Baked Sweet Potato

Baked Sweet Potato

Baked Sweet Potato

With its harmonious blend of flavors and textures, these baked sliced sweet potatoes offer a unique culinary experience that combines the wholesome goodness of sweet potatoes with the comforting flavors of pizza. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber, making them not only delicious but also highly nutritious. These root vegetables are known for their antioxidant properties and ability to support healthy immune function, eye health, and digestion.

Incorporating sweet potatoes into your regular diet is a great way to boost your intake of essential nutrients while enjoying their natural sweetness and versatility in various dishes. With a crispy exterior and a soft, tender interior, these baked sweet potato slices are a perfect side dish to enjoy all year long!

Whether you’re looking for a healthy alternative to traditional potato dishes or a flavorful addition to your meal, these baked sweet potato slices are sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

  • 700 g raw sweet potatoes (approximately 550 g after skin and ends removed)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp pizza seasoning
  • 60 g Parmesan cheese or other cheese of your choice for topping

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash and pat dry the sweet potatoes, then slice them into 1.5 cm thick slices.
  3. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, paprika, and pizza seasoning. Stir well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
  4. Brush both sides of each sweet potato slice with the seasoned olive oil mixture and transfer onto a baking pan lined with parchment paper.
  5. Bake the sweet potato slices in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, allowing them to become tender and slightly crispy.
  6. After baking, remove the sweet potato slices from the oven and generously cover with Parmesan cheese or your preferred cheese.
  7. Switch the oven setting to broil and let it work for a maximum of 2 minutes, or just until the cheese is melted and bubbly to your liking.
  8. Serve the slices while still warm, as a delightful side dish that boasts the soft texture of baked sweet potatoes and the savory taste reminiscent of a classic pizza.

Prep Time

  • 20 minutes

Baking Time

  • 25 minutes

Servings

  • 12 slices

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Slice)

  • Energy: 91 calories
  • Protein: 2.17 g
  • Fat: 4.8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10.11 g
  • Fiber: 1.4 g

Notes

  • Store any leftover sweet potato slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a toaster oven to regain crispiness.
  • These sweet potato slices are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Bounty Bars

Bounty Bars

Bounty Bars

If you’ve ever found yourself reaching for a sweet treat but wished for something a bit more wholesome, then these homemade Bounty Bars are the perfect solution. These bars combine the rich flavors of coconut and dark chocolate to create a satisfying and guilt-free snack. With their chewy coconut filling and decadent chocolate coating, they are reminiscent of the popular store-bought version, but with a nutritious twist.

Coconut is the star ingredient here, and it brings a wealth of health benefits to the table. Rich in healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), coconut can provide a quick energy boost, support metabolism, and even aid in weight management. Additionally, coconut is high in dietary fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer. Incorporating coconut into your diet is an excellent way to enjoy a sweet treat while also nourishing your body with essential nutrients.

These homemade Bounty Bars not only satisfy your sweet cravings but also offer a nutritious alternative to store-bought sweets. Enjoy the rich and creamy flavors with the added benefits of coconut’s nutritional goodness!

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups (120 g) shredded coconut
  • ⅓ cup (90 g) honey
  • ¼ cup coconut oil
  • ¾ cup (160 g) dark chocolate
  • 1 tsp. coconut oil for melting the chocolate
  • ¼ cup (30 g) slivered almonds (optional)

Directions

  1. Combine shredded coconut, coconut oil, and honey in a bowl. Mix well to combine. The texture will be sticky but don’t hold together yet.
  2. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to help the mixture hold together.
  3. Shape small quantities into bars with your hands or any other shapes you may prefer, then place the bars in the fridge for another 30 minutes.
  4. Meanwhile, place the slivered almonds onto a baking tray and roast them for 7 – 10 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (approximately 177°C).
  5. Melt the chocolate chunks with the coconut oil.
  6. Take the bars out of the fridge and dip each coconut bar into the melted chocolate until well coated, using a fork or dipping tool to ensure even coverage.
  7. Garnish with some slivered almonds on top for a crunchier taste.
  8. Transfer the tray to the fridge for 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
  9. Once set, your homemade chocolate and coconut bars are ready to be enjoyed!

Prep Time and Servings

  • Servings: 10 Bars
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 minutes in the fridge

Nutrition Information (Per 1 Serving)

  • Energy: 270 calories
  • Protein: 2.73 g
  • Fat: 22.18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18.24 g
  • Fiber: 4.1 g

Storage and Recommendations

  • Store your Bounty Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • You can experiment with different coatings like nuts or dried fruits, according to your preferences.

 

2 Ingredient Chocolate Mousse

2 Ingredient Chocolate Mousse

2 Ingredient Chocolate Mousse

Chocolate mousse is often considered a decadent treat, usually reserved for special occasions due to its rich flavor and complex preparation. However, this delightful recipe simplifies the process, requiring only two ingredients to create a dessert that is both luxurious and surprisingly easy to prepare. After coming across this method, I was amazed by the simplicity and the resulting rich, velvety mousse that can rival even the most elaborate versions.

The primary ingredient here is dark chocolate, which is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which have been shown to improve heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure. Additionally, it contains a variety of essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc. Incorporating dark chocolate into your diet can provide a delicious way to enjoy these benefits while satisfying your sweet tooth.

This recipe is perfect for when you’re short on time but still want to impress your guests—or simply treat yourself to a little indulgence. With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a mousse that is rich in flavor, smooth in texture, and undeniably satisfying.

