, sodium, vitamins A and C). Phenolic compounds, polysaccharides, and carotenoids are components of these fruits that bring the most significant benefits to the body.

Cocoa, Nut & Berries Energy Bites

Necessary equipment:

  • a medium mixing bowl
  • a food processor
  • an ice cream scoop

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup of Medjool dates, pitted
  • 1/2 cup of cashews
  • 1/2 cup of pea protein
  • 2 tablespoons of chia seeds
  • 1/4 cup of cocoa nibs
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • a pinch of sea salt
  • 1/4 cup of goji berries, soaked in water for at least 10 minutes
  • 2 tablespoons coconut flakes

Instructions:

  1. Put the dates, cashews, pea protein, chia seeds, cocoa nibs, vanilla extract, and sea salt in a food processor.
  2. Add in the soaked goji berries together with the water they soaked in.
  3. Pulse until all the ingredients are well combined, and the texture looks like a dough.
  4. Use an ice cream scoop and form equal-sized energy balls. For a more accessible roll, pour some water on your hands and smooth them out.
  5. Roll the balls in coconut flakes.
  6. Place them into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Gingerbread Muffins

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Raise your and if you like gingerbread! Well, if you like gingerbread flavors, then you will like these muffins. Not for nothing are called gingerbread muffins.

During Christmas, we want to indulge in all kinds of goodies. I have always loved gingerbread for its enticing taste and smell, especially because I associate it with the winter holidays, my grandmother’s house, and childhood memories.

Since I wanted to have a gluten-free recipe, I’ve replaced the regular flour with garbanzo bean flour, also known as chickpea flour. It is a good source of protein, and it makes the muffins fluffy and soft. Cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ground ginger are a natural bouquet of flavors that can not be missing from a holiday-specific holiday!

These muffins are without white flour and, of course, without sugar. And they are ready in a very short time, precisely 30 minutes. They are spectacular, both in taste and appearance! Enjoy them without worrying about the extra pounds.

You can wrap them beautifully and become a perfect edible gift for family members, office colleagues, or school colleagues. You can also omit the cream if you prefer. As an alternative, you can bake the composition in the form of a cake and then decorate it with cream cheese.

If you want to delight your family with a unique dessert, I suggest preparing this muffin recipe. They will be very excited!

Gingerbread Muffins

Necessary equipment:

  • a muffin tin
  • a small dish, like a ramekin
  • a large mixing bowl
  • a whisk
  • a medium mixing bowl
  • a hand mixer
  • a cooling rack

Ingredients:

18 muffins

  • 2 flax eggs
  • 1 cup of garbanzo bean flour
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons of cinnamon powder
  • 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup of organic maple syrup
  • 2 flax eggs
  • 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
  • coconut cooking spray oil

glaze:

  • 1 tablespoon of vegan butter or cream cheese
  • 1 tablespoon of unsweetened almond or coconut milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Prepare the muffin tin and grease them with coconut cooking oil spray.
  3. Make flax eggs by combining 2 tablespoons of ground flax with 6 tablespoons of filtered water in a small bowl. Set them aside.
  4. Combine garbanzo bean flour with baking soda and spice in a large mixing bowl.
  5. Combine maple syrup, eggs, coconut oil in a medium mixing bowl and mix using a hand mixer. The mixture should get creamy and smooth.
  6. Carefully incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ones and mix until well combined.
  7. Pour about 1/3 of a cup of batter into the prepared muffin tin.
  8. Bake for about 15 minutes. Check if the muffins are cooked using the toothpick method. If it is clean when removing the toothpick, it means that the delicacy has baked; if the toothpick shows traces of dough, then it means that the cake must remain in the oven.
  9. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool for about 10 minutes.
  10. Carefully take the muffins out of the tin.
  11. In a medium bowl, combine vegan butter/cream cheese, almond milk, and cinnamon powder. Mix well until combined. Transfer the cream into the fridge and keep it cold until the cupcakes cool completely.
  12. Once the muffins are thoroughly cooled, drizzle the muffins with the glaze.

