Vegan – Healthy Grocery Girl https://healthygrocerygirl.com Thu, 09 May 2024 23:31:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.9 https://healthygrocerygirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/cropped-hgg_logo-black-32x32.png Vegan – Healthy Grocery Girl https://healthygrocerygirl.com 32 32 The BEST Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies! https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2024/05/09/the-best-gluten-free-chocolate-chip-cookies/ Thu, 09 May 2024 23:02:09 +0000 https://healthygrocerygirl.com/?p=116136 A healthy treat made with simple ingredients, these gluten-free chocolate chip cookies make the perfect afternoon snack!

These are the BEST gluten-free chocolate chip cookies in my opinion! They are soft, generous with chocolate chips and are packed with wholesome ingredients! These cookies just hit the spot when you want a good chocolate chip cookie that aligns with your goals of wholesome eating!

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes! This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free and vegan!  

What can I use to substitute the banana, if I don’t like bananas?

Unfortunately, I have not tried this recipe with another fruit or vegetable in place of the banana and therefore I could not guarantee a recommendation that would yield an equally satisfying result in test and texture. Swaps that come to mind however that may work include cooked sweet potato, cooked pumpkin and possibly applesauce! If using applesauce I would omit the water. 

What gluten-free flour can I use to substitute the oat flour? 

Gluten-free flours vary greatly in the end result when it comes to baking. This is due to the fact that gluten-free flours absorb liquid at different capacities which can yield either a crumbly dry texture or gummy texture. Therefore, most gluten-free flour swaps are not an equal one cup to one cup exchange. The only gluten-free flour that I would recommend is almond flour (which will yield a more dense and dry texture) or a gluten-free flour baking mix such as this one. 

What are the health benefits of oats?

I love using oats for baking because they add fiber, protein and a boost of vitamins and minerals. Oats are also affordable and versatile! By simply blending oats into a powder, you can create oat flour. Leave the oats whole and you can make oatmeal, overnight oats, energy bites, energy bars and so much more. Studies show that regular consumption of oats may support weight loss, better blood sugar levels and support heart health. A half a cup of oats contains 5.3 grams of protein, 4 grams of fiber as well as a variety of vitamins and minerals such as manganese, phosphorus, copper, iron, zinc, folate, vitamin B1, vitamin B5 as well as calcium and potassium. 

Do oats contain Glyphosate?

Glyphosate is an herbicide used to kill weeds. Glyphosate residues have been found on some foods such as cereals and grains, including oats. For those concerned about glyphosate residues related to oats, choosing an Organic oat or even better an Organic oat that is certified Glyphosate-free such as this one. 

Can I use a different sweetener than maple syrup?

I LOVE using maple syrup in my recipes as a sweetener because it provides a boost of vitamins and minerals, whereas traditional white granulated sugar is void of nutrition. Maple syrup also provides a rich flavor profile! You could swap the maple syrup for granulated sugar although this would yield a crispier cookie versus a soft cookie. 

Are cookies really healthy?

These cookies are homemade and made with a variety of real, whole foods that are packed with protein, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Traditional store-bought cookies are highly processed and often lacking in fiber or any nutritional value. In my opinion, this is a GREAT option for a decadent treat that is still nourishing for the body! As someone who likes to eat cookies regularly, I love making these cookies for myself and for my husband and children knowing that they are enjoying a treat and nourishing their body at the same time. 

How long do these cookies last?

Keep these cookies in an air-tight container in the refrigerator and enjoy them for 5 days. You can also store these cookies in the freezer and enjoy them within 3 months. Because these cookies do not contain preservatives I would not store them in the pantry or any warm environment, which could lend to mold growth. 

What bakeware do you use?

I love using a Silpat for baking cookies such as this one and the cooking sheet I have is this one!

