Ch-ch-ch-Chia!

Hope everyone is having a great weekend!  I am headed to Portland, ME Saturday for some Trader Joe’s shopping.  Actually, really for some regular shopping and time at camp but it’s hard not be excited about your favorite store on the planet!  If anyone is interested in a Trader Joe’s shopping list when I return I may post one.

One item I like to stock up on while at TJ’s is chia seeds for one of my favorite breakfast recipes, Chia Seed Pudding. This pudding is light, satisfying and great for you. The addition of chia seeds packs in some added fiber and omega-3 antioxidants.  My chocolate version is delicious and serves up an additional 2g of Protein per serving.  It does best when prepared the night before and served for breakfast in the morning with fruit and chopped nuts. One less thing I have to prepare on crazy Monday mornings is always welcome!

Chia Seed Pudding

Serves 4

Ingredients:

I cup unsweetened almond milk

6 oz. non-fat vanilla Greek yogurt

¼ cup chia seeds*

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 ¼ tbsp. agave nectar

1/8 tsp. sea salt

Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding

Serves 4

Ingredients:

1 cup chocolate soy milk

6 oz. non-fat vanilla Greek yogurt

¼ cup chia seeds*

1/8 tsp. sea salt

In a medium bowl, whisk together all ingredients except for chia seeds.  Add in chia seeds and whisk to incorporate. Let stand for 30 minutes in the refrigerator, whisk again and return to refrigerator over night or for several hours.  Serve with a dollop of jam or top with fruit such as blueberries, raspberries or mango.

*You may add additional chia seeds for a more pudding-like consistency, up to 1/3 cup.

Nutrition Facts:  Chia Seed Pudding - 103 Calories, 4g Fat, 12g Carbohydrates, 6g Protein, 4g Fiber, 126mg Sodium, 49mg Potassium

Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding – 104 Calories, 4g Fat, 10g Carbohydrates, 8g Protein, 4.5g Fiber, 111mg Sodium, 71mg Potassium