Buckwheat Pumpkin Pancakes

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I have not always been a fan of pumpkin desserts, but these pancakes are completely different, the flavors used and the pumpkin is perfectly balanced in this recipe. They are super soft and fragrant, moist inside, and are ideal for a wonderful start to the day, along with a cup of warm coffee or hot cocoa. I will admit that as soon as I prepared them, I ate two. I liked them so much that it was hard to stop at two.

Buckwheat Pumpkin Pancakes

The classic recipe for buckwheat flour pancakes is an extremely simple and accessible one. These pancakes will be fluffy, delicate, and quite tender. They will be silky, neither sweet nor salty, associated with peanut butter, fruits, or crunchy cocoa nibs. They have a subtle buckwheat taste, which disappears when you combine them with honey and fruits.

I wanted to give them a different flavor, and I’ve decided to add some almond extract for a pleasant nutty flavor.

Buckwheat Health Benefits

Unlike wheat, it is gluten-free and helps improve cardiovascular circulation by regulating blood pressure. With a rich content of flavonoids and magnesium, buckwheat comes from organic, non-genetically modified crops.

A rich source of fiber, buckwheat has an essential role in maintaining the digestive system. With a high energy value, it is very filling. It also contains antioxidants beneficial to the body, for example, vitamin E, selenium, phytic acid, and phenolic acid. Among the properties of this plant is the significant amount of flavonoids in the composition. These are phytonutrients that have the role of protecting against disease by extending the action of antioxidants and vitamin C.

A friendly piece of advice: I strongly recommend you make a double batch of pancakes and keep them in the freezer. You’ll have a healthy breakfast option for the busy mornings when you don’t have time to prepare something from scratch.

Nutritional Information (toppings are not included):

  • Serving size: 1 pancake
  • Servings: 14
  • Calories: 100
  • Carbohydrate: 16 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Total Fat: 2 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Sodium: 110 mg
  • Potassium: 200 mg

Buckwheat Pumpkin Pancakes

Necessary equipment:

  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 medium mixing bowl
  • a medium skillet

Ingredients:

10 pancakes

  • 1 1/2 cup (200 grams) of buckwheat flour
  • 1 1/3 cup (110 grams) of rolled oats (preferably gluten-free)
  • 3 teaspoons of baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 teaspoon of cinnamon powder
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda
  • 2 cups of almond milk (unsweetened)
  • 2/3 cup of pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon of pure almond extract
  • coconut cooking spray for cooking
  • Topping ideas: natural peanut butter, almond butter, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, banana slices, apple slices, maple syrup, raw honey, cocoa nibs, shredded coconut.

Instructions:

  1. Combine the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl: buckwheat flour, oats, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon powder, and baking soda.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the almond milk, pumpkin puree, and almond extract.
  3. Carefully pour the wet ingredients over the dry ones. Then whisk gently to combine thoroughly but without overmixing.
  4. Spray a skillet with coconut cooking spray and pour about 1/3 of a cup of batter on it.
  5. When you see bubbles forming, you can flip the pancake and cook for one more minute.
  6. Repeat the procedure until you run out of batter.
  7. Serve warm and if desired, add your desired toppings! My favorite topping is a teaspoon of raw honey with strawberries, delicious!

The Truth about Low Carb Diets

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Carbohydrates are important macronutrients and are one of the most important sources of energy in the body. Some weight loss programs discourage carbohydrate intake, but the key to success is finding the right carbs – without completely avoiding them. Consumption of complex carbohydrates is better than consumption of simple carbohydrates. However, product labels do not mention the type of carbohydrates used. It is important to understand how these foods are classified and how they work once they reach the body in order to choose the right carbohydrates.

What are carbohydrates good for?
Even if it is mistakenly considered that all carbohydrates should be completely eliminated from the diet, it is important to emphasize that not all-cause fattening. Most have the role of giving energy to the body to support physical activity and the proper functioning of the organs. They are essential elements of a healthy diet. Taking into account the metabolism of each individual, 65% of carbohydrates can be consumed from the total amount of food.

