Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by indulging in a delicious and healthy Valentine’s Day treat with your loved ones?
This week, my family and I are excited to try out a few new recipes that are sure to be both nutritious and delightful—we hope. As always, we’re on the lookout for ways to cut down on sugar while still enjoying our favorite flavors, and even trying some new flavors.
1. Strawberry Almond Yogurt Bark
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1 tablespoon dark chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Spread the yogurt evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired.
3. Scatter the sliced strawberries and almonds over the top.
4. Sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings for an extra touch.
5. Freeze for 2-3 hours until firm, then break into pieces and enjoy.
This frozen treat offers a refreshing combination of creamy yogurt, sweet strawberries, and crunchy almonds. It’s a perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging in sugar. This one will definitely be made again, for a cool summertime treat.
2. Cinnamon Honey Roasted Almonds
Ingredients:
- 2 cups raw almonds
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or butter)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the honey and coconut oil until melted. Stir in the
cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
3. Toss the almonds in the honey mixture until well coated.
4. Spread the almonds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the almonds are toasted
and fragrant.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving.
These roasted almonds were a hit with the family. A warm and crunchy snack with a hint of sweetness, makes them a perfect treat for any occasion.
3. Raspberry Cocoa Love Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen raspberries
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Albeit a little “sour” as my daughter called it, this smoothie is a delightful blend of tart—let me repeat, tart— raspberries and rich cocoa, creating a luscious drink that’s both satisfying and heart-healthy. Not a fan of tart, swipe out the raspberries for strawberries, or whatever your favorite fruit.
As we prepare these recipes this week, I’m reminded of the joy that comes from sharing healthy and delicious food with family. Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to show love and care through the meals we create and enjoy together. I hope these recipes inspire you to try something new and celebrate the holiday in a wholesome way.
BTW: “Love is like sweet honey, but health is the heart’s true treasure.” – Author Unknown
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