Print

The BEST Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Servings 0

Ingredients

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 2 bananas
  • cup peanut butter
  • ¼ cup maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoon water
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds
  • cup chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Blend 2 cups of oats in a high-speed blender to create a fine powder, which is the flour for the recipe.
  • In a medium bowl mash 2 bananas until you create a smooth paste. Then add in all wet ingredients; the maple syrup, peanut butter, vanilla extract and water.
  • Add in salt, ground flaxseeds, cinnamon and oat flour and mix together well.
  • Lastly, fold in the chocolate chips. This recipe calls for ¼ cup of chocolate chips but truly, you should measure chocolate with your heart! Feel free to add more chocolate chips if desired.
  • Using a small ice-cream scoop or spoon dollop of even size batter onto a baking sheet lined with a silpat, parchment paper or lightly greased with coconut oil.
  • Bake cookies for 15 minutes and then let cool on a cooling rack.
  • Store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator and enjoy them for 5 days. You can also store these cookies in the freezer and enjoy them within 3 months. These cookies are delicious cold or you can simply reheat in the oven for 1-2 minutes if you prefer a gooey warm chocolate chip cookie.

More Healthy Recipes

For more healthy and delicious recipes, check out my cookbooks here!

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Mushroom Carnitas Tacos https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2023/06/28/mushroom-carnitas-tacos/ https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2023/06/28/mushroom-carnitas-tacos/#respond Wed, 28 Jun 2023 20:43:35 +0000 https://healthygrocerygirl.com/?p=112888 Mushrooms are a nutritious, fiber-rich fungi! Although mushrooms are technically fungi, they often are referred to and cooked like a vegetable. Mushrooms contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber and even protein.

One of my favorite ways to enjoy mushrooms is in these Mushroom Carnitas Tacos. Tacos are an easy, healthy dinner recipe and I also love that this plant-based dinner is also packed with flavor and fiber that keeps us feeling full.

How To Eat Mushrooms

Here are some additional ways in which we cook and enjoy mushrooms on a regular basis!

  • Tacos
  • Burritos
  • Soups
  • Sauces
  • Stir-Fry
  • On Pizza

Health Benefits of Mushrooms

  1. Gut Health! Mushrooms contain a type of carbohydrate known as polysaccharides which can stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut! 
  1. Support Immune Health: Mushrooms contain a variety of nutrients such as Selenium, Vitamin D and Vitamin B6. 
  1. Vitamin D: Mushrooms are the only produce that are a source of vitamin D! Vitamin D supports immune health and helps the body absorb calcium. 
  1. Support Cognitive Function: Lion’s Mane, Chaga and Reishi are 3 mushrooms known to support brain health!
  2. Mushrooms may give you energy! Mushrooms contain B-vitamins. B vitamins help the body break down and release energy from food.

How To Make Mushroom Carnitas Tacos

You’ll need 1 pound of oyster or shiitake mushrooms, I like a little of both! Slice the mushrooms into thin strips and then place in a bowl with oil and spices. Let marinate for 15 minutes. Then roast in the oven at 425 F for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Top with fresh lime juice and cilantro. Serve on warmed tortillas topped with black beans, a jicama, carrot and cabbage slaw and avocado!

How To Make Jicama, Carrot, Cabbage Slaw

To make the slaw, shred jicama, cabbage and carrots and add to a small bowl. Top with juice from one lime, fresh cilantro (chopped) and a pinch of salt. Toss and let marinate in the fridge.

Print

Mushroom “Carnitas” Tacos

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 2

Ingredients

Tacos

  • 4 tortillas
  • mushroom “carnitas” see below
  • 1/2 cup black beans
  • jicama slaw see below
  • 1/2 avocado

Mushroom "Carnitas"

  • 1 pound mushrooms – King Oyster and/or Shiitake
  • 3 limes
  • 1 navel orange
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh cilantro

Jicama Slaw

  • 1/2 cup shredded jicama
  • 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
  • 1 pinch sea salt

Instructions

Mushroom "Carnitas"

  • Juice the navel orange and 2 limes into a small bowl, add the oil and spices then whisk.
  • Slice mushrooms into strips. Add to a large bowl and toss with the marinade.
  • Let marinate in fridge for 15 minutes.
  • Lay on a baking sheet and roast at 425 F for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
  • Remove from the oven and top with lime juice and fresh cilantro.

Jicama Slaw

  • Shred the jicama, cabbage and carrots, add to a small bowl and add juice from one lime, fresh cilantro (chopped) and a pinch of salt.
  • Toss and let marinate in the fridge.

Tacos

  • Serve warmed tortillas topped with mushrooms, black beans, slaw and avocado!
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Parsnip Fries With Fry Spice Blend https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2023/04/10/parsnip-fries-with-fry-spice-blend/ https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2023/04/10/parsnip-fries-with-fry-spice-blend/#respond Mon, 10 Apr 2023 14:39:18 +0000 https://healthygrocerygirl.com/?p=112728 Have you ever eaten a Parsnip? Parsnips are a root vegetable related to carrot and parsley! It even looks like a carrot and has a sweet, earthy flavor. Let’s make some Parsnip fries!

