Ginger Peach Smoothie Redux

Sweet, creamy, and a hint of tang! This is a delicious way to start a summer day.

Ingredients:

1 cup frozen spinach
1 large, or 2 medium (ripe!) peaches
1 heaping tablespoon cashew butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 inch-long hunk of fresh ginger, peeled
1 pinch ground turmeric
1 drop doTERRA ginger essential oil
1 teaspoon lime juice
2 cups pure water

Method:

Place all ingredients in blender and blend to smithereens.
Pour into your favorite mason jar and enjoy!
*If you want to make your smoothie a little juicier, leave out 1/4-1 of one of your peaches before blending, chop it up and add it to the smoothie once your other ingredients have been smoothified. Just a tasty little variation!

Spiced Banana Seed Granola

This granola is a delightful by the handful, or atop yogurt or chia pudding. Great for anyone who can’t stomach nuts but crave granola!

This recipe was inspired by Dr. Kristen Lum at Rivergate Natural Healthcare.

Ingredients:

2 cups raw pepitas (hulled pumpkin seeds)
2 cups raw sunflower seeds
1/2 cup raw sesame seeds
1/4 cup raw flax seeds

3 drops doTERRA cinnamon essential oil
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
3 drops doTERRA cardamom essential oil
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 medium/large sized bananas

10 fresh dates, soaked or 1/4 cup honey/vegan sweetener
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
2 tbs. water
1 tbs. vanilla extract
1/4 tsp. salt

Optional:
1/4 cup raisins
1/2 cup banana chips (we used unsweetened, either would work)
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, optional (Enjoy Life are good)

Method:

Soak the fresh dates in room temp water for 2-3 hours, remove the pits. If you use dried dates the soaking time will be longer.

Preheat oven to 200-250 degrees

In a large bowl, combine all the seeds and toss to combine.

In a blender or food processor, add the bananas, soaked dates or honey, oil, essential oils, spices, water, and vanilla extract. Puree until smooth.

Pour the banana mixture and salt over the seed mixture and toss the ingredients until well-combined. (Hands and/or a spatula are good for this job.)

Spread the new mixture evenly on two cookie sheets that have been lined with cooking parchment.

Bake in a 200-250 degree oven till crispy (about an hour, but will vary by oven).
If you prefer Raw granola, use a dehydrator instead of the oven.

When the granola is crispy, remove from the oven and let cool. The granola will get crispier as it cools.

If using, add the banana chips, raisins, chocolate chips to cooled granola, toss to combine.

Store in an air tight container. We keep ours in the fridge. Makes about 5 cups of granola.

 

Raw Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites

May you enjoy the sweetness of this life! Here’s a quick and easy recipe to fulfill your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

1 1/3 cup  cashews (raw or roasted and salted)
2/3 cup gluten free oats
1/3 cup shredded coconut
3-4 tablespoons maple syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons almond butter
1/2 cup chocolate or carob chips
Hefty pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg
*Optional: add a splash of almond milk if your dough isn’t sticking together well. JUST A SPLASH!
*Optional: mini-pinch sea salt if you’re not using roasted salted cashews

Method:

Blend the cashews, oats, and coconut in a food processor until you’ve created a fine-ish powder.

Add the syrup, vanilla extract, and almond butter and blend again until it sticks together to form a dough. Add the splash of almond milk if it doesn’t turn dough-y.

Add the chocolate chips and pulse briefly or mix in by hand.

Roll the dough into little balls and put them on a parchment lined cookie sheet, or in a pyrex food container. Allow to chill in the fridge for at least 3o minutes. Serve and enjoy!

Roasted Squash Bowls with Maple Spiced Yogurt

Roasted squash halves make the perfect bowl for your favorite sweet or savory treat!

Ingredients:

1/2 of a roasted sweet winter squash (I used acorn)
1/2-1 cup full fat organic Greek yogurt
1 tbs. maple syrup (or more to taste)
1 drop doTERRA cinnamon or cardamom essential oil
Handful of chopped pecans
Pinch of cinnamon for garnish

Method:

Mix all of the ingredients but for the squash and pecans together.
Place the spicy yogurt mixture in the squash half.
Sprinkle with pecans and cinnamon.
Enjoy!

