Recipes

Cooking can sometimes feel like a chore. It doesn’t have to be, though! With a few simple tips, you can add some excitement to your cooking routine and make it more enjoyable. The following blog will discuss some easy ways to spice up your cooking. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, these tips will help you create delicious and exciting meals.

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1) Use Fresh And Seasonal Ingredients

One easy way to make your meals more exciting is to use fresh and seasonal ingredients. Seasonal produce is not only more affordable, but it also tastes better. When you use fresh ingredients, you can really taste the difference in your food. Seasonal fruits and vegetables can be found at your local farmers’ market or grocery store.

Not sure what to do with all of that produce? Plenty of recipes are available online or in cookbooks that utilize seasonal ingredients. You can also get creative and come up with your own dishes! If you’re using fresh ingredients, they will speak for themselves, and you won’t need to add anything else in spices or seasoning.

You can also buy pre-cut fruits and vegetables if you’re short on time. This is a great way to get your daily dose of fruits and veggies without doing any prep work. Just make sure to wash them before you eat or cook with them.

2) Get Creative With Your Recipes

One of the best ways to spice up your cooking is to be creative with your recipes. Instead of following a recipe to the letter, add your own personal touches. This could mean swapping out ingredients, changing the order of steps, or adding extra seasoning. Be creative and experiment – you may just come up with a new favorite dish!

Another easy way to add some excitement to your cooking is to try out new cuisines. If you’re stuck in a culinary rut, branch out and try making dishes from different cultures. Not only will this give you some new flavors to work with, but it can also be a fun learning experience. There are plenty of resources available online and in cookbooks if you need some inspiration.

So, next time you’re in the kitchen, don’t be afraid to experiment and get creative. With these easy tips, you’re sure to spice up your cooking in no time!

3) Add Some Heat

One way to instantly add flavor to any dish is by adding a little bit of heat. This can be done in several ways, such as using hot peppers, crushed red pepper flakes, or even just some black pepper. If you really want to spice things up, try adding a fiery spice like cayenne pepper or habanero chili powder. Just remember to use these ingredients sparingly, as a little goes a long way when it comes to adding heat. By carefully incorporating some heat into your dishes, you can take them from bland to bold in no time at all.

4) Use Herbs And Spices

One way to immediately improve your easy gobi Manchurian is to incorporate more herbs and spices. This will give your food more flavor and depth. When using dried herbs, remember that a little goes a long way since they are more potent than fresh. Start by adding just a pinch or two, and then taste before adding any more. With fresh herbs, you can use a bit more since they are not as strong.

Simply chop them up and add them to your dish during cooking or sprinkle them on top as a garnish. Some great herbs to use in cooking include basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, sage, and cilantro. As for spices, some of our favorites are paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to find what you like best.

5) Cook With Wine

Wine can be a great addition to many different dishes. It can help to enhance the flavor of food and make it more complex. When cooking with wine, be sure to use a variety that you enjoy drinking. This will ensure that your dish tastes good and is also enjoyable to drink. Red wines are typically used for heartier dishes, while white wines are often used for lighter fare. When adding wine to a dish, be sure to add it early on in the cooking process so that the alcohol has time to cook off.

In conclusion, there are many easy ways to spice up your cooking. By being creative with your recipes, adding some heat, using herbs and spices, and cooking with wine, you can take your dishes from ordinary to extraordinary. So next time you’re in the kitchen, don’t be afraid to experiment!

When it comes to quick and easy cooking, the microwave is king. Whether you’re whipping up a last-minute meal or reheating leftovers, there’s no denying that this handy appliance can make your life a whole lot easier.

But what about those times when you want to make something a little more special than your average microwaved meal? Believe it or not, plenty of delicious dishes can be made right in your microwave!

Here Are A Few Dishes That Can Be Prepared In The Microwave:

Pizza

Pizza is one of the most popular dishes that can be made in the microwave. Just pop a frozen pizza into the microwave, and you’ll have a hot, cheesy meal in no time. But, of course, you can also make your own pizza dough and toppings and cook it in the microwave for a fresh and delicious pizza.

