Christmas is just a few days away, and our little guy specifically asked for a special Christmas smoothie for lunch today.  I decided to make our own version of an old Against All Grain recipe for the special occasion. Chia seed pudding parfaits are a fantastic option for breakfast on the run, as they can last a few days in the fridge. While this is a good base recipe, don’t be afraid to add your own spin to it by adjusting to your own dietary needs, sneak more vegetables and or herbs in.  Merry Christmas!!

-xoxo, Andi

Chia Seed Layer Ingredients

1 can (13.5oz) Clean Coconut Milk

1 to 2 c.            Kale (stems removed)

1/3 c.               White Chia Seeds

1 tsp.               Clean Vanilla Extract (we like homemade with potato vodka or Spicely brand)

1/2 tsp.           Ground Cinnamon

1 tbsp.             Pure Maple Syrup

Chia Seed Layer Instructions

Blend clean coconut milk and kale in a high-powered blender until fully blended, and no chunks of kale remain. In a medium-size bowl, combine all ingredients and whisk until well incorporated.  Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes and whisk again to remove any clumps. Cover and place in the refrigerator and allow it to cool for at least one hour before consuming it. You can work on the strawberry layer in the meantime.

Strawberry Layer Ingredients

1 c.  Clean Almond Milk + a splash or two to allow the blender blade to move (we like homemade, unsweetened MALK, or two-ingredient Elmhurst)

2 c.  Frozen Strawberries

1       Frozen Banana (large)

3      Mint Leaves (optional)

Strawberry Layer Instructions

Place all ingredients in a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.  You may have to use a splash or two more of almond milk to all the blender blades to move properly.  If using a Vitamix, be sure to use your tamper for this recipe.  You need the mixture to be thick like a milkshake.  Pour this in the base of the cups/bowls and top with chia seed mixture after it has set.

 

Possible Toppings/Mix-ins

Toppins: Diced strawberries, pomegranate seeds, shredded coconut, pumpkin seeds, microgreens

Mix-ins: Nut and or seed butter, frozen cauliflower, zucchini, herbals like mint (a favorite of ours in this), rosehips, milk thistle, etc.

Tidbits

Unlike most smoothies, this recipe saves well in the refrigerator and can last a few days before consuming-which helps for breakfast on the run. While this parfait is delicious, it is a lot of chia seeds to consume, and we prefer not to go overboard with it at any single serving.  Chia seeds are high in protein, antioxidants, and fiber, but too much of this fiber can upset one’s stomach. You may want to be a little cautious, especially if you have someone with a sensitive stomach. Coconut, strawberries, and chia seeds are often considered higher in phenol/salicylate.