No-Cook Walnut Cookies

No-Cook Walnut Cookies

Aug 20, 2024

Watch

No-Cook Walnut Cookies

If you’re on the hunt for a wholesome treat that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, these Walnut & Date Cookie Treats are just what you need! These no-bake cookies are the perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly satisfying. At the heart of this recipe are dates, nature’s candy, known for their natural sweetness and chewy texture. Dates are not only a great source of quick energy, but they also provide a healthy dose of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. Unlike refined sugars, dates offer a variety of essential nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and vitamins, making them an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in something sweet without the guilt.

Paired with the rich, earthy flavor of raw walnuts, these cookies offer a delightful contrast in textures and tastes. Walnuts are a powerhouse of nutrition, loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation. They’re also packed with antioxidants and vitamins that contribute to heart health and overall well-being. Including walnuts in your diet can support cognitive function, lower bad cholesterol, and even help manage weight, thanks to their protein and fiber content that promotes satiety. By combining walnuts with dates, you’re not just creating a treat that’s delicious; you’re also fueling your body with ingredients that are beneficial for your health in numerous ways.

And let’s not forget the finishing touch: a drizzle of dark chocolate. Known for its rich flavor and health benefits, dark chocolate adds a touch of decadence to these treats without overpowering their natural goodness. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which can improve heart health by reducing blood pressure and improving blood flow. It’s also a mood booster, thanks to its ability to increase serotonin levels in the brain.

With this combination of dates, walnuts, and dark chocolate, these cookies aren’t just a snack; they’re a perfect blend of nutrition and indulgence, offering a satisfying treat that you can feel good about eating.

Ingredients

  • 120 g pitted dates
  • 100 g raw walnuts
  • 30 g dark chocolate
  • 25 g raw walnut halves (optional)

Directions

  1. Start by pitting the dates if they aren’t already pitted. Then, place them in a blender or food processor.
  2. Blend the pitted dates until they form a sticky, cohesive mass. This step may take a few minutes.
  3. Add the raw walnuts to the blended dates. Optionally, add your favorite spices like cinnamon or cardamom, or flavors like vanilla extract or lemon zest if desired (plain works well too).
  4. Blend the mixture once more until the walnuts are well incorporated into the date paste, resulting in a sticky dough-like mixture.
  5. Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into round cookies. To resemble traditional cookies, create a hole in the center of each one using the back of a measuring tablespoon.
  6. Carefully pour some melted dark chocolate into the holes in the center of each cookie. Place a raw walnut half on top of the melted chocolate on each cookie for extra crunch and visual appeal.
  7. Arrange the cookies on a tray and place them in the fridge for 1 hour to set.

Prep Time

  • 30 mins Prep
  • 1 hour in the Fridge

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Serving)

  • Energy: 134 calories
  • Protein: 2.43 g
  • Fat: 9.48 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12.09 g
  • Fiber: 2.1 g

Storage

  • Store your cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Notes

  • Enjoy these delightful walnut and date cookie treats as a quick, healthy, and tasty snack or dessert.
Veggies-Rich Pizza

Veggies-Rich Pizza

Aug 20, 2024

Watch

Veggies-Rich Pizza

Craving pizza but looking for a healthier option that’s just as satisfying? This Veggies-Rich Pizza is exactly what you need! Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this pizza is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Perfect for those who follow a gluten-free diet or anyone wanting to add more veggies to their meals, this pizza is a guilt-free treat that can be enjoyed any time of the day, even for breakfast.

Zucchini, the star ingredient in this recipe, is a versatile and nutrient-dense vegetable. It’s low in calories yet high in essential vitamins like vitamin C and potassium. Zucchini is also rich in antioxidants, which are beneficial for reducing inflammation and protecting your body from free radicals. Including zucchini in your regular diet can support heart health, aid in digestion, and even promote healthy vision.

So why not give this veggie-packed pizza a try and make it a regular part of your meal rotation?

