Chia Seed Pudding

Did you know that the chia seed’s closest relative in the plant kingdom are mint plants? While mint seeds are inedible and don’t have many health benefits, chia seeds are a super food!

So look no further for the perfect bariatric-friendly dessert! Rice pudding is a delicious treat we all know and love but is chock full of empty carbohydrates. How can you save your favorite rice pudding recipe from going extinct?

Swap out rice for chia seeds! Chia seeds have almost no empty carbohydrates and have less calories than an equal serving of white rice.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup vanilla-flavored unsweetened almond milk
• 1 cup plain low-fat (2 percent) Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp. pure maple syrup, plus 4 tsp. for serving
• 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• Kosher salt
• ¼ cup chia seeds
• 1 pint strawberries
• ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted

DIRECTIONS

In a medium bowl, gently whisk the almond milk, yogurt, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, the vanilla and 1/8 teaspoon salt until just blended. Whisk in the chia seeds; let stand 30 minutes. Stir to distribute the seeds if they have settled. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

The next day, in a medium bowl, toss the berries with the remaining 4 teaspoons maple syrup. Mix in the almonds.

Spoon the pudding into 4 bowls or glasses; mound the berry mixture on top and serve.

NUTRITIONAL FACTS

Serves 4.

RECIPE SOURCE

This recipe from MyRecipes comes courtesy of Food Network Kitchen, and was written up by Giada De Laurentiis.

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/chia-seed-pudding-3362661