What is a Parsnip?

Parsnips are a root vegetable that has been used in cooking globally for thousands of years. Parsnips are slightly sweet and nutty in flavor. They are related to other vegetables such as carrots and roots of parsley.

Parsnip fries on white plate with a small dish of ketchup

Health Benefits of Parsnip

Parsnips are packed with nutrition! They contain folate, vitamin K, vitamin C, antioxidants and fiber to support immune function and digestive health. Parsnips are also high in fiber, which can improve your digestive health and heart health. Tell me, would you give these parsnip fries a try?

How To Make Parsnip Fries

To make parsnip fries begin by preheating the oven to 425 Fahrenheit.

To make the fry spice blend add one teaspoon each of Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Oregano, Basil, Parsley, Salt and Black Pepper. Add all of the spices to a small jar, top with a lid and shake.

You will need 2-3 medium parsnips. Peel the parsnips, then slice into fry size pieces. Add to a large bowl, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of avocado oil and add a few generous sprinkles of fry-spice, then toss to coat.

Evenly spread out the parsnip fries on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, then flip and bake for another 10 minutes. Enjoy as is or dip in ketchup!

Parsnip fries on white plate with a small dish of ketchup
Print

Parsnip Fries

Servings 2

Ingredients

  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Onion powder
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1 tsp Oregano
  • 1 tsp Basil
  • 1 tsp Parsley
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black pepper
  • 3 medium Parsnips
  • 2 tbsp Avocado oil

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 425 Fahrenheit.
  • Add all of the spices to a small jar, top with a lid and shake.
  • Peel the parsnips, then slice into fry size pieces. Add to a large bowl, drizzle with avocado oil and add a few generous sprinkles of fry-spice, then toss to coat.
  • Evenly spread out on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, then flip and bake for another 10 minutes. Enjoy as is or dip in ketchup!

More Recipes Like This!

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Little Gem Salad with Dilly Ranch Dressing https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2023/03/15/little-gem-salad-with-dilly-ranch-dressing/ https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2023/03/15/little-gem-salad-with-dilly-ranch-dressing/#respond Wed, 15 Mar 2023 18:30:15 +0000 https://healthygrocerygirl.com/?p=112672 I love a good salad! This Little Gem Salad is crisp, refreshing, crunchy and drizzled with a creamy, dairy-free dressing that packs in the herbs! I’ve been enjoying this Little Gem Salad topped with roasted chickpeas or baked salmon for a boost of protein as a great lunch or dinner. While I write this blog post, Easter is right around the corner and this salad would also be a great Easter brunch side!

Little Gem Lettuce

Little gem lettuce is an English heirloom variety of romaine lettuce! It has a similar flavor profile and crunch to romaine while being smaller and in my opinion, more fun to eat!

How To Make This Vegan Dilly Ranch Dressing

I love this simple dairy-free and vegan ranch dressing recipe. This salad dressing is made with just a few simple ingredients, fresh herbs and is a great creamy dressing. I also love that this dressing is made from cashews which packs protein, fiber and healthy fats to this salad! To make this dairy-free ranch dressing you’ll add 1 cup of raw cashews to a container (I like to use a mason jar like this one) and fill with filtered water. Cover and place in the refrigerator to soak overnight. In the morning, drain the water from the cashews and rinse them. Add the soaked cashews into a blender along with 3/4 to 1 cup of fresh, filtered water – less if you prefer a thicker dressing and more if you need the consistency to be thinner. Then add the garlic powder, onion powder and lemon juice. Blend on high until you get a smooth creamy consistency. Next add the herbs, salt and pepper and blend in a few short pulses to incorporate the herbs.

Little Gem Salad

To a plate or bowl add your little gem lettuce (I like a few handfuls!) and top with slices of cucumber, radish, olives and a generous drizzle of dilly ranch dressing. Sprinkle with hemp seeds (I love these!) and fresh dill, chives and parsley. Enjoy!