Ingredients

For the pizza crust (or dough):

  • 140 g zucchini
  • 40 g red pepper
  • 40 g onion
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 cup or 40 g oats flour
  • 1/2 tbsp instant yeast

For the pizza garnish (customizable to your preference):

  • 1/4 cup tomato sauce
  • Pizza seasoning to taste
  • 60 g shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 20 g red pepper, sliced
  • 20 g jalapeños pepper, sliced
  • 25 g green olive slices

Directions

  1. In a bowl, combine shredded zucchini, red pepper, and onion. Sprinkle a bit of salt over the shredded veggies and mix to extract the excess moisture.
  2. To the veggie mixture, add oats flour and instant yeast. Mix everything together until well combined.
  3. Allow the dough to “proof” for approximately 20 minutes, allowing it to rise a bit and develop its flavor.
  4. Onto a nonstick pan brushed with a fraction of oil and before turning on the heat, shape the dough into a round crust.
  5. Heat the pan over medium-low heat, cover, and let cook the first side of the crust for about 7 minutes, or until it’s lightly browned.
  6. Flip the crust to cook on the other side. On the cooked side, spread your garnishes of choice. You can use tomato sauce sprinkled with pizza seasoning for that classic pizza flavor. Then, layer shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced red pepper, sliced jalapeños, and green olive slices.
  7. Cover the pan and let it cook for another 7 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together.

Prep Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Proofing Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Energy: 211 calories
  • Protein: 16.45 g
  • Fat: 2.45 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31.19 g
  • Fiber: 6.1 g

Storage and Tips

  • Enjoy the pizza fresh and warm from the pan for the best taste and texture.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Customize your toppings according to your preferences for a pizza that’s uniquely yours!
Almond Oat Cookies

Almond Oat Cookies

Aug 20, 2024

Watch

Almond Oat Cookies

Are you craving something sweet but want to keep it healthy? Let me introduce you to these delightful Almond Oat Cookies! These cookies are not just any cookies; they’re eggless, gluten-free, and made with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy your sweet tooth while nourishing your body. The combination of oat flour and almonds creates a nutty, hearty flavor that pairs perfectly with the hint of vanilla and the sweetness of maple syrup.

Oats, the star of this recipe, are a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which helps reduce cholesterol levels and supports heart health. Oats are also a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a fantastic addition to your daily diet. Adding these cookies to your snack rotation is an easy and delicious way to boost your intake of essential nutrients while enjoying a treat that feels indulgent.

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a lunchbox treat, or a guilt-free dessert, these Almond Oat Cookies are sure to become a household favorite. Plus, they’re super customizable, add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even some dark chocolate chips to make them uniquely yours!

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups (120 g) oat flour
  • 60 g room temperature dairy or non-dairy butter
  • 50 g (~⅓ cup) chopped almonds
  • ⅓ cup maple syrup
  • Pinch of salt
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 30 g dark chocolate chips (optional for garnish)

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix oat flour and room temperature butter until crumbly, using clean hands or a spatula.
  3. Add chopped almonds, a pinch of salt, vanilla extract, and baking powder to the bowl. Gradually pour in maple syrup while mixing, creating a slightly sticky dough.
  4. Let the dough rest in the fridge for about half an hour to harden and make it easier to shape into cookies.
  5. After chilling, shape the dough into large (or preferred size) cookies and gently press dark chocolate chips onto each cookie.
  6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes at 350°F or until the edges turn golden brown.
  7. Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.

Prep Time

  • 20 minutes Prep
  • 30 minutes in the Fridge
  • 35 minutes Baking

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Serving)

  • Energy: 207 calories
  • Protein: 6.71 g
  • Fat: 6.94 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29.69 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g

Storage and Recommendation

  • Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for 1 week.
  • Customize your cookies by adding dried fruits or different types of nuts for added flavor and texture.
No-Knead Brioche

No-Knead Brioche

Aug 20, 2024

Watch

No-Knead Brioche

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, freshly baked brioche, especially when it’s homemade. But let’s face it, the thought of kneading dough can be daunting, especially for those of us who are short on time or just beginning our baking journey. That’s where this no-knead brioche comes in—it’s a game-changer! This recipe allows you to enjoy all the rich, buttery goodness of traditional brioche without the hassle of kneading. It’s perfect for a leisurely weekend breakfast with a cup of coffee, a cozy afternoon tea, or even a simple late-night snack.

The hero of this recipe is the unbleached flour, which brings both substance and nutrition to the table. Unlike bleached flour, unbleached flour is more natural, retaining more of its original nutrients because it hasn’t undergone chemical processing. This means that your brioche isn’t just a treat for the taste buds, but also a more wholesome choice. Unbleached flour is packed with B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and maintaining healthy skin, hair, and eyes. It’s also a good source of iron, which is crucial for carrying oxygen in your blood, helping to keep you energized throughout the day. Including unbleached flour in your diet is a simple way to support your overall health while indulging in a delicious, homemade treat.

