Spicy Almonds

Spicy Almonds

Aug 17, 2024

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Spicy Almonds

Get ready to be amazed by the flavors of these Spicy Turmeric Roasted Almonds—a wholesome snack that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. Almonds are already a powerhouse of nutrients, providing a good dose of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. But when you combine them with the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and ginger, you’re elevating this snack to a whole new level of health benefits.

Almonds are an excellent source of vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants, all of which contribute to heart health, skin health, and overall well-being. By soaking the almonds before roasting, you help enhance their digestibility and increase nutrient absorption. The addition of turmeric and ginger not only adds a warm, spicy flavor but also packs these almonds with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric, especially when paired with black pepper, boosts your body’s ability to absorb curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, which is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Coconut oil, used in this recipe, is another healthy fat that helps support metabolism and provides a subtle richness to the almonds.

These roasted almonds are the perfect snack to keep on hand when you need something crunchy, flavorful, and good for you. They’re easy to make and can be stored for days, making them an excellent choice for meal prep or just a healthy treat to enjoy throughout the week.

Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of raw almonds (85 g)
  • 6 g fresh ginger
  • 4 g fresh turmeric
  • 1 tbsp. coconut oil
  • ½ tsp. Himalayan salt
  • Pinch of chili powder
  • Black pepper (to activate curcumin)
  • 1 tbsp. maple syrup (used as a glue)

Directions

  1. Soak almonds for 24 hours before coating and roasting.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
  3. Grate fresh ginger and fresh turmeric. Mix with coconut oil, salt, chili powder, black pepper, and maple syrup.
  4. Toss soaked almonds in the spice mixture until evenly coated.
  5. Spread coated almonds on the baking sheet and roast for 25-35 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
  6. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Nutritional Information

Per 1 Serving (1 oz; 30 g):

  • Energy: 225 calories
  • Protein: 6.12 g
  • Fat: 18.73 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11.47 g
  • Fiber: 3.8 g

Notes

  • Coconut oil, turmeric, and ginger are known to have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • These crunchy and flavorful almonds can help combat inflammation and promote overall well-being.

Prep Time and Servings

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 24 hours soaking time)
  • Baking Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 3 servings

Storage and Recommendations

  • Storage: Store these roasted almonds in an airtight container for up to one week.
  • Recommendations: Enjoy these almonds as a snack on their own, or sprinkle them over salads or yogurt for an added crunch and flavor boost.
Dipping Sauces

Dipping Sauces

Aug 17, 2024

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Dipping Sauces

Indulge in the rich flavors of these thick, creamy, and outrageously tasty dipping sauces, offering a delightful alternative to store-bought mayonnaise. While mayonnaise is a common condiment found in many kitchens, store-bought versions often contain unhealthy fats, artificial additives, and preservatives that can detract from an otherwise nutritious meal. Making your own sauces at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that what you’re eating is as wholesome as possible.

Store-bought mayonnaise is typically made with refined oils, which can be high in omega-6 fatty acids. While omega-6s are essential in small amounts, an excess in the diet can contribute to inflammation and other health issues. Additionally, many commercial mayonnaises contain sugar, artificial flavors, and stabilizers, which are best avoided if you’re striving for a healthier diet.

By preparing your own dipping sauces using fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients, you not only enhance the flavor of your meals but also provide your body with essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Ingredients like avocado, tahini, and olive oil are packed with monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and help to lower bad cholesterol levels. Fresh herbs and garlic add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, boosting your overall health with every bite.

These homemade sauces are versatile and can be used as dips or dressings for a variety of dishes, from salads to sandwiches and BBQ meats. Say goodbye to unhealthy fats and artificial additives, and embrace the goodness of homemade, flavorful sauces that nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds.

Let’s get started on making thes wholesome and delicious dipping sauces or mayonnaise alternatives!