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Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is another classic dish that can be easily made in the microwave. Just cook the macaroni noodles according to package instructions and then mix in some shredded cheese and milk. Microwave for a few minutes until the cheese is melted, and enjoy.

Steamed Vegetables

Steamed vegetables are a healthy and delicious option that can be made in the microwave. Just add your favorite vegetables to a microwave-safe dish, add some water, and microwave for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Potato Chips

Potato chips are another popular snack that can be made in the microwave. Simply place some potato chips on a paper towel and microwave for a few minutes until they’re crispy. You can also make sweet potato chips in the microwave by following the same method.

Chocolate Cake

Chocolate cake is a delicious dessert that can be made in the microwave. Just mix together some chocolate cake mix, eggs, oil, and water and microwave for a few minutes until the cake is cooked through. Top with frosting or chocolate sauce, and enjoy.

Rice

Rice is a versatile dish that can be made in the microwave. Just add water and rice to a microwave-safe dish and cook for the recommended time. You can also add vegetables, proteins, or other flavors to your rice for a more complete meal.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a healthy and filling breakfast option that can be made in the microwave. Just add oats, water, milk, and any desired toppings to a microwave-safe bowl and cook for the recommended time. Top with fruit, nuts, or honey, and enjoy.

Microwave Corn On The Cob

Corn on the cob is a staple of summertime cookouts, but did you know that it can also be made in the microwave? Just place the corn on the cob cooking in a microwave-safe dish, add water, and microwave for a few minutes until the corn is cooked. You can also add butter, salt, and pepper for extra flavor.

Pancakes

Pancakes are another great breakfast option that can be made in the microwave. Just mix together pancake batter according to recipe instructions and pour it into a microwave-safe dish. Microwave for a few minutes until the pancakes are cooked through. Serve with butter and syrup, and enjoy.

Eggs

Eggs are a protein-packed breakfast option that can be made in the microwave. Just scramble some eggs in a microwave-safe bowl and cook for a minute or two until they’re desired consistency. Then, add in some cheese, ham, or vegetables for a more complete meal.

Tomatoes are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. They add flavor, texture, and color to your cooking while also adding nutritional value. That is why they should be an integral part of any well-rounded diet. In this blog post, we will explore four recipes that highlight the versatility of tomatoes by using them in everyday cooking:

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1. Tomato Salsa

Tomato salsa is a healthy and low-carb snack that can be whipped up in minutes. It requires no cooking, making it an ideal meal for those busy nights when you don’t have time to prepare dinner before heading out the door. The ingredients required are:

• Four fresh tomatoes, finely chopped.
• One onion, finely chopped.
• Two jalapenos peppers (more if desired), finely diced.
• Three cloves of garlic, minced or pressed through a garlic press.
• One half cup cilantro leaves ripped from stems with your fingers then coarsely chopped/crushed by your palms over the sink. We recommend using rubber gloves while preparing this dish as jalapeno juice will sting any open wounds.
• One half cup lime juice.
• Two tsp salt, or to taste.

In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients and let them sit in your refrigerator for at least an hour before serving so that flavors can develop. This recipe is also delicious when paired with tortilla chips!

2. Tomato and Cucumber Salad

Tomato and cucumbers are two of the most popular fresh vegetables that can be found year-round. They pair together beautifully in salads or as side dishes to many different meals. The ingredients required for this recipe include:

• Two large tomatoes, chopped.
• One English hothouse cucumber (or three regular pickling cucumbers).
• Unpeeled, seeded, and cut into half-moons.
• One cup red onion, peeled and minced.
• Two tablespoons of olive oil extra virgin variety.
• Three tablespoons of lemon juice freshly squeezed.
• One teaspoon sugar one-quarter tsp.
• Salt ground black pepper to taste optional garnishes.

Cilantro leaves snipped with kitchen shears then coarsely chopped by your palms over the sink OR finely diced jalapeno peppers combine all ingredients except optional garnishes in a large bowl. Mix well and let sit for at least 20 minutes before serving so that flavors can develop.

3. Tomato Puree

Tomato puree is an essential ingredient for many different dishes. It can be used as a sauce or soup base, added to chili, pasta sauces, and more! The components required for this recipe include:

• Two pounds (four large) ripe tomatoes cut into chunks without peeling.
• One clove of garlic peeled but left whole.
• Three tablespoons extra virgin olive oil.
• One teaspoon of thyme leaves snipped with kitchen shears, then coarsely chopped by your palms over the sink.
• OR fresh basil leaves ripped from stems with your fingers then coarsely chopped/crushed by your palms over the sink.

Place all of the above except any optional garnish in a medium pot set on high heat until boiling. Reduce heat so that the mixture simmers. Cook for about one hour, occasionally stirring until liquid is reduced by half or more and tomatoes are super soft. Let cool before pureeing with an immersion blender until smooth. If you do not have an immersion blender, transfer the tomato mixture to a food processor or regular blender and blend until smooth. You can add this puree to your tomato soup recipe and other dishes for the most incredible results. 

4. Tomato Paste for Pasta

Tomato paste is a quick and easy way to add flavor to any pasta dish. It’s also inexpensive, which makes it an excellent replacement for canned tomato sauce, in most words. The ingredients required for this recipe include:

• Two (six-ounce) cans of ground tomatoes
• One teaspoon of sugar.
• One large onion, cut into four pieces; no need to peel!
• One carrot peeled but left whole.
• Three tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil extra virgin variety.
• Salt fresh ground black pepper.
• Two cloves garlic minced/pressed through a garlic press.
• One half cup red wine dry vermouth OR water If you do not have the time or patience to make your tomato paste from scratch using fresh tomatoes.

In a large pot, add all ingredients except wine and stir well to combine. Then bring the mixture to a simmer on medium-high heat for about one hour, occasionally stirring until liquid is reduced by half or more and sauce has thickened considerably. Stir in wine and cook for about an additional 30 minutes.

These are four recipes in which you can use tomatoes to add flavor or as a sauce base. Tomatoes pair well with many different ingredients, and they’re easy to prepare! Try these recipes out today for the best results!

Disclosure: This post was made possible by MomsMeet.com and Flavor Your Life Campaign. I was compensated for my participation in this campaign, but all opinions are 100% mine. Read full Disclosure Policy here. 

If you’re anything like me, then olive oil is a staple in your home pantry. My love of olive oil stems from my childhood growing up along the shore in South Jersey. I lived in a very diverse multi-cultural neighborhood full of rich, vibrant Italian, Greek, Eastern European, and Jewish cultures. Where around suppertime each night the sweet smell of European olive oil perfumed our street by way of each family’s distinct culinary traditions. Making European olive oil one of my sweetest childhood memories. Which is why I stock my kitchen with quality European olive oil.

I use European olive oil daily in a variety of ways. From dips to salad dressings, it’s my go-to oil at home. And no matter how I use it one thing’s for sure- when it comes to olive oil quality is everything. My Grandmother would always make a point of using olive oil in most of her cooking and now I do the same. One of my favorite treats, a fresh baguette and olive oil for dipping. Nothing is better, friends!

Recently I was given the opportunity to sample the Flavor Your Life European Olive Oil. This campaign, supported by the European Union, is dedicated to providing North American consumers with the latest information about European extra virgin olive oil and to educate consumers of the lasting health benefits that European olive oil provides. As I mentioned earlier, quality is what olive oil is all about. I loved the flavor of this oil and it definitely made a difference when cooking with it.

As I mentioned earlier, when choosing olive oil for your family at home, quality is key. So here are a few key points to consider about olive oil before your next purchase.

