No-Cook Walnut Cookies

No-Cook Walnut Cookies

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.
Carrot Walnut Salad

Carrot Walnut Salad

Carrot Walnut Salad

If you’re looking for a salad that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place. This Carrot & Walnut Salad combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the crunch of walnuts and the tangy burst of citrus from freshly squeezed orange juice. Not only is this salad a joy to eat, but it’s also packed with nutrients that are fantastic for your health.

Carrots, the star of this dish, are a powerhouse of beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A, essential for maintaining good vision, a strong immune system, and glowing skin. Walnuts, on the other hand, are loaded with heart-healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and promote brain health. When you bring these ingredients together, you have a salad that’s not just delicious but also a great way to support your overall well-being. Add this salad to your regular diet for a tasty boost of essential nutrients!

This recipe makes a deliciously fresh and crunchy salad that’s perfect as a side dish or a light main course. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the health benefits with every bite!

Ingredients

  • 400 g raw and shredded carrots
  • ⅓ cup or 50 g dried raisins
  • 60 g sliced green onion
  • 1 orange (we’ll use the juice to hydrate the raisins and add to the vinaigrette)
  • ⅓ cup or 35 g raw walnuts
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tbsp. orange juice
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • Black pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Start by juicing an orange. Take the juice and add it to the raisins to hydrate them. Let sit while you start shredding the carrots using a hand grater or food processor and chopping the green onion. Chop the walnuts into large chunks and set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, add shredded carrots, chopped onion, and the drained raisins (from the orange juice). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  3. Prepare the vinaigrette by adding olive oil, apple cider vinegar, the orange juice from the raisins, salt, and black pepper to a jar. Mix well to combine.
  4. Pour the vinaigrette on top of the salad mixture and mix well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Place the salad into a serving plate, garnish with walnut chunks, and enjoy fresh.

Prep Time

  • 30 minutes

Nutrition (Per 1 Serving)

  • Energy: 302 calories
  • Protein: 4.16 g
  • Fat: 12.83 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25.61 g
  • Fiber: 4.8 g

Storage and Notes

  • It’s best to enjoy your carrot salad while still fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Customize the salad by adding other ingredients like dried cranberries or seeds for added flavor and texture!

 

Corn Soup

Corn Soup

Corn Soup

Capture the essence of summer with this delightful and creamy corn soup! This recipe offers a healthy twist on the classic corn cream soup, using wholesome ingredients and no cream or butter. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and taste, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Corn, the star ingredient of this recipe, is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, corn supports digestive health and provides a good source of energy. It’s particularly high in Vitamin B6, which plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, and folate, which is essential for cell function and tissue growth. Additionally, corn is loaded with antioxidants, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health. Incorporating corn into your diet can help keep your meals nutritious while satisfying your taste buds.

Now, let’s dive into this comforting and flavorful corn soup!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (275 g) fresh or frozen corn
  • 200 g diced potato
  • 120 g sliced leeks
  • 80 g diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 3 cups homemade chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 25 g fresh parsley, for garnish
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • Black pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1. Start by heating olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the diced onions, sliced leeks, and sliced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables become translucent and fragrant.
  3. Incorporate the fresh or frozen corn and diced potatoes into the pot. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper. Continue sautéing for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Pour in homemade or store-bought chicken or vegetable broth, bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for approximately 30 minutes, allowing the ingredients to tenderize and the flavors to develop.
  5. Blend the soup to a smooth and velvety cream consistency.
  6. Optionally, blend one cup of the creamy base with a generous amount of fresh parsley to create a vibrant green parsley soup for garnish.
  7. To serve, ladle the creamy corn soup into serving plates. Swirl a dollop of the green parsley soup on top of each serving, creating a visually stunning contrast of colors.

Prep Time:

  • 30 minutes Prep
  • 30 minutes Simmering

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Serving):

  • Energy: 204 calories
  • Protein: 4.16 g
  • Fat: 7.49 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33.79 g
  • Fiber: 4 g

Storage:

  • Store any leftover corn soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Notes:

  • Customize the soup by adding other seasonal vegetables or herbs according to your taste preferences.
  • This recipe is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

 

Almond Oat Cookies

Almond Oat Cookies

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.
Banana Oat Cupcakes

Banana Oat Cupcakes

Banana Oat Cupcakes

If you’re in the mood for something delicious that’s also packed with wholesome ingredients, these Banana Oat Cupcakes are exactly what you need. Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and a touch of maple syrup, these cupcakes offer a satisfying way to curb your sweet cravings while providing a boost of nutrition. They’re moist, flavorful, and perfect for any time of the day, whether it’s breakfast, a snack, or a guilt-free dessert.

Bananas are the star ingredient here, and they’re not just for sweetness. Rich in potassium, bananas help maintain healthy blood pressure and heart function. They’re also high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full longer. Paired with oats, which are a fantastic source of whole grains, these cupcakes offer a dose of complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy throughout the day. The addition of ground flaxseed (optional) brings in some omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.

These Banana Oat Cupcakes are also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as a quick breakfast on the go, a wholesome snack, or a light dessert that won’t weigh you down. Plus, they’re vegan and gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Let’s get baking and whip up these tasty, nutritious cupcakes, you’re going to love every bite!

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 cup (80 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 2 tbsp. ground flaxseed (optional)
  • 2 tbsp. maple syrup (or honey, or any preferred sweetener)
  • 2 tbsp. coconut oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 30 g walnuts, chopped (optional)
  • ⅛ tsp. cinnamon
  • ½ tsp. baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • 60 g banana slices for garnish

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with paper liners.
  2. Start by mashing ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add to the mashed bananas, rolled oats, ground flaxseed, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, baking powder, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
  4. Using an ice cream scooper, divide the batter equally among the cupcake cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
  5. Garnish each cupcake with a slice of banana for additional natural sweetness.
  6. Bake the cupcakes at 350°F (180°C) for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Once baked to golden perfection, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the tray for a few minutes.

Prep Time, Baking Information, and Servings:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Baking Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 6

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Energy: 204 calories
  • Protein: 4.18 g
  • Fat: 10.33 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26.49 g
  • Fiber: 4 g

Storage and Particular Recommendations:

  • Store your cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Enjoy these cupcakes as a delightful breakfast on the go, a wholesome snack during the day, or a guilt-free dessert after a meal. They’re perfect for any occasion and sure to be a hit with everyone!