Print

Little Gem Salad with Vegan Dilly Ranch Dressing

This salad makes 1 serving however, the dressing will make MULTIPLE servings!! Store the dressing in the refrigerator and enjoy for days on a salad or as a dip for fresh cut veggies!
Keyword salad, vegan ranch
Servings 1

Ingredients

Vegan Dilly Ranch Dressing

  • 1 cup raw cashews: soaked overnight then drained & rinsed
  • 3/4 – 1 cup filtered water
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 large lemon, juiced
  • 1/4 cup diced fresh chives
  • 1/4 cup diced fresh dill
  • 2 tbsp diced fresh parsley
  • 1/8 tsp sea salt
  • 1/8 tsp fresh ground black pepper

Little Gem Salad

  • 2-3 handfuls little gem lettuce
  • 1 cucumber
  • 4 radish
  • 1/2 cup black olives
  • 1 tbsp hemp seeds
  • extra diced herbs

Instructions

Vegan Dilly Ranch Dressing

  • In a high-speed blender add the cashews (soaked overnight, drained & rinsed), filtered water, garlic powder, onion powder and lemon juice
  • Blend on high until smooth
  • Add the herbs, sea salt and black pepper and blend for a short time to incorporate the herbs

Little Gem Salad

  • Add little gem lettuce, rinsed and dried to a serving plate
  • Add sliced cucumbers, sliced radish, black olives and a drizzle of the Dilly Ranch Dressing
  • Top with hemp seeds and extra herbs

Healthy Recipes On Instagram

If you make this recipe, I’d love to see! Tag me on Instagram @healthygrocerygirl

More Salad Recipes From The Blog!

Mandarin Orange Sesame Salad

Lemon Herb Pasta Salad

BBQ Chickpea Salad with Avocado Ranch

Creamy 3 Potato Salad

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Molasses Snack Bites https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2023/03/13/molasses-snack-bites/ https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2023/03/13/molasses-snack-bites/#respond Mon, 13 Mar 2023 21:05:06 +0000 https://healthygrocerygirl.com/?p=112655 I make these molasses bites every week for my kids. I started making them as an evening snack for my son who was waking up early in the morning hungry and I felt that he needed a satiating bedtime snack to carry him through the night! When developing this recipe I wanted to include ingredients that contain protein, fiber and fat, which all help to improve satiety and take longer to digest.

We also eat dairy-free and I love that molasses is a source of calcium and iron!

What Is Molasses?

Molasses is a thick, viscous substance resulting from refining sugarcane or sugar beets into sugar. Molasses is often use to sweeten recipes whether sweet or savory. Some popular uses for molasses are to sweeten BBQ sauces and make gingerbread cookies! I personally love adding molasses to snack bites or snack bars to naturally sweeten the recipe and add a boost of nutrition!

Health Benefits of Molasses

Molasses is naturally rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, vitamin B6 and antioxidants!

Molasses may also help to relieve constipation, help treat anemia and support bone health. What’s also amazing is that (ounce per ounce) molasses has more calcium than milk and more iron than eggs! (1) For those who eat dairy-free, consuming molasses on a regular basis is a great way to boost iron and calcium intake.

How To Make Molasses Snack Bites

To make molasses snack bites you’ll add the oats, dates, molasses, peanut butter (or any other nut or seed butter you prefer), walnuts, ground flaxseeds, chia seeds, cinnamon and ginger powder into a food processor. This is the food processor I have and love!

Pulse all ingredients together to form a sticky batter. Roll batter into ball about 1 inch thick and place in an air-tight storage container and place in the fridge or freezer. If storing in the fridge, enjoy with 1 week. If storing in the freezer, enjoy with 2-3 months.

Round brown molasses snack bites in glass food container
Print

Molasses Bites

Servings 12 Bites

Ingredients

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup pitted dates
  • 1/4 cup nut butter
  • 1/4 cup walnuts
  • 2 tablespoons chia sees
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds
  • 1-2 tablespoons molasses 2 tablespoons will have a stronger flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ginger
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  • In a food processor, add all ingredients and pulse to create a crumbly batter
  • Then add water and pulse again to create a sticky batter
  • Roll batter into balls and place in an air-tight container
  • Store in the fridge and enjoy within 1 week or the freezer and enjoy within 2 months. I store our bites in the freezer, and we always eat them up within a week!

Kid-Friendly Energy Bites Recipes

Lemon Orange Energy Bites

Pink Lemon Energy Bites

Maple Apple Cinnamon Bites

Healthy Recipes On Instagram!