European Olive Oil facts:

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is the freshly pressed juice of olives.
• It is cold-pressed, meaning it is pressed without heat or chemicals.
• Quality olive oil must contain acidity levels below 0.8% or virtually free of acidity.
• This has nothing to do with the pH or taste, but the fatty inner acids.
• Higher levels of acids indicate improper production and product rancidity.
• Proper peroxide value must be below 20 milliequivalents of oxygen/kilo of oil, which indicates the amount of oxidation or aging that’s occurred.
• Aging olive oil can be measured in varying degrees that olives are exposed to oxygen, light, and heat.

Why Choose European olive oil

• The olive tree has been revered in Europe since Antiquity.
• For thousands of years, olive growers have cultivated hundreds of varieties of olive trees (cultivars), optimizing each cultivation for different environment conditions and terrains to produce the most delicious yields possible.
• This resulted in a centuries-old pact between olive growers and consumers the world over. 
• The greatest impact on olive oil taste is the type of olive tree (cultivar), region the olive is grown (which affects climate and soil), and the time of harvest.
• Europe offers a vast array of avor pro less, so keep a variety of oils in your pantry for different occasions.
• Olives are often harvested early in the season, typically in late August (varies by region).
• Olives are harvested when they are under-ripe. Which produces oils that are greener, more bitter and pungent.
• Olives harvested at the end of the season, late November into December, are over-ripe and tend to taste milder.

How I love to use European olive oil at home

One of my favorite ways to use olive at home is by brushing fresh vegetables with European olive oil and then grilling the vegetables. I use these vegetables to make pressed paninis, as healthy chip alternatives to pair with hummus, as entrees for quick dinners on Meatless Mondays, or cut up and added to summer jar salads. If I’m feeling super fancy, I’ll pour some into a little dish with some salt, pepper and maybe a little Parmesan cheese to dip my vegetables! So good and so simple.

I cannot speak highly enough of European olive oil. Each time I’ve tried my sample in recent summer fare, I’m taken back to my year studying abroad in Paris, France and my semester abroad with my former exchange family in Saint-Lô, France. Places where I sampled some of my favorite olive oil-infused dishes! I’m also reminded of my month-long trip to Tuscany where I was able to taste all the different olive oils from the region, oils that were nothing short of divine. 

Tips for Cooking with and Storing Olive Oil

During the course of this review, I learned several things including how to use a variety of olive oils. I have always just used the at-hand store oils, but now I’d like to seek out different types to enhance the food we cook.

Despite using olive oil all the time, little did I know that we were storing it incorrectly? The Flavor Your Life website says that olive oil should be stored in a cool, dark place. Fifty-seven degrees is optimal. In addition, you’re not supposed to store the oil by the stove, which is exactly where we keep it.  This is why we will be storing our olive oil moving forward in a more conducive location. Now, if you’d like to learn more about European Extra Virgin Olive Oil as well as the various types available, be sure to check out the Flavor Your Life website.

With each bite, I’m reminded of how European olive oil varies by region as well. That Spanish extra virgin olive oil, golden yellow oil with a fruity flavor that lends itself well to tapas. Or the mild natural taste of the French varieties as well as the bold taste of Italian varieties, oils are known for their earthy, herbal aroma and rich grass-rich flavor. Then there is my favorite olive oil, Greek olive oil, a bold, seasoned oil that’s delicious in every conceivable way. As you can see, the sky is the limit in terms, in terms of the flavor that European Extra Virgin Olive Oil brings to the table. 

As you can see, the sky is the limit when it comes to dishes that can be made with the rich, bold, delectable taste of  European olive oil. Whatever you cook, bake, grill, or saute, just a humble drizzle European olive oil can turn dinners into memories. So, I encourage you all to try European olive oil in your own home.

You can also stay connected with the Flavor Your Life campaign on Facebook and Twitter, and if you’d like to see my recipe for European olive oil grilled vegetables below as well! 

So now friends, I have to ask, how will you be using European olive oil in your own kitchens this season? I’d love to hear about it below! 

