Holli Thompson

I spoke recently about superfoods and smoothies at an event in Washington, DC, and I was surprised at how many people had never tried, or even heard of chia seeds. Is that you? Chia seeds benefit us with anti-inflammatory properties; they’re a healthy source of Omega 3 fatty acids, high in fiber and protein, and smoothie lovers appreciate how they thicken naturally when these tiny seeds are added to liquid. They taste almost like old school tapioca pudding. Here’s my latest version of chia pudding. I prefer using liquid stevia to keep my sugar intake in check, but you can use whatever healthy sweetener you have in the cupboard. Fresh raspberries are abundant right now, and southern pecans make me feel like summer. Here’s hoping you love it! Ingredients 2 cup coconut milk 15 drops liquid vanilla stevia (note: you can substitute 2 tsp of maple syrup or honey if you desire) 1/2 cup whole chia seeds 1 teaspoon vanilla extract pinch sea salt 1 teaspoon raw cacao powder 1 cup fresh raspberries plus extra for topping 1/4 cup chopped pecans for topping 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for topping Preparation 1. In a 1-quart mason jar or other container with…

I’m not much of a “baker”, but I love mixing this easy dessert for the holidays; it’s a crowd pleaser. Pumpkin is a fall Superfood, loaded with vitamin A, carotenes, fiber, and antioxidants. While a pumpkin pie is definitely still a sweet treat, using raw pumpkin and natural sweeteners like dates and coconut makes it a healthful choice. I say go for it. I love using the extra raw pumpkin in smoothies, too. Here’s my favorite recipe. Raw Pumpkin Pie Crust Ingredients 2 cups of pecan or walnuts 1/4 cup of soaked dates (pitted and cut into small pieces) sea salt, dash Optional: 1/4 cup dried coconut Preparation Blend the crust ingredients in a high speed blender or food processor, then press evenly in the bottom of a pie plate. Raw Pumpkin Pie Filling Ingredients 2 cups of shredded whole pumpkin 2 teaspoons of finely ground almond flour (optional-this helps to hold the pie together) 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon nutmeg 1 teaspoon coconut oil 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 1/4 cup of almond milk or rice milk to blend Preparation 1. Blend ingredients in a blender and place on top of the crust. Set in fridge for a couple hours to…