Many people resort to carbohydrate-free diets to lose weight. Those who have decided to follow a low-carb diet start with low-carb foods or follow similar examples from family members or friends.

Or some decide to try a carb-free diet because celebrities do. Most people on low-carb diets lose weight fast, but unfortunately, this is not permanent.
This is mainly due to the extreme nature of low-carb diets. People are not able to stick to a program and cannot cope with the effects of deprivation on the body. Therefore, before adopting carbohydrate-free diets, check the reasons why you should think twice before you start:

1. Slow down the Concentration Process

Adequate carbohydrate intake is linked to improving the functionality of your brain, helping you to think more clearly. So, basically, cutting out carbs can slow down your thinking and can even make your mind feel blurred. This is a major reason to think twice before starting low-carb diets.

2. Decreases Immunity

Carbohydrates are your body’s immediate source of energy, so eliminating this is like wiping away any traces of your footsteps. You will reduce your Immunity, and you will feel that you will collapse at any moment. Choose complex, high-fiber carbohydrates to boost your Immunity, lose weight, and feel great!

3. Behavioral Changes

You are hungry, you are unhappy, and nothing seems to suit you. Following a carbohydrate-free diet doesn’t work because you don’t feel 100% okay. One minute you are in a good mood, the next minute, you are grumpy. So follow a diet that contains an adequate amount of complex carbohydrates daily!
4. It confuses your body

By cutting or reducing carbohydrates, you will confuse your body which often leads to stress. When the body is stressed, we can gain weight, get sick or even produce metabolic dysfunctions. There is more stress in the body with these low-carb diets. You will most likely cause long-term problems with your metabolic rate!

5. May Lead to Weight Gain

Reducing carbs will cause a deficit of energy and also calories, and with this method, you can notice a rapid weight loss. And, although this seems like something to enjoy since you reintroduce carbohydrates into your diet, the pounds often come back. So, consume complex carbohydrates in moderation and keep your weight gain under control!

6. You Can Have Mood Changes

Because carbohydrates provide immediate energy, eliminating this source can cause a major drop in your mood. You may feel depressed, lose interest in your favorite things. Avoid this and do not follow carbohydrate-free diets.

7. Sleep Can Become Restless

Going to bed on an empty stomach is like trying to put a baby to sleep at night after a 4-hour nap. It will not work. You will be restless and stressed, and you will not be able to fall asleep. So stop cutting carbs. In fact, don’t even think about it! Your body needs this source of energy! Moderate eating is the key.

I really like the following ideas which define the “healthy body weight” via The Science of Nutrition:

  • Maintaining your weight without constant dieting. So without depriving yourself of anything and then binging on other foods.
  • Suitable for your age and physical development. Trying to get back to the weight that you had in high school is not a healthy mindset to have. After all, you are a different person now.
  • Corresponding with normal blood values. Blood values should be regularly checked with blood tests. Check your cholesterol, blood sugar, triglycerides, etc. to make sure they are all in normal ranges.
  • Allowing regular physical activity routine. You should be active for at least 30 minutes each day. If you feel too tired, this might mean you probably aren’t getting enough carbs.

Consider the above ideas as being the only guidelines you want to follow regarding your dietary habits.

If you have trouble with finding out what kind of approach works for you, a good thing would be to seek help from a registered dietitian. There is nothing shameful about that and you don’t need to have an eating disorder to ask for help. A professional can help you make sure you feel healthy without the need for depriving yourself of anything.

Red White Blue Smoothie Popsicles

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If you ask me what comes to my mind when I think of the 4th of July, I would immediately think of colorful smoothie popsicles! There is a funny story behind these smoothie popsicles that I want to share. I’ve prepared a smoothie during a hot summer day because I wanted to enjoy a cold drink to help me fight against the heat. Since I did not have any ice cubes, I’ve decided to keep the smoothie for a few minutes in the freezer, but somehow I got busy with some other things and forgot about the smoothie. Some hours later, when I did realize what I had done and after seeing the frozen smoothie, a brilliant idea came into my mind!

