Cream of Broccoli Soup

Surely there are people in the world who don't like broccoli.  But I'm not one of them!  And this is definitely one of my favorite ways to eat it. 

What makes broccoli so healthy?  Like all the other cruciferous vegetables -- brussel sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage and so on -- there's a secret ingredient that packs a wallop when it comes to

Berry Blast "Cereal"

Say goodbye to cold boxed cereals when you say hello to this fast and easy breakfast cereal.  It takes about 2 minutes in the food processor. 

For all the folks who are gluten-free, dairy-free, and even grain-free, it's a fun alternative to start the day.  And even if you're not any of those, I bet you'll still like it!  It could make a great snack too. 


Berry Blast Cereal

Serves 1 (about 3/4 cup)

Note: all tablespoon measurements are "heaping".

In food processor, process with steel blade until finely ground:

1/4 cup raw almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds

Then add and continue pulsing:

1/2 large granny smith apple cut in big chunks
1 T. shredded coconut (unsweetened) or coconut flour
2 T. flax meal
1 T. coconut oil (extra virgin)
optional:  1/2 scoop whey (unflavored) or other protein powder for more protein; otherwise it's about 10 grams protein. 

The "cereal" is tasty just like this and can be used as a base for other creative ideas, like adding spices.   But for the berry burst, at this point add to the mixture:

a handful of blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries (the raspberries create an especially vibrant flavor)

Pulse several more times until the berries are mixed in.   I like to press the mixture into a 1/4 measuring cup to mold, then turn out into a pretty dish.  Add a few berries on top for color.  And enjoy!


Adele Sonora
Nutrition and Health Educator
asonora@cal.net

 

Spinach Basil Pesto

Pesto is a great way to eat vegetables, I've decided.  By varying the greens (like using just basil or just cilantro) or the nuts (almonds or walnuts instead of pine nuts), it can be made in lots of creative ways.

But it's always packed with nutrients.  Like the B vitamins and phytonutrients in green leafies, the anti-oxidant (anti-inflammatory) properties of garlic and olive oil, and increased alkalinity from fresh lemon.

The added spinach in my version also gives the best food source of CoQ10, which works for the body's energy metabolism (think Popeye!) especially for the heart, lungs, and kidneys.  It's also an all-around anti-oxidant as well. For this reason alone (the CoQ10), I always keep a box of organic baby spinach washed and ready to eat in the fridge.

Probably most important is the taste really hits the spot!  And with Herculean versatility, spices up anything from crackers to pasta to a french omelette.  Did I mention it takes about 2 minutes to make?