Fall European Olive Oil Infused Grilled Vegetables

2017-06-10 20:26:47

Serves 4

Fall European Olive Oil Infused Grilled Vegetables are a super simple meal that can be used for easy weeknight meals to chip alternatives to dips. You're sure to love these veggie staples!

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Prep Time

20 min

Cook Time

10 min

Total Time

30 min

Prep Time

20 min

Cook Time

10 min

Total Time

30 min

Ingredients

1. 3 red bell peppers, seeded and halved
2. 3 yellow squash, sliced lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick slices
3. 3 zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick rectangles
4. 3 eggplants, sliced lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick rectangles
5. 12 Cremini mushrooms
6. 2 whole yellow or green tomatoes
7. 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed f woody ends
8. 1 turnip root, cut into wedges
9. 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil
10. Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
11. 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
12. 2 garlic cloves, minced
13. 1 teaspoon fresh organic chopped parsley
14. 1 teaspoon fresh organic chopped basil
15. 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped rosemary

Instructions

1. Prep all vegetales and set aside.
2. Place a grill pan over medium-high heat
3. Brush the vegetables with 1/4 cup of the oil to coat lightly
4. Sprinkle the vegetables with salt and pepper
5. grill the vegetables until tender and lightly charred all over
6. Once cooked, arrange the vegetables on a platter
7. Meanwhile, whisk the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, salt and pepper. balsamic vinegar, garlic, parsley, basil, and rosemary in a small bowl to blend.
8. Drizzle the herb mixture over the vegetables.
9. Serve the vegetables warm.
10. Enjoy!

Quick Tips

1. Grill times: You will need to grill bell peppers for about 8 to 10 minutes; 7 minutes for the yellow squash, zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms; 4 minutes for the asparagus and green onions
2. Grill marks: The key to getting photo-ready great grill marks is to not shift the vegetables while on the hot grill.

The LadyPrefers2Save https://theladyprefers2save.com/

Disclosure: I received several products to try from Sunbutter and MomsMeet.com. All opinions are my own.

Did you know, according to the Centers for Disease Control, since 2007 an estimated 3 million school-aged children have been diagnosed with nut-related food allergies? A number that exponentially rises with each passing school year.

While there are many theories as to why so many children have feverishly developed nut allergies in recent decades modern science doesn’t conclusively know for sure why. And with nut-induced allergic reactions ranging from mild skin-related allergies to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that can include vomiting, difficulty breathing, and in extreme cases, death, nut allergies are no longer isolated health concerns but have become district-wide school issues.

To complicate matters, there is no way to predict which children with nut-allergies will be at risk for anaphylaxis. As a child doesn’t need to consume nut-laden foods to trigger an anaphylactic reaction. The mere contact with another child that has been exposed to an allergen can trigger an attack. Making childhood nut-allergies a very serious matter each back-to-school season!

Because of this information and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which grants every child in this country the right to medical accommodation in any institution that receives federal funding, including public schools. Which is why so many schools have become nut-free institutions. In fact, over 10,000 public, charter, and private schools across the country are currently nut-free schools!

While banning peanut butter is not a fool-proof endeavor by any means, it is an excellent way to help contain nut products from children with severe allergies at school. Which brings me to a greater point. When it comes to school lunches, have you ever met a child who doesn’t want to eat the ubiquitous pb&j? No one in my family for sure! Fortunately, there are alternative parents can purchase to give their children yummy lunches will not putting other children in danger, such as SunButter products.

The SunButter line of products is a nut-free, all-natural, roasted sunflower seed alternative to peanut butter which is also vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, cruelty-free, certified kosher. Sun Butter is also a more nutrient-rich product, containing seven grams of protein per serving and more vitamins and minerals than nut butter alone. Sun Butter products are also free from all of the top eight food allergens., making them lactose, egg, seafood, fish, nut, wheat, soy, and legume-free!