The vibrant blue and red colors will be the main’s party’s attraction. On top of that, a refreshing popsicle sounds like a good idea after a hot day with barbecues in the yard.
All you need is just some frozen fruits and yogurt. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut yogurt instead of the regular one.

Popsicles or homemade ice cream on a stick: made from frozen fruits with yogurt, this refreshing summer dessert is a dream for children and adults.

Ice cream on a stick is a dessert that many of us grew up with. It is different from classic ice cream or gelato – both in presentation and texture. If gelato is a creamy, creamy dessert, the popsicles have a slightly lighter texture. The fruit one is reminiscent of a refreshing smoothie, especially if it is prepared at home, where you can control the quantity and quality of the ingredients in the composition.

To make homemade popsicles, you need special molds. You can find them at the supermarket, but also on the internet. Other than that, all you need is fruit and yogurt. I like strawberries and blackberries, but you can also use other fruits, depending on your preference. I did not add any sweetener because, for me, the natural sugar from fruits is enough. But if it is not sweet enough for you, you can add a tablespoon of raw honey or maple syrup.

The “father” of popsicle ice cream is Francis William “Frank” Epperson, from San Francisco, California. He patented the concept of “ice cream on a stick” in 1923. Epperson said he created the first ice cream on a stick in 1905 when he was 11 years old. He allegedly made it by mistake when he left a mixture of water and lemonade powder on the porch on a cold night.

That being said, here is a sensational recipe for strawberry and blackberry popsicles. I made eight pieces, and they all ate (faster than I like to admit). It’s so quick and straightforward that it would be a shame not to try next weekend. I assure you that the whole family will love it and ask for it regularly.

Red White Blue Smoothie Popsicles

Necessary equipment:

  • a food processor
  • popsicle molds
  • wooden popsicle handle

Ingredients:

For 8 colorful popsicles (about 3.5 ounces each)

  • 8 ounces of plain Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt
  • 1 large frozen banana, sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup of frozen strawberries
  • 1/2 cup of frozen blackberries

Instructions:

  1. Start by placing half of the Greek yogurt, frozen banana, and vanilla extract in the food processor. Pulse until you get a smooth mixture.
  2. Pour the mixture into prepared popsicle molds, filling only half of them.
  3. Put half of the blackberries on top of the yogurt and banana mixture.
  4. Transfer the popsicle molds to the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, clean the food processor.
  6. Add the frozen strawberries and remaining yogurt to the blender and pulse until you get a smooth mixture.
  7. Carefully remove the popsicle molds from the freezer and fill them with strawberries and yogurt mixture.
  8. Use wooden sticks to place them into each mold.
  9. Transfer the molds back to the freezer and let them chill for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Simple, isn’t it?

Yummy!

Roasted Almonds with Cocoa and Cinnamon

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Rich in minerals, protein, and good fats, almonds should be part of everyone’s diet, at least from time to time. They have a delicate taste and a good texture for nibbling, which is why I never miss the house.

Initially, I used to eat them raw (I still do it whenever I come across the bag of almonds), but more recently, I put them in the oven with different spices, obtaining a healthy, crunchy, delicious snack.

Give up buying all kinds of fried or baked nuts from stores packed with added sugar or a lot of salt. For a healthy and delicious snack, which you can take in your lunch package, you can get some raw almonds and prepare yourself in the oven. Ripe almonds intensify their flavor and are much tastier than raw ones. Here’s how easy you can make them.

Nutrients in this recipe

Almonds – the nutrients in almonds play an essential role in maintaining the health of the cardiovascular system. For example, magnesium content improves blood circulation, a necessary process, especially in people with hypertension. They contain a high level of monounsaturated fats, good for heart health, and vitamin E, an antioxidant that the body uses to fight inflammation in the arteries and beyond. Thus, there is a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Cocoa – due to its composition rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and Omega 6 fatty acids, cocoa is a delicious element, highly beneficial for health. It fights against fatigue, improves mood, and fights against premature aging of the body.