Ingredients

Avocado Dip Sauce:

  • 200 g avocado flesh
  • 4 fresh coriander stems
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. lemon juice
  • ½ tsp. dried onion
  • ½ tsp. dried garlic
  • 2 to 3 tbsp. water (to adjust the thickness)
  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Tahini Dip Sauce:

  • ⅓ cup tahini
  • ½ cup hot water
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 tbsp. white vinegar
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Peanut Butter Dip Sauce:

  • ⅓ cup unsweetened peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp. sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp. soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp. maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp. sriracha sauce
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Feta Cheese Dip Sauce:

  • 100 g feta cheese
  • ½ cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. lemon juice
  • 4 fresh coriander stems
  • 4 fresh dill stems
  • Black pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Avocado Dip Sauce: Blend avocado, fresh coriander, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, dried onion, and dried garlic with water until smooth and creamy.
  2. Tahini Dip Sauce: Whisk tahini, hot water, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until you get a creamy and thick consistency.
  3. Peanut Butter Dip Sauce: Mix peanut butter, sesame oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, lemon juice, Tabasco sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper until you get a creamy and fragrant texture.
  4. Feta Cheese Dip Sauce: Blend feta cheese, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, coriander, dill, salt, and pepper until creamy and rich.
  5. Serve each sauce with your favorite dishes for a delicious and healthy dipping experience.

Nutritional Information

  • Due to the variety of ingredients in the four different sauces, specific nutritional information is not provided. You can calculate the nutritional information for each sauce based on the ingredients used.

Notes:

  • We can’t provide the nutritional info for all 4 dipping sauces. You can do it for each one if you desire.
  • Store avocado sauce for up to 2 days in the fridge. The other 3 can be stored for up to 1 week.

Prep Time and Servings

  • Prep Time: 30 to 40 minutes
  • Servings: Multiple servings

Storage and Recommendations

  • Storage: Store the avocado dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The tahini, peanut butter, and feta cheese dips can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  • Recommendations: These sauces are perfect for dipping fresh vegetables, drizzling over salads, or adding a burst of flavor to grilled meats and sandwiches.
Baked Potato Wedges

Baked Potato Wedges

Aug 17, 2024

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Baked Potato Wedges

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of these crispy potato wedges paired with a creamy avocado sauce, a guilt-free delight that promises to satisfy your cravings without compromising your health. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a side dish, or even a party appetizer, these potato wedges are a versatile choice that never disappoints.

Potatoes are a beloved staple in many households, and for good reason. They are not only incredibly versatile but also packed with essential nutrients. Rich in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, potatoes provide a hearty and satisfying base for countless recipes. When baked to perfection, as in this recipe, they become crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside—a combination that’s simply irresistible. Pairing these wedges with a fresh avocado sauce not only elevates the dish but also adds a dose of healthy fats and antioxidants, making this a snack that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Let’s dive into how you can make these crispy potato wedges at home!

Ingredients

For Potato Wedges:

  • 850 g potatoes, flesh and skin
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. paprika
  • ½ tsp. dried onion
  • ½ tsp. dried garlic

For Avocado Sauce:

  • 2 medium-sized avocados (200 g avocado flesh)
  • 4 or 5 fresh coriander stems
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. lemon juice
  • ½ tsp. salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ tsp. dried onion
  • ½ tsp. dried garlic
  • 2 to 3 tbsp. water (to adjust the thickness)

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut large white and cleaned potatoes into wedges and pat dry.
  2. Mix olive oil, salt, paprika, dried onion, and dried garlic. Coat potato wedges.
  3. Bake the potato wedges for 1 hour or until crispy and brown to your liking.
  4. Instead of the popular and unhealthy mayonnaise, prepare your own avocado sauce.
  5. Blend avocado, fresh coriander, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, dried onion, and dried garlic (or with your favorite spices). If necessary, add water to reach the right consistency for your taste.
  6. Serve the wedges hot with avocado sauce for dipping.

Nutritional Information

Per 1 Serving of potato wedges:

  • Energy: 223 calories
  • Protein: 4.29 g
  • Fat: 6.94 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37.12 g
  • Fiber: 4.7 g

Notes:

  • The avocado sauce is way better than any classic mayonnaise you have tried before.
  • Best to consume while still crispy and hot.