 

Ingredients

  • 100 g of your favorite chocolate (dark chocolate works splendidly)
  • 1/2 cup or 125 ml hot water

Directions

  1. Begin by cutting the chocolate into small pieces and placing them in a glass jar.
  2. Pour the hot water over the chocolate.
  3. Using a whisk, vigorously stir to dissolve the chocolate in the hot water.
  4. Once the chocolate is fully dissolved, immerse a hand blender into the mixture (you can also use a food processor).
  5. Blend continuously for at least 1 minute or until the mixture becomes bubbly and smooth.
  6. Pour the creamy mixture into chocolate mousse ramekins of your choice.
  7. Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap to allow the mousse to set properly.
  8. Place the ramekins in the refrigerator and let them work their magic for at least 3 hours.
  9. After chilling, your chocolate mousse will have attained a smooth and creamy consistency, ready to be devoured.

Prep Time, Serving, and Baking Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 3 hours in the fridge
  • Servings: 3

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Serving)

  • Energy: 170 calories
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 4 g

Storage and Recommendations

  • Store any leftover chocolate mousse in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 3 days.
  • You can garnish with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch.

 

Red Lentil Focaccia

Red Lentil Focaccia

Red Lentil Focaccia

Red lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition, boasting high levels of protein, fiber, and iron. Their versatility makes them an excellent alternative to regular bread. We have created a nutritious and delectable focaccia-like bread recipe using red lentils and a few simple ingredients. This bread offers a light, fluffy texture, infused with a mild, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings. Whether you enjoy it as part of a meal or as a wholesome snack, this red lentil focaccia is a delightful and health-conscious choice.

Red lentils should be a regular part of your diet due to their impressive nutritional profile. They are rich in essential nutrients that support heart health, aid digestion, and help maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.

Incorporating red lentils into your meals can also help in managing weight, thanks to their high fiber content, which promotes a feeling of fullness. This red lentil focaccia is not only a great way to enjoy these benefits but also a delicious alternative to traditional bread options.

Enjoy your homemade Red Lentil Focaccia, a delicious and nutritious bread alternative that you’ll want to make again and again!

Directions

  1. Soak red lentils for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. Rinse the soaked lentils thoroughly and make sure you drain them extremely well before transferring them to a mixing glass or blender.
  3. Add the eggs, cottage cheese (or sour cream or yogurt), and salt to the lentils and blend the mixture into a smooth consistency.
  4. Incorporate the baking powder and blend for a few extra seconds to ensure thorough mixing.
  5. Brush a large pan (approximately 20 x 20 cm) with an oil of your choice and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  6. Pour the batter into the baking pan and distribute pitted black olives evenly, creating the arrangement of traditional focaccia bread. You can use your favorite focaccia garnishes at this stage.
  7. Sprinkle rosemary leaves (or preferred herbs) on top of the batter and drizzle olive oil over the surface.
  8. Bake the lentil focaccia bread in a preheated oven for 45 minutes at 350°F (180°C) or until golden brown. Let it cool before cutting and serving!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (190 g) red lentils
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup (200 g) cottage cheese, sour cream, or yogurt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tbsp baking powder
  • 50 g pitted black olives (or green olives)
  • 1 or 2 rosemary stems or other herbs of your choice

Prep Time, Baking Information, and Servings

  • Soaking Time: Overnight
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Baking Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 8

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Serving)

  • Energy: 167 calories
  • Protein: 10.09 g
  • Fat: 7.12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16.6 g
  • Fiber: 2.8 g

Storage and Recommendations

  • Store your leftover focaccia bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Preheat before serving.
  • This lentil focaccia bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings, such as eggs, fresh tomatoes, arugula, or avocado.

 

Cherry Cheesecake

Cherry Cheesecake

Cherry Cheesecake

Get ready to indulge in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that brings a delightful twist to the classic cheesecake! This Cherry Cheesecake is a lighter version, infused with the refreshing flavors of lemon and the sweet, tart taste of cherries. The combination of these vibrant flavors creates a harmonious blend that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Cherries, the star ingredient in this recipe, are not just tasty but also packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. These little red gems are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to improve sleep due to their natural melatonin content. Incorporating cherries into your diet can help boost your overall health, making this cheesecake a perfect treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while offering nutritional benefits.

With a balance of creaminess from the cheese and the tangy sweetness of cherries, this dessert is bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every creamy, tangy, fruity, and sweet bite of this easy and special cheesecake!

 

Ingredients:

  • 300 g cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) maple syrup or any other sweetener of your choice
  • 2 tbsp (15 g) cornstarch
  • Zest of one lemon
  • Juice of one lemon
  • 1 cup (150 g) defrosted cherries

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese, eggs, maple syrup, and cornstarch. Use a hand blender or food processor to blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add the lemon zest and juice to the cream cheese mixture. Mix well to combine, ensuring the lemon flavor is evenly distributed.
  4. Pour the creamy batter into the prepared baking pan. Arrange the defrosted cherries in the middle of the batter, forming a heart shape or any shape you may like.
  5. Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the edges are set.
  6. Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Carefully cut the cheesecake into slices and serve.
  7. Enjoy the creamy, tangy, fruity, and sweet flavors of your homemade cheesecake!

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Energy: 244 calories
  • Protein: 6.99 g
  • Fat: 16.76 g
  • Carbohydrates: 17.57 g
  • Fiber: 0.6 g

Storage:

  • Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • For added flavor, you can drizzle a bit of cherry syrup or garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.