Cocoa flavonoids can slow the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in the intestine, improve insulin secretion, reduce inflammation, and stimulate blood sugar absorption. Cocoa also has positive effects on our mood and symptoms of depression by reducing stress levels. It also has some anti-diabetic effects.

Somewhat paradoxically, the intake of cocoa, even in the form of chocolate (45 g per day), helps control weight by regulating energy consumption, reducing appetite and inflammation, and increasing fat oxidation.

Ceylon Cinnamon – antioxidants protect the body from the oxidative effects of free radicals, and cinnamon is rich in powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols. In a study that compared the antioxidant activity of 26 spices, cinnamon ranked first, surpassing even “superfoods” such as garlic and oregano.

However, this miracle spice is not only a fine golden-brown powder that spices our moments of relaxation. It is also the one that makes any snack an archive of dreams and memories. I don’t think I’m wrong in saying that cinnamon, like the smell of orange or the aroma of the coffee, goes beyond the pleasure of taste to a state, an emotion.

Roasted Nuts with Cocoa and Cinnamon 

Necessary equipment:

  • a baking sheet
  • baking paper
  • a medium bowl
  • a silicone spatula

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of raw and unsalted almonds
  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
  • 2 teaspoons of Ceylon cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with baking paper.
  2. Place the almonds in a medium bowl.
  3. Add in the cocoa powder and cinnamon, and stir gently to coat the almonds.
  4. Spread out the coated almonds onto the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for about 30 minutes. After 15 minutes, stir the nuts and continue baking for another 15 minutes.
  6. Remove almonds from the oven and let them cool down for at least 10 minutes.
  7. Enjoy! Now you have the perfect crunchy snack to enjoy while watching a good movie!

How to eat more legumes

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Are you looking for food that will satisfy your hunger, keep you full throughout the day and contribute to your health?

Legumes are an excellent source of quality protein, minerals, and fiber. These are some of the most nutritious foods. Among the benefits of legumes is the valuable contribution they make to a healthy diet.

Legumes are particularly rich in healthy fiber, such as resistant starch and soluble fiber. Both types pass undigested through the stomach and small intestine until they reach the colon, feeding the beneficial intestinal bacteria.

Eating legumes as part of a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle may also help improve the level of cholesterol (read more about the benefits of legumes for heart health).

Due to their protein and fiber content, legumes help you feel full – and thus can reduce food intake and lead to long-term weight loss. Because legumes are high in fiber and easy to digest, they can help you feel fuller – a benefit to gaining and maintaining a healthy weight.

Legumes should not only be soaked for a few hours before cooking but also germinated or even cooked. No recipe with legumes can be raw except by preparation by germination; otherwise – only vegan.

Legumes (like cereals, nuts, and other grains) contain phytic acid, which prevents the absorption of minerals in the body and can cause indigestion. To avoid phytic acid, you should either not eat the guilty grains or do so in such a way as to get rid of the unbearable substance.

So, you can hydrate, germinate and even boil legumes to make them suitable for consumption, especially if you like them very much and want to include them as often as possible in your diet.

Here are some of the best legumes, which it is good to include in the menu as often as possible so that you can fully enjoy their benefits.

1. Chickpeas
Also known as garbanzo beans, chickpeas are an excellent source of fiber and protein. Several scientific studies have shown that it can help lose weight and reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer, especially when replacing red meat in the diet.

2. Lentils
Although it is a healthy food, few people choose to eat it constantly. Most of the time, we don’t appreciate lentils’ nutritional qualities, but it is good to know that it has many beneficial properties and essential nutrients. Lentils contain B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, potassium, and iron. In addition, lentils contain 25% protein, a good alternative for periods when you do not eat meat or follow a vegetarian diet.