Prep Time and Servings

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Baking Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 4 servings

Storage and Recommendations:

  • Storage: Store any leftover potato wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.
  • Recommendations: These wedges make a fantastic side dish for burgers, grilled meats, or just as a snack on their own with the avocado dip.
Carrot Salad

Carrot Salad

Aug 16, 2024

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Carrot Salad

Welcome to another wholesome recipe that brings both flavor and nutrition to your table! Today, we’re diving into a vibrant Carrot Salad that’s not just easy to make but also packed with health benefits.

Carrots are the star of this dish, and they’re a powerhouse when it comes to boosting your overall health. Rich in beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A, carrots help maintain healthy vision, skin, and immune function. They’re also loaded with fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you full longer—a perfect reason to include them in your regular diet. Plus, with the addition of heart-healthy walnuts, this salad offers a delightful crunch and an extra dose of omega-3 fatty acids. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a vibrant side dish, this Carrot Salad is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation!

Ingredients

  • 400 g carrots
  • ¼ cup walnuts (8 halves)
  • Approximately 3 green leaves of green onion
  • 1 tsp. mustard seeds
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • Black pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Using a vegetable hand peeler, thinly slice the carrots and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add chopped green onion, chopped walnuts, and mustard seeds to the sliced carrots.
  3. In a separate bowl, prepare the vinaigrette by combining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure even coating.
  5. Transfer the salad to a serving plate and enjoy the crisp, refreshing flavors of this healthy creation.

Nutritional Information

Per 1 Serving:

  • Energy: 155 calories
  • Protein: 2.1 g
  • Fat: 11.91 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11.42 g
  • Fiber: 3.6 g

Prep Time, Servings, and Storage

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Storage: For optimal freshness and nutritional benefits, it’s best to consume the salad within the first hour after adding the vinaigrette. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but note that the carrots may lose their crispness over time.

Notes

  • Vegan & Gluten-Free: This salad is perfect for those following vegan or gluten-free diets.
  • Extra Tip: Mustard seeds add a layer of aroma and depth, elevating the salad to culinary excellence.
Sesame Crunch Candies

Sesame Crunch Candies

Aug 9, 2024

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Sesame Crunch Candies

Hey everyone!  Who else here has a serious love for those crunchy sesame candies? You know, the ones that are so addictive you can’t stop at just one. Well, today I’m going to show you how to make your very own sesame crunch candies right at home!  And guess what? They’re super simple to make, with just two natural ingredients—no refined sugar here! You’ll be able to whip these up in less than 5 minutes of prep time.

But before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the star of the show: sesame seeds.  Not only do these tiny seeds pack a big punch when it comes to flavor, but they’re also a powerhouse of nutrition. Sesame seeds are rich in healthy fats, plant-based protein, and are loaded with essential minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium. These nutrients are fantastic for maintaining strong bones, supporting your immune system, and even helping to keep your heart healthy.

Incorporating sesame seeds into your regular diet can help you meet your daily nutritional needs, especially if you’re looking for natural ways to boost your calcium intake—yes, these little seeds can do that! Plus, they’re an excellent source of fiber, which we all know is key for good digestion. So, not only are these sesame crunch candies delicious and satisfying, but they’re also good for you! 

Now, let’s get into how to make these crunchy, sweet treats. Trust me, you’re going to love them!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (120 g) sesame seeds
  • 3 to 4 tbsp. maple syrup

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line the cups of a mini loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the sesame seeds with maple syrup.
  4. Mix thoroughly until every seed is well-coated with the syrup, which acts as the binder.
  5. Spoon about 1 ½ tablespoons of the sticky sesame mixture into each parchment-lined loaf cup.
  6. Use an espresso coffee spoon or any small spoon to press the mixture firmly, ensuring a smooth and even distribution.
  7. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
  8. Allow the sesame crunches to cool completely in the pan before removing them. This ensures they are set properly and hold their shape.

Prep Time, Servings, and Storage:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 10 to 12 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Serving):

  • Energy: 121 calories
  • Protein: 3.07 g
  • Fat: 9.19 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8.46 g
  • Fiber: 1.7 g

Storage & Recommendations:

  • Storage: Store your sesame crunch candies in a glass container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week, but they might not last that long once you start snacking on them!
  • Recommendations: These sesame candies are perfect for a quick snack, a sweet treat after meals, or even as a gift to friends and family. Just be warned—they’re seriously addictive!