I love chia seeds for many reasons. First, they are a staple that are easy to store, they are easy to prepare and they are delicious! I almost always have black chia seeds in my cupboard. :) My kids have grown up with chia seeds— Bubby/EE/my older in his banana shakes and Moses my younger loves chia pudding.

Speaking of which: I love chia pudding in the summer— I eat it almost daily! Lately, I’ve also been loving this banana chia seed parfait recipe. I have even been packing these in my little parfait containers for our beach picnics. This recipe is healthy, delicious, and so easy to make. (Only 3 ingredients— plus the bananas for topping!)

Most parfaits are made with yogurt and contain dairy, as well as so much extra sugar. This is a snack (or dessert) that you can feel good about enjoying, and feel even better after! :)

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Chia Seeds: Pint-Sized Powerhouses

Chia seeds contain complete protein, healthy fats and lots of vital minerals, and the soluble and insoluble fiber are great for digestion. When you consume chia seeds after hydrating them in a liquid, they are also detoxifying.

Chia seeds are also an excellent source of plant-based omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Because they’re so nutrient-rich and filling, they can help keep you on track with a healthy diet.

It’s not just the seeds that contain all these health benefits. Chia seed gel contains all these benefits and is an equally versatile ingredient for so many recipes! I especially like them in smoothies, chia seed pudding, and a good chia parfait like this one, but you can also use chia seed gel as a plant-based egg substitute in baked goods.

Simply mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds into 2.5 tablespoons of water, and wait a few minutes for the gel to form. And voila, a vegan egg substitute that’s kind to your body!

Creamy Coconut Milk

Not all non-dairy milk is good for you— I avoid soy milk at all costs!

That’s why I like sticking to almond milk and coconut milk when I’m in the kitchen.

Coconut milk comes from the white flesh of brown coconuts, giving it a rich and creamy texture. (Not to be confused with coconut water, which comes from green coconuts, or coconut cream, the solids found in coconut milk.)

Coconut milk is an excellent source of medium-chain triglycerides, which can help you feel fuller longer and help promote healthy weight loss.

Lauric acid, an antioxidant found in coconut milk may also help protect your heart health and prevent strokes and heart disease. Lauric acid also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent you from getting sick. Coconut milk also contains antioxidants called phenols that can help protect your body’s proteins, lipids, and DNA from damage from oxidative stress.

Because of its high calorie and saturated fat content, make sure to enjoy coconut milk in moderation. :)

Bountiful Bananas

Bananas may be nature’s most perfect food. Bananas are complex carbohydrates, which means they provide you with quick-acting, long-term energy throughout the day.

Bananas are also rich in potassium, a vital mineral for healthy muscles and digestion. They’re also a good source of vitamins A, B, C, E, and K. Bananas are also a good source of folic acid for red blood cell formation. (Folic acid is especially important during pregnancy too!)

Bananas are also amazing for your gut health because they’re a good source of fiber and natural enzymes that help boost healthy digestion.

Everybody Loves Parfaits!

Parfaits are so often made with ingredients that don’t nourish your body, but they can be a truly refreshing and healthy snack when made with ingredients that are kind to your body.

I love this easy banana chia seed parfait, and so do my boys! They’re amazing for picnics and healthy snacks, and I love knowing that this satisfying snack is packed with amazing nutrients, digestion-boosting fiber, and just the right amount of sweetness.

If you make this recipe, tag me on Instagram so I can see! Make sure to pin it to your Pinterest board for your dessert-loving family and friends too. :)

All my love,

More Amazing Recipes Featuring Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in so many kinds of dishes. Here are 5 more of my favorite recipes featuring these small but mighty seeds!

• Goji Chia Seed Smoothie
• Raw Chia Seed Beauty Bars
• Chocolatey Banana Chia Pudding
• Raw Energy Seed Bites
• Green Chia & Moringa Smoothie Bowl