3. Red kidney beans

Vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, folic acid, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, fiber, protein, are the treasures hidden in the little red bean beans! With each serving of delicious red beans, you add a plus to your “health”, with only 220 calories per cup of beans.

4. Peas

Peas have an impressive nutritional profile. They contain quite a few calories; at 170 grams consumed, we only absorb only 62 calories. About 70% of these calories come from carbohydrates. The rest of the calories come from protein and fat. In addition, peas contain many vitamins and minerals but also a significant amount of fiber.

Discover tricks to include more varied vegetables in your diet

If you’re not sure how to include them in your diet, here are some quick ideas:

  • Add lentils to vegetable soups and try lentil or other legume meatballs (lentil or chickpea patties).
  • Add legumes to stews or salads.
  • You can try baked chickpeas in the oven as an alternative to popcorn or other snacks.
  • You can use a mixture of legumes of all colors to get a more colorful dish
  • Hummus; this way, you will avoid different additives from the hummus that you can find on the store shelves.
  • Pea puree can be an excellent side dish.
  • You can add beans to lasagna or tacos to replace meat.

Whether or not you follow a diet based on plant products, it is worth making sure that legumes are a part of your meals. They are incredibly versatile, cheap, nutritious, and are an excellent meat substitute. From lentils and peas to beans, you have to find something you like.

If you are worried about excess gas and stomach problems, choose canned beans. Also, try some enzymes supplements and gradually add legumes to your diet to give your body time to get used.

Garbanzo Bean Cupcakes

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Today, I want to show that you can make delicious cupcakes in low-carb style and rich in fiber. The base is garbanzo bean flour (chickpea flour), so the cupcakes will be smooth and light.

Garbanzo Bean Cupcakes

These muffins are very easy to prepare and can be served for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snacks between meals. They can be a more attractive alternative to classical white flour muffins.

Prepared in the evening, they are a welcome breakfast in the mornings when you hurry and do not have time to spend too much time in the kitchen.

Wheat flour is replaced by chickpea flour, obtained by grinding dried chickpea grains. It contains all the nutrients in chickpeas, being particularly rich in protein and fiber. Why chickpea flour for this recipe? Because by combining with water, it can be used as a binder for dough, replacing eggs.

They can be enjoyed without regrets and customized to your liking by using different toppings and frostings. Below, you will also find a recipe for healthy white frosting that can be topped with fresh blueberries and strawberries to create a delicious red, white, and blue dessert.

Garbanzo Bean Cupcakes

Necessary equipment:

  • a cupcake tin
  • 3 medium mixing bowls
  • a large mixing bowl
  • a whisk
  • a hand mixer
  • a cooling rack
  • a rubber spatula

Ingredients:

12 servings

cupcakes:

  • 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
  • 3 ripe bananas
  • 2 flax eggs
  • 1 1/2 cup of garbanzo bean flour
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons of raw honey OR organic maple syrup
  • 1/3 cup of unsweetened applesauce
  • 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup of fresh blueberries
  • coconut cooking oil spray

frosting:

  • 1 stick of grass-fed butter OR vegan butter at room temperature
  • 2 cups powdered stevia
  • 1 tablespoon plant-based milk (oats, soy, almonds, coconut)
  • 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

toppings:

  • 1/3 cup of fresh blueberries
  • 1/3 cup of fresh strawberries
  • 4 tablespoons of flaked almonds or hemp seeds

