Cherry Chocolate Chai Smoothie | Swirls and Spice

Cherry Chocolate Chai Smoothie

Cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger whirl together with the cherries, cocoa and coconut to yield a deliciously satisfying smoothie that’s practically a meal on its own. Now I finally have a workout routine to go along with all the protein smoothies I’ve been enjoying!  After reading about how to raise healthy daughters, I recognized that I need to do a better job of leading by example and … Continue reading Cherry Chocolate Chai Smoothie

Apricot Oatmeal Cookies {Gluten Free} | Swirls and Spice

Apricot Almond Oatmeal Cookies {Gluten-Free}

As a lifelong chewy oatmeal cookie fan, these new cookies have me convinced that apricots are amazing in a cookie.  And when you toss crunchy almonds into the mix?  Triple win. If offered a choice between a chocolate chip cookie and an oatmeal cookie, I will pick the oatmeal every time.  Unless it’s a chocolate chip oatmeal cookie.  That just doesn’t sit right with me.  I’ll take fruit with my … Continue reading Apricot Almond Oatmeal Cookies {Gluten-Free}

Grapefruit Gelatin Panna Cotta Cups | Swirls and Spice

Grapefruit Coconut Panna Cotta

Grapefruit season is in full swing; the latest fruit I sampled was at its prime, practically bursting with juicy sweetness!  The tangy citrus flavors pair perfectly with coconut panna cotta in this healthy gelatin dessert. For a middle of winter pick-me-up, fresh citrus fruit is an optimum choice.  The scent of citrus may improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety.  So save the rind and inhale deeply as you make … Continue reading Grapefruit Coconut Panna Cotta

Peanut Butter Pulse Protein Smoothie | Swirls and Spice

Peanut Butter Pulse Protein Smoothie

I’ve found the perfect breakfast and post-workout smoothie!  No expensive whey protein or other powder is required, thanks to the yellow split peas contained within. Yellow split peas  are a mild-tasting type of pulse that helps boost the protein and fiber in a super healthy way. This week’s Pulse Pledge challenge is to include pulses for breakfast.  And this smoothie is such an easy, delicious way to … Continue reading Peanut Butter Pulse Protein Smoothie

Tricolor Gelatin Parfaits with Pineapple and Blueberry

Gelled desserts deserve to make a comeback.  Fabulous with fruit, gelatin is also good for joint health and aids digestion.  So you can celebrate naturally with lime, blueberry, and pineapple in this refreshing mini dessert. Three Kings Day or Epiphany is celebrated this week, and hidden in one of the cups is a pistachio instead of a baby.  Make these as a healthier alternative to a King Cake.  The colors … Continue reading Tricolor Gelatin Parfaits with Pineapple and Blueberry

Pomegranate and Pistachio Pudding Parfaits

Creamy coconut pudding with a hint of lime is layered with ruby red pomegranate seeds and pistachio nuts in this dreamy holiday dessert.  Easily make it ahead of time and serve with a smile. Mini desserts are for those of us who believe that everything can be enjoyed in moderation. Or perhaps you are a part of the crowd who finds tiny things enchanting.  Not only are miniature desserts adorable, I … Continue reading Pomegranate and Pistachio Pudding Parfaits