Chia Seed Pudding Power Up

I swear chia is the new kale.  All of the most annoying health spots serve chia in some form- in water, shakes, granola, pudding, the list goes on.  I resisted as long as I could but now, I get it.

Chia seeds are a superfood meaning they're dense in nutrients with a good amount of protein and a lot of fiber.  The taste of chia seeds are pretty neutral which makes them perfect vehicles for whatever flavors you're craving.

Below is a super basic chia seed pudding recipe.  I've used regular almond milk (opposed to my usual unsweetened) to as the sweetener.  Maple syrup or agave would be delicious too.  Coconut milk will up the fat content and make it more filling.  I top the pudding like I top greek yogurt.  I get the same satisfaction as a yogurt parfait but it's a dairy free treat!  YUM.

• 1/2 cup Chia Seeds

• 1 cup almond milk (I used Califia Farms farms regular vanilla)

• 1 Tsp Vanilla Extract

• Cinnamon to your liking

• Mix above in a container with lid.  Refrigerate until the chia has soaked up the milk and formed a gel.  Can take as little as 30 minutes.

  ***For a more liquid pudding reduce chia to 1/3 cup

As you can see, toppings are my favorite part!  Pomegranate and seedy berries like raspberries blend well with the texture of the pudding.  Almond butter, shredded coconut and slivered/roasted almonds are a no brainer.   Today I'm heading out to an active wear shoot where I'll be running a ton so I added bee pollen.  Bee pollen is not only great for your outdoor allergies if you buy it made locally, but it's also jam packed with B vitamins which act as natural energizers.