 

 

Spicy Apple Smoothie

Don’t let the cool weather deter you from green smoothie-ing! Add a pinch of ginger and/or cayenne pepper to your smoothie to keep your digestion strong and taste buds happy!

Ingredients:

1 medium apple, cored
1 cup filtered water
1/2 cup coconut milk
3-6 tbs. Solay Sacred Strength Protein Powder (or your favorite protein powder, or 3-6 tbs. raw pepitas)
1 cup fresh spinach, blanched
1 drop doTERRA ginger essential oil (or 1/2 tsp. powdered ginger)
*optional: 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

Method:

Place all of the ingredients in a high powered blender and blend to smithereens.

Serve and enjoy!

Jazzed Up Rice Pudding

This rice pudding recipe uses other types of dried fruit and nuts for an even tastier take on the comfort food classic.

Ingredients:

1/4 chopped dried fruit: figs, dates, prunes, apricots, raisins, etc.
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice
1 1/2 cups whole raw milk (you can use coconut milk if you’re not into dairy)
3 eggs
1/4 cup maple syrup (or less if you’re like me and think that every dessert is over sweetened)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Pinch nutmeg
Pinch sea salt
Ghee for greasing the pan

Method:

Preheat the oven to 375° F.

Grease an 8X8 pan.

In a medium bowl, whisk together all the ingredients and pour into the pan.

Bake, uncovered, at 375° for 40-50 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool. (If you can wait that long!)

Pour milk over each serving if desired. Refrigerate leftovers.

Benefits:

It’s delicious soul food…Need I say more? If so, see below:

Brown Rice: When properly prepared, brown rice is an excellent source of manganese, and provides a good amount of selenium, phosphorus, copper, magnesium, and niacin (vitamin B3) in the diet. It’s also super high in fiber (which in combo with selenium packs a one-two punch for colon health). See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Organic Eggs: (Preferably pasture-fed) Eggs are a good source of low-cost high-quality protein. They provide over 6 grams of protein (13% of the daily value for protein) each, and are a good source of choline, a key component of many fat-containing structures in cell membranes, which is particularly important for brain function and health. Eggs are also a rich source of tryptophan and selenium. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Local Raw Milk: This is a VERY touchy subject. So I will leave it to the professionals. See here if you’re interested in learning more about raw milk. Otherwise, good organic milk is a fine alternative.

Pecans: Pecans contain a plethora of vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, vitamin E, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, a variety of B vitamins and zinc. One ounce of pecans provides 10 percent of the recommended Daily Value for fiber. Pecans are also a source of monounsaturated or “good” fat and protein. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information. Many suggest that soaking nuts (and grains, legumes, and seeds) before consuming them enhances their nutritional quality.

 

Summer Melon and Avocado Pudding

This pudding is cool, creamy, and utterly refreshing.

Ingredients:

1 avocado, just the flesh
2 cups ripe de-rinded melon (honeydew or Santa Claus melons are nice because their pale green flesh lends to the delicate hue of the pudding)
1/4 cup coconut milk
1 tsp. lemon juice
Teeny pinch salt
*Optional: honey to taste if you like it even sweeter

Method:

Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy.

You might need to stop the blender and stir the ingredients with a spatula a couple times just to ensure even blending.

Place in a container and allow to chill in the fridge for at least 20 minutes (if you can wait that long!)

Serve and enjoy!

*Optional: Serve with a little wedge of lemon…squeeze a few drops of lemon juice over your bowl and enjoy!

Benefits:

Avocado: Avocado is an excellent source of healthy fats, fiber, folate, vitamins K, C, and B, and potassium. It also contains a wide spectrum of inflammation-fighting nutrients. Avocado also helps increase our intake of two key carotenoid antioxidants—lycopene and beta-carotene—when eaten with romaine lettuce, spinach, and carrots. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Cantaloupe/Honeydew: This melon is a plentiful source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium. It is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory fruit, which means it can help us to fight off unwanted inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Coconut: Coconut is highly nutritious, rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Both modern and traditional medicine have recognized coconut as having antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Meanwhile coconut provides a nutritional source of quick energy, and can be used to enhance endurance and physical performance. Coconut is also soothing to the digestive tract, and aids in absorption of other nutrients within the body. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Lemon: Lemons are vitamin C powerhouses. Great for immunity, vitamin C can also be helpful for preventing the development and progression of atherosclerosis and diabetic heart disease. See here for more health benefits and nutritional info.