Another reason I love SunButter products? They are sustainably produced. Compared to almonds, which do not only require irrigation but upwards of 400 gallons of water to produce a single jar 16-ounce of almond butter, SunButter products are produced in a region of the country where no irrigation is needed. Making each 16-ounce jar a more sustainable, zero-waste product.

As a family, we had the pleasure of trying several SunButter jars recently including the 16-ounce jars of the creamy, natural, natural crunch, organic, no-sugar-added, and the 6-count box of 1.5-ounce creamy snack cups. Priced at only $5.99 a container, this makes SunButter perfect for on-the-go errands, playdates, and even after-practice snacks!

I love that SunButter has the same consistency as convention peanut butter, just a bit saltier. Giving SunButter a sweet and salty taste that I really enjoyed. I’ve also made a habit of keeping the snack cups in my gym bag for post-workout or when out and about and need a snack before shopping for groceries!

I’ve also been able to find several other ways to use Sun Butter products at home including several family favorite meals, including Spicy Thai Noodles with SunButter Sauce! A simple, delicious dish that tastes great, and makes for an awesome Meatless Monday meal when topped with your favorite garnish, including Thai basil, green onions, and even peanuts, for a more traditional flare!

I love how creamy SunButter makes this sauce! I could also see using this sauce on other dishes such as skewered chicken kabobs, over rice noodles, in stir-frys, or as a sweet and savory dressing for fish or tofu tacos, lettuce wraps, and noodle bowls too!

The best part? I make this sauce fresh each time in a blender and bring it up to temperature by adding it cooked noodles. While my family loves making this dish with Udon noodles, you could, of course, use rice noodles, rice, or quinoa too!

This sauce can also be made several days in advance. Making this 20-minute meal one of the easiest weekday dinners you can make at home this busy back-to-school season at home. Be sure to pin this recipe, you’ll be glad you did!

So, friends, I encourage you to check out SunButter products. Not just your kiddos lunches this back-to-school season but for fun dishes, you can make at home, such as Spicy Thai Noodles with Sun Butter Sauce! If you’re interested in checking out sun Butter products, click here to find out where Sun Butter products are sold in your neck of the woods. You can also download their app for recipes and tips for living a more vibrant, nut-free life at home this season!

Now I have to ask, have you tried Sun Butter products or do you have favorite pb&j or other Meatless Monday meal suggestions, I’d love to hear about them below!

SunButter Spicy Thai Sauce & Noodles

2017-08-09 09:39:59

Serves 4

This sauce is an allergy-friendly version of the conventional Thai Peanut Sauce and Noodles. Made with SunButter, these noodles and sauce have a fresh, vibrant taste that’s bursting with tangy, spicy flavor. the best part? This sauce is made in a blender! No pans needed!

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Prep Time

10 min

Cook Time

10 min

Total Time

20 min

Prep Time

10 min

Cook Time

10 min

Total Time

20 min

Ingredients

1. 1 Tablespoon Organic Ginger, peeled and minced
2. 2 Tablespoons Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce
3. 1 teaspoon (packed) light brown sugar
4. 1/4 -1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
5. 1 Tablespoon Tahini Sauce
6. 2 Tablespoons olive oil split
7. 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
8. 4 Cloves Garlic, minced
9. 1/4 Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
10. 1/4 Teaspoon Smoked Hungarian Paprika
11. 1/2 Tablespoon Himalayan Pink Salt
12. 1 Teaspoon Curry Powder
13. 1 Teaspoon Turmeric Powder
14. 1 Cup SunButter (creamy or chunky)
15. 1 Cup Organic Coconut Milk
16. 1 Tablespoon. low-sodium soy sauce
17. 1 1/2 Tablespoons Organic Coconut Sugar
18. 16-Ounces Organic Udon Noodles (or noodles of choice)
19. 8 1/3 Cups Filtered Water