This no-knead brioche is not only a breeze to make but also brings a touch of homemade warmth and nutrition to your day. Enjoy every bite, knowing that you’ve created something delicious and nourishing with minimal effort!

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups unbleached flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup lukewarm milk
  • 3 tbsp. maple syrup (or any other sugar of your choice except honey)
  • 30 g melted butter
  • Zest of an orange
  • 1 ½ tbsp instant yeast
  • ⅛ tsp. salt
  • 30 g almond slices (optional for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Grease your mini loaf or muffin pan and cover with a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the unbleached flour, instant yeast, and a pinch of salt. Add the orange zest for a fresh burst of flavor.
  3. Add the egg, lukewarm milk, and maple syrup to the bowl. Stir with a fork until the ingredients are just combined. The goal is to mix everything together without overworking the batter.
  4. Pour in the melted butter and gently incorporate it into the mixture. The batter will be slightly runny, which is just what you want for this recipe.
  5. Carefully pour the batter into your prepared mini loaf or muffin pans, filling each cavity about halfway. Allow the batter to rise for 15 to 30 minutes. This is when the yeast works its magic, giving your brioche that signature light and fluffy texture.
  6. Before baking, sprinkle almond slices over the tops for an extra touch of crunch and flavor.
  7. Place the pan in a preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30 minutes or until the brioche is golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
  8. Remove the pans from the oven and let the brioches cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Prep Time:

  • 20 minutes prep
  • 20 minutes proofing
  • 35 minutes baking

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Serving):

  • Energy: 207 calories
  • Protein: 6.71 g
  • Fat: 6.94 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29.69 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g

Storage and Recommendations:

  • Store your brioche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • To customize your brioche, consider adding flavors like cinnamon or vanilla extract. You can also experiment with different toppings such as seeds or dried fruit to make this recipe your own.

 

Red Lentil Savory Muffins

Red Lentil Savory Muffins

Aug 20, 2024

Watch

Red Lentil Savory Muffins

Today, I’m super excited to share with you a recipe that has become a staple in my kitchen, Red Lentil Savory Muffins. These muffins are the perfect blend of nutritious and delicious, making them a go-to snack or meal addition. Whether you’re packing lunch for work, prepping snacks for the kids, or just need a quick, wholesome bite, these muffins have got you covered!

But before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the star of the show, red lentils. Red lentils are not only quick-cooking and versatile, but they’re also packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Including red lentils in your diet can help improve digestion, support heart health, and provide a steady source of energy throughout the day. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and low in fat, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.

These Red Lentil Savory Muffins are not just a tasty treat; they’re a nutritious powerhouse packed with plant-based protein and essential nutrients. Perfect for meal prep or a quick snack, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household just as they are in mine.

So, let’s embrace the goodness of lentils with these easy and tasty muffins!

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup raw red lentils
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt or sour cream)
  • 80 g shredded carrot
  • 30 g diced red pepper
  • 20 g diced green onion
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • Ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1.  Start by soaking the red lentils for at least 6 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This step is crucial to ensure the lentils are soft and blend smoothly into the batter.
  2.  Once soaked, rinse the lentils thoroughly under running water and drain them well.
  3.  In a blender or using a hand blender, combine the drained red lentils, egg, and plain yogurt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. Transfer the lentil mixture to a mixing bowl. Add in the shredded carrot, diced red pepper, diced green onion, olive oil, salt, ground black pepper, and baking powder. Stir everything together until well combined.
  5. Spoon equally sized portions of the batter into silicone cups or high-quality cupcake liners. Lentil batter tends to stick easily, so using non-stick or silicone molds is recommended.
  6. Place the muffin tray in a preheated oven and bake at 365°F (185°C) for about 35 minutes or until the muffins turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7.  Remove the muffins from the oven, allow them to cool for a bit, and then enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Energy: 124 calories
  • Protein: 5.45 g
  • Fat: 6.02 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12.81 g
  • Fiber: 2.3 g

Storage and Tips:

  • Storage: Store your savory lentil muffins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • Customization: Feel free to experiment with different vegetable combinations to customize the flavor of your muffins. You could add some spinach, zucchini, or even a bit of cheese for extra richness.