 

Simple Raw Brownie Bites

Chill these tasty bites for a chewy chocolatey treat!

Ingredients:

2/3 cup raw almonds
2/3 cup raw walnuts
1-2 tbs. almond butter
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup pitted dates
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

*optional: 1 drop doTERRA wild orange essental oil and a little orange zest
*optional: 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
*optional fun add ins: cacao nibs, paleo chocolate chips, coconut flakes, dried cherries or blueberries, cinnamon, cardamom

Method:

Place nuts, nut butter, and salt in a food processor and blend until they are finely ground.

Add the dates, cocoa powder (and vanilla, essential oils, spices, or other add-ins if using) to the bowl. Mix all ingredients until well combined. While the food processor is running, you can add a little water, a few drops at a time, to help the dough stick together.

Use your hands to form 1-inch (or littler) balls and place them in an airtight container. Allow them to chill for at least an hour (trust me, they’re delicious cold!).

They will keep for up to a week. Bon apetít!

Benefits:

Almonds: Almonds are a Supernut. High in monounsaturated fats (associated with reduced risk of heart disease), almonds contain high amounts of vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. They are also high in protein, which makes them an ideal snack. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information. Many suggest that soaking nuts (and grains, legumes, and seeds) before consuming them enhances their nutritional quality.

Cacao: Organic cacao is a legit superfood. It abounds with Vitamin A, C, and E, and a plethora of B vitamins, as well as, magnesium, copper, calcium, manganese, zinc, sulphur, iron, chromium, phosphorus, and Omega 6 fatty acids. It is also high in protein and fiber. Move over spinach! See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Dates: Dates are rich with vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, calcium, iron, potassium, manganese, and copper. They are also high in other antioxidants such as beta carotene and lutein, which help protect and nourish our cells. But they’re high in sugar, so a dab’ll do ya. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Walnuts: Walnuts are powerful medicine. They are packed with valuable antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients such as omega fatty acids, manganese, and copper. Walnuts have been studied and proven to help decrease risk of certain cancers,  including prostate and breast. They also help prevent cardiovascular problems and type 2 diabetes. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information. Many suggest that soaking nuts (and grains, legumes, and seeds) before consuming them enhances their nutritional quality.

 

 

Spiced Peach Lassi

‘Tis the height of peach season, and this recipe is a delightful way to partake. Slightly sweet, tart, cooling, and very nourishing, it’s sure to please any palate.

This recipe was inspired by FeedMePheobe.com.

Ingredients:

2 ripe yellow peaches, halfed and separated from their pits (discard the pits)
1/2 cup full fat plain Greek yogurt
1 pinch either powdered cardamom or cinnamon
*1 tablespoon honey or organic maple syrup, optional
1/4 cup coconut milk, coconut water, or water
1 drop doTERRA wild orange or tangerine essential oil
4 ice cubes

• 2 ripe yellow peaches
• 6 ounces non-fat plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey or organic maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut water, coconut milk, or water
• 2 ice cubes

Instructions

1. Cut each peach in half lengthwise and twist apart so the stone is exposed. Roughly chop the peaches and discard the stone. Add to a food processor or blender along with the remaining ingredients.
2. Puree until smooth. Divide between two glasses and chill until ready to serve.

– See more at: http://feedmephoebe.com/2013/07/the-balanced-diet-peach-lassi/#sthash.vOi999tA.dpuf

• 2 ripe yellow peaches
• 6 ounces non-fat plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey or organic maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut water, coconut milk, or water
• 2 ice cubes

Instructions

1. Cut each peach in half lengthwise and twist apart so the stone is exposed. Roughly chop the peaches and discard the stone. Add to a food processor or blender along with the remaining ingredients.
2. Puree until smooth. Divide between two glasses and chill until ready to serve.

– See more at: http://feedmephoebe.com/2013/07/the-balanced-diet-peach-lassi/#sthash.vOi999tA.dpuf

Method:

Place all of the ingredients in a high speed blender and puree until smooth.

Pour into a glass or two and enjoy!