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C).
  2. Melt the coconut oil and set it aside to cool.
  3. Add bananas to a medium bowl and use a fork to mash them.
  4. Prepare a cupcake tin by spraying it with cooking spray or light greasing with coconut oil or other fat.
  5. Prepare the flax eggs by combining 2 tablespoons of ground flax seeds with 5 tablespoons of filtered water in a small bowl. Whisk well to combine.
  6. Whisk the garbanzo bean flour with baking soda and sea salt in a medium mixing bowl.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flax eggs, mashed bananas, honey/maple syrup, applesauce, coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract.
  8. Carefully incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix only until combined.
  9. Slowly stir in the blueberries.
  10. Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake tin. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the center is set (check with a wooden toothpick).
  11. In the meantime, in a medium mixing bowl, beat the butter with stevia (add one cup at a time) using a hand mixer until thoroughly combined.
  12. Add in one tablespoon of milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture turns fluffy. Add another tablespoon of milk if necessary.
  13. Take the cupcakes out of the oven and leave them to cool down on the cooling rack for 10 minutes. After that, take cupcakes out of the tin and allow them to cool completely.
  14. Once cooled, cover each cupcake with the white frosting and top with blueberries and sliced strawberries. Sprinkle flaked almonds or hemp seeds on top.

Enjoy! For another great cupcake recipe, try my gluten-free lemon cupcakes.

Nutritious Topping Toasts

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Toast is a widespread option for the first meal of the day, but it is an excellent option for a quick snack, and with enough creativity, it can transform it into a healthy and nutritious lunch. It is a versatile food, easy to prepare, and quick to eat. But like any human being, I am convinced that you need variety in your choices. Here are some topping ideas for a delicious and nutritious toast.

PRE-WORKOUT TOAST

Peanut Butter and Fig Toast

Gently spread a tablespoon of peanut butter on the toast and top it with sliced fresh figs. For extra sweetness, you can drizzle a teaspoon of natural honey over the figs.

Peanut Butter with Banana & Cacao Toast

Give the classical peanut butter and banana toast a twist by drizzling cocoa powder on top! You can replace the cocoa powder with cocoa nibs for a crunchy version of the toast.

Avocado Toast with Pepper Flakes

If you want to have a slightly spicy avocado toast, you can also add some red pepper flakes. Adjust the quantity of pepper flakes according to your desire and taste.

Almond Butter Fruit Toast

Use slices of fresh fruits (try focusing on the seasonal fruits) and pair them with smooth and natural almond butter. You’ll end up having a satisfying and nutritious toast combo.

Hummus Toast

A warm slice of toast topped with Hummus on a warm toast is a simple, delicious, and nutritious option for a quick bite. You’ll get a complete meal that contains healthy carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Rainbow Toast

Use your imagination to create colorful toasts! All you need is different kinds of fruit and veggie slices to create an eatable piece of art that both your eyes and tummy will be satisfied with.

LUNCH TOAST

Scrambled Egg and Spinach Toast

Spread a teaspoon of cream cheese on a warm slice of toast, add baby spinach, and top with the warm scrambled egg (use poached egg for a healthier option). As an alternative, you can replace the spinach with kale or arugula.

Avocado and Crunchy Chickpeas Toast

It is a nutrient-packed lunch option and so easy to prepare. Roast the chickpeas with a blend of spicy spices for a few minutes before adding them to the toast. The crunchy chickpeas will blend perfectly with the creamy mashed avocado.

Sloppy Joe’s Toast

If you have some leftover Sloppy Joe, then this is the chance to give it a twist and enjoy it on a warm slice of toast.

Avocado and Poached Egg Toast

Only three steps away from a quick lunch: start by mashing a ripe avocado, use a spoon to spread it nicely on a slice of toast, finally finish by topping with the poached egg. Spice up the things a little with some red pepper flakes or some garlic powder.

Sweet Avocado Toast

Who said avocado couldn’t go well with fruits?! Get a sweet combo by putting mashed avocado and some fresh fruit slices on a toast, and you’ll definitely want to try this again!

GLUTEN-FREE TOAST

If you are looking for gluten-free toast ideas, don’t worry, I’ve got your back!

Corn Tortilla Toast

Corn Tortilla can easily be the perfect base for a toast. Try looking for a natural corn tortilla in the stores or, even better, try making one yourself.

Sweet Potato Toast

Roast 2 medium slices of sweet potato for about 15 minutes. Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy it while still warm.

What is your favorite way to eat toast?