Instructions

1. With your blender motor running, add your peeled ginger and garlic cloves into your blender. Blend until finely minced.
2. Add all remaining sauce ingredients and 1/3 cup water and blend. Add more water by tablespoonfuls if needed to thin your sauce until its smooth and creamy.
3. Meanwhile, add 8 cups filtered water to a pot along with 1/4 teaspoon Himalayan Pink Salt. Bring to a boil.
4. Add your noodles of choice and cook 8-10 minutes until tender.
5. Drain your pasta and add to a large serving bowl.
6. When ready to serve, add your sauce to your noodles to heat through.
7. Garnish accordingly. My family loves using sauteed mushrooms, Thai basil, lettuce, red bell peppers, and pine nuts.

Notes

1. This Sun Butter sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead. Once cooked, transfer to a small bowl, cover, and chill. Bring your sauce back to temperature by letting your sauce sit on your counter for 30-minutes after being chilled then added to your cooked noodles to fully reheat. Enjoy!

By Nicole Roberts

The LadyPrefers2Save https://theladyprefers2save.com/

Please note, this post is sponsored by MomsMeet.com. All opinions expressed are my own. Thank you.

Do you ever need a little pick-me-up during the day besides coffee? Then let me introduce you to one of my favorite mid-day snacks- Chocolate Chai Energy Bites!

Trust me. You’re going to want to try these energy bites pronto. They are full of yummy, plant-based goodness and feature one of my favorite vegetarian staples, Once Again Nut Butter.

This is one of my go-to nut-based butters as it is Certified Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten-Free, and Fair Trade Certified. It is also high in protein, fiber, has fewer calories and
less saturated fat than the leading hazelnut spread and is made without artificial flavors, colors or hydrogenated oils.

Once Again Nut Butter’s Amoré Hazelnut Spread is the first in the company’s line of specialty products, introduced just this year featuring Rocky Raccoon, from the Beatles song of the same name. And who doesn’t like a good piece of rock trivia, you know?

A few things I really love about this brand is that Once Again Nut Butter is an employee-owned business located in upstate New York that has been manufacturing nut butter, seed jars of butter, and honey since 1976. Their products are sustainably made and sourced, this gourmet dessert butter is healthier than other dessert toppings. Moreover, their signature product, the Once Again Organic Amore Almond Spread with Milk Chocolate retails for $9.99. Additional products, including sunflower, almond, cashew, and peanut butter, in both chunky and creamy varieties alike, can be found in your local markets too! To find this brand in your area, click here.

As I have a huge weakness for anything sweet, and knowing that this spread is healthier for them and better for the communities that Amores ingredients are sourced from, this makes me feel good about giving this to my family. Which is why I knew it would be perfect for making Chocolate Chai Energy Bites!

This snack features some of that delicious chocolate spread from Once Again Amore Nut Butter and are packed with whole ingredients like agave, oats, coconut, nuts, chia seeds, and my secret ingredient, organic chai tea! The best part? They can literally be whipped up with your food processor in minutes!

I like to form mine into little 1-inch balls, but feel free to portion out whatever size you’d like to enjoy for breakfast, dessert, or an extra boost of energy before a workout. My friends and I all love them, and I’m pretty sure you will too!

To make this recipe, simply combine all ingredients together in a food processor and pulse until combined. Cover mixture and transfer to the refrigerator, and let cool for about 30-60 minutes. This will slightly harden the mixture and make it easier to form into balls.

When the mixture is cool, remove and roll into balls of your desired size. Mine were about 1-inch in diameter. Enjoy immediately, or refrigerate in a covered container for up to a month.

Friends, if you are looking for a fun, easy-to-make snack for you and the kiddos, be sure to try these Chocolate Chai Energy Bites. You’ll also want to pick up a jar of Once Again Nut Butter Amoré Hazelnut Spread the next time you are in-store at your local grocery store!

Now I want to ask, do you love energy bites? Are you looking forward to trying Once Again Nut Butter Amoré Hazelnut Spread? Let me know your thoughts below!

Connect with Once Again Nut Butter Online:

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