Chia Pudding 4 Ways

Chia is one of the most versatile superfoods out there. It contains more calcium than a glass of milk in just one small serving. It is virtually tasteless, so you can sprinkle it on salads, throw on top of your smoothie, and even make pudding out of it. This is a great snack you can have anytime during the day. Breakfast or dessert....it's a great choice! Packed with more protein than any other plant source per ounce, it has only 1 carb per serving because of the fiber content....yes low carb and high in protein. I'll take it. These little beauties are so easy to make and whip up in just minutes. The hardest part is waiting for them to set which usually takes about 4 hours. I love to make the Peanut Butter and Chocolate one as my nighttime treat. Which one is your favorite?

Greek Yogurt and Vanilla Chia Pudding

1 cup unsweetened almond milk

1 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt

2 TBSP maple syrup

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp Truvia (or other granulated stevia)

pinch of salt

¼ cup chia seeds

topping: fruit and granola

·      Combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Mix well

·      Place in jar or other container and cover. Place in fridge

·      Allow to sit in fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. Give the mixture another couple of stirs.

·      Divide into containers and top with fruit and granola

·      Will keep in fridge for up to 4 days covered. Serves 4

Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chia Pudding

1 cup unsweetened almond milk

¼ cup chia seeds

2 TBSP cocoa powder

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 TBSP natural peanut butter, chunky (I like Adams)

1 TBSP Maple syrup

1 tsp Truvia (or any granulated Stevia)

topping: chopped peanuts and dark chocolate

·      In a small bowl, combine all ingredients. Taste for sweetness, adjust as necessary

·      Place in a jar or other small container for at least 4 hours or overnight.

·      Top with chopped peanuts or dark chocolate

·      Will stay good in fridge for up to 4 days covered. Serves 3

Vegan Coconut Pudding

1 can full fat coconut milk

2 TBSP maple syrup

½ tsp coconut extract

1/3 cup chia seeds

pinch of salt

topping: shredded coconut and mixed berries

·      In small bowl, mix all ingredients together.

·      Place in jar or small container and allow to set in fridge for 4 hours or overnight.

·      Top with coconut and mixed berries

·      Will keep up to 4 days in fridge covered. Serves 4

Tropical Protein Chia Pudding

1 cup unsweetened almond milk

1 scoop vanilla protein powder (whey or vegan)

1/3 cup diced fresh pineapple

¼ c chia seeds

1 tsp maple syrup

1 tsp coconut extract

topping: toasted coconut, fresh pineapple

·      Mix ingredients into small bowl. Make sure protein powder is evenly distributed

·      Pour into a jar or other small container. Place in fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. Top with toasted coconut and some fresh pineapple. Serves 2