Benefits:

Cardamom: This spice is an excellent source of iron and manganese, making it a rock star for blood and cellular regeneration. It also contains significant amounts of riboflavin, niacin, vitamin C, and can be used as an anti-spasmodic and digestive aid. Great for the belly AND the heart. See here for more health benefits and nutritional info.

Coconut: Coconut is highly nutritious, rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Both modern and traditional medicine have recognized coconut as having antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Meanwhile coconut provides a nutritional source of quick energy, and can be used to enhance endurance and physical performance. Coconut is also soothing to the digestive tract, and aids in absorption of other nutrients within the body. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Peach: Peaches are high in a number of nutrients such as niacin, thiamine, potassium, and calcium. They are also high in beta carotene, an antioxidant that converts to Vitamin A (which is essential for healthy hearts and eyes). Some say the darker the peach’s color, the richer it is in Vitamin A. The antioxidants may also help in maintaining healthy urinary and digestive functions. Eastern cultures consider peach tea as a powerful kidney cleanser and is used in detoxification. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is a thicker, creamier version of “regular” yogurt that boasts high protein, healthy bacteria which support healthy gut flora, and is a good source of calcium. It’s a versatile addition to your diet and can replace higher fat dairy products. See here for more about the nutritional info and health benefits of yogurt.

Wild Orange Essential Oil: Wild orange essential oils is anti-bacterial, anti-depressant, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiseptic, and carminative (expels gas from the alimentary canal, relieving colic and spasmodic pain of bowels). It is also a digestive aid, a gentle sedative, and is hugely mood uplifting. See here to learn more about doTERRA essential oils.

 

 

Pick-Me-Up Green Juice

A little zingy, a little sweet, this veggie-based juice is a great way to revive yourself on these hot summer days!

Ingredients:

2 medium carrots, tops chopped off
1/2 apple, cored and sliced into wedges
3 celery stalks, de-stringed
2.5 cups fresh spinach
1 inch hunk of fresh ginger, peeled
1/2 lemon, de-rinded
1 drop lemon essential oil
*optional: up to 1/2 cup fresh, purified water

Method:

Place all ingredients but essential oil in your juicer. Juice. Place in a glass jar (with a lid) add your essential oil and optional water. Shake it up to mix it all together. Sip to your heart’s content!

Or, place all ingredients in your high-powered juicer. Add 1 cup filtered water. Blend to smithereens. Strain over a glass. Enjoy!

Benefits:

Apples:  My, what balanced phytonutrients you have, oh beloved apple. Apples contain a wide array of polyphenols which help regulate our blood sugar. They’re also a great source of Vitamin C and other antioxidants, and fiber. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Carrot: Carrots are well known for their rich supply of the antioxidant nutrient, beta-carotene, which is GREAT for our eye health. However, these root vegetables are also a great source of a variety of antioxidants and other health-supporting nutrients such as vitamins A, C, K. Studies have shown their effectiveness in the prevention of colon cancer, and their benefits to our cardiovascular health. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Celery: Celery is jam-packed with vitamins K and C, beta-carotene, and manganese. But also contains phytonutrients that are shown to have anti-inflammatory benefits and protect the digestive tract. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Ginger: Ginger is very effective in alleviating symptoms of gastrointestinal distress such as gas, bloating, motion sickness, and morning sickness. See here for more health benefits and nutritional information.

Lemon: Lemons are vitamin C powerhouses. Great for immunity, vitamin C can also be helpful for preventing the development and progression of atherosclerosis and diabetic heart disease. See here for more health benefits and nutritional info.

Lemon Essential Oil: Lemon oil has many properties including antidepressant, antifungal, antiviral, antiseptic, and antioxidant. It is refreshing and invigorating, had can be used to help lower blood pressure, improve memory, ease sore throats and anxiety, help dissolve cellulite, boost energy, calm digestive problems, cleanse the lymphatic system cleansing, and promote a sense of well-being. It is also miraculous for removing grease, gum, oil, and unwanted marks and spots. See here to learn more about doTERRA essential oils.

Spinach: Spinach is a rich source of vitamin K (think blood builder/purifier!), vitamins A, C, B2 and B6, as well as manganese, folate, magnesium, iron, calcium, and potassium. Popeye apparently knew how to protect himself against inflammatory problems and oxidative stress-related issues, while promoting his cardiovascular and bone health. AND he got the girl! See here for more health benefits and nutritional info.