If you make this recipe, I’d love to see! Tag me on Instagram @HealthyGroceryGirl

Sources:

  1. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/21622515.2021.1892203
Megan Roosevelt Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Cooking Show Host
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Plant-Based Teriyaki Bowl https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2023/02/27/plant-based-teriyaki-bowl/ https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2023/02/27/plant-based-teriyaki-bowl/#respond Mon, 27 Feb 2023 21:04:04 +0000 https://healthygrocerygirl.com/?p=112622

I made this Teriyaki Bowl for dinner recently and it was such a hit! On a cold rainy day I really enjoyed having a warm, flavorful dinner!

How A Plant-Based Diet Supports Gut Health

One of my goals with feeding my family is to add a variety of vegetables to our lunches and dinners. According to the American Gut Project, we know that eating 30+ different plant-based foods in a week is associated with better bacterial diversity in the gut. This is important because our gut health not only impact digestive health, it also impacts our immune health, hormone health, mood, cognitive function, energy levels and more! I am always looking for ways to add more vegetables into our meals and this dish is a great way to rack up your plant-points! In fact this dinner has 13 + different plant-based ingredients!

How To Make Teriyaki Sauce

Homemade sauces used to intimidate me! However, the more you play around with ingredients and try out new sauce or dressing recipes the more your kitchen confidence builds! I love making homemade sauces not only to help control the exact ingredients and leave out ingredients I don’t want, but also because I often find they taste so much better than most store-bought options!

This teriyaki sauce is made with a few simple ingredients such as:

Avocado oil

Liquid aminos or try Soy-Free Liquid Aminos

Filtered Water

Real Maple Syrup

Brown Rice Flour

Sriracha or try Veggie Sriracha

Ginger Powder

Garlic Powder

To make the teriyaki sauce, add all sauce ingredients to a small pot and whisk together. Warm sauce over low / medium heat until you see the first bubbles, then turn the heat off, stir and let sit. Be careful not to over cook the sauce, but if you do simply whisk in a tablespoon or two of water.

Print

Plant-Based Teriyaki Bowl

Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown rice (dry)
  • 1 tbsp cooking oil (coconut or avocado oil)
  • 1 cup mushrooms
  • 1 orange bell pepper
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes
  • 1 cup black beans
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1 cup green cabbage
  • 1 tbsp black sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp white sesame seeds

Teriyaki Sauce

  • 1/4 cup avocado oil
  • 1/4 cup liquid aminos
  • 1/4 cup filtered water
  • 2 tbsp real maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp brown rice flour
  • 1 tsp sriracha
  • 1/4 tsp ginger powder
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  • Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
  • Dice mushrooms, slice orange bell pepper and cut tomatoes in half.
  • Heat cooking oil over medium heat, add mushrooms, bell pepper and tomatoes. Saute for 8-10 minutes. Then add black beans and cook for 2-3 more minutes.
  • To make the teriyaki sauce, add all sauce ingredients to a small pot and whisk together. Warm sauce over low / medium heat until you see the first bubbles, then turn the heat off, stir and let sit. Be careful not to over cook the sauce, but if you do simply whisk in a tablespoon or two of water.
  • Thinly slice spinach and cabbage.
  • Build bowls with rice, spinach and cabbage, cooked veggies, top with sauce and sesame seeds. Enjoy!

Making This Meal For Kids

What’s great about this meal is that you can easily customize it to meet various dietary preferences of your family. For meat eaters, add chicken or salmon! For kids you can deconstruct and offer beans & rice with teriyaki sauce and veggies on the side!

This dish is also great with brown rice noodles, quinoa, black rice or any other grain or gluten-free grain you prefer!

If you make this recipe, I’d love to see! Tag me on Instagram @healthygrocerygirl

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Christmas Snack For Kids Cucumber Trees https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2022/12/07/christmas-snack-for-kids-cucumber-trees/ https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2022/12/07/christmas-snack-for-kids-cucumber-trees/#respond Wed, 07 Dec 2022 16:48:27 +0000 https://healthygrocerygirl.com/?p=112398 Today we’re celebrating episode 6 of Fun With Food! We’re making Cucumber Christmas Trees while learning about the letter C sound, counting, colors, health benefits of chickpeas and I wonder what is in the big cooking pot this time?!⁠

If you’re looking for learning videos for kids that are quality, wholesome and fun I recommend watching our new show, Fun With Food! Fun With Food is an Educational Cooking Show for Kids. In each episode, we make a recipe or go on a food adventure while learning about letters, numbers, colors, shapes, nutrition, feelings and more. Fun with Food is created and hosted by Megan Roosevelt, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and mom of 2.

Health Benefits of Chickpeas

Chickpeas contain protein that helps our bodies grow big and strong! Chickpeas, also known as Garbanzo beans are packed with fiber and contains B vitamins! B vitamins are important because they help increase neurotransmitter levels, including serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine; all of these help to regulate mood. In one 1/2 cup serving, you are providing your body with about 16% of it’s daily fiber needs! Fiber is essential for digestive health and may be preventative to certain diseases such as colorectal cancer.

Health Benefits of Cucumber

Cucumbers are water-dense, containing approximately 95% water! The antioxidants found in cucumbers, such as flavonoids and tannins, may lower oxidation and fight free radicals, which is important for reducing the risk of disease.

Print

Cucumber Christmas Trees

Servings 3

Equipment

  • 1 Christmas Tree cookie cutter
  • 1 Star cookie cutter

Ingredients

  • 3 slices bread
  • 1/4 cup hummus
  • 1 cucumber
  • 3 tablespoons diced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 yellow bell pepper

Instructions

  • Using the Christmas tree cookie cutter, cut out 3 tree shapes from bread. You'll cut out one tree from each slice of bread. Save the extra bread to make croutons, or simply enjoy as is!
  • Thinly slice cucumber and then cut each slice in half. I add approximately 4 cucumber halves to each tree. You'll also need 3 cucumber slices cut into the shape of a triangle to place on top of the tree.
  • Dice the red bell pepper, these will be ornaments.
  • Using the star cookie cutter cut out 3 yellow bell pepper stars.
  • Spread hummus on bread trees, layer cucumber halves to make branches, add a dollop of hummus on one side of each bell pepper star and add star on the top of the trees and then decorate with red bell pepper ornaments. Serve and enjoy right away!

Kid-Friendly Kitchen Tools

We love and use these knives!

Fun With Food colorful plates, see here!

Where To Watch Fun With Food

Watch more episodes of Fun With Food here!

You can can also follow along for more food fun on Instagram here @funwithfoodkids.

What Is Fun With Food?

Fun With Food is an Educational Cooking Show for Kids. In each episode, we make a recipe or go on a food adventure while learning about letters, numbers, colors, shapes, nutrition, feelings and more. Fun with Food is created and hosted by Megan Roosevelt, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and mom of 2.

What More Episodes of Fun With Food

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How To Make A Peanut Butter And Jelly Sandwich https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2022/11/09/how-to-make-a-peanut-butter-and-jelly-sandwich/ https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2022/11/09/how-to-make-a-peanut-butter-and-jelly-sandwich/#respond Wed, 09 Nov 2022 15:21:37 +0000 https://healthygrocerygirl.com/?p=112245 Today we’re celebrating episode 2 of Fun With Food! We’re making a delicious Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich while learning about the letter P sound, counting, colors, health benefits of a good ol’ fashion PB&J and I wonder what is in the big cooking pot this time?!⁠

If you’re looking for learning videos for kids that are quality, wholesome and fun I recommend watching our new show, Fun With Food! Fun With Food is an Educational Cooking Show for Kids. In each episode, we make a recipe or go on a food adventure while learning about letters, numbers, colors, shapes, nutrition, feelings and more. Fun with Food is created and hosted by Megan Roosevelt, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and mom of 2.

Health Benefits of Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is made from peanuts. Peanuts contain protein, fat, fiber and a variety of vitamins and minerals. Peanuts contain omega-6, a fatty acid that lowers bad (LDL) cholesterol and increases good (HDL) cholesterol. Peanuts are also a source of arginine, an amino acid that promotes good blood vessel function and may help prevent heart disease.

Health Benefits of Jam

Jelly and jam are technically different, but when it comes to making a PB&J sandwich, they both work! I personally prefer using jam. Both are made by cooking sugar and almost any fruit; apples, blueberries, strawberries, grapes and raspberries are some of the most common. Fruit are water dense foods, and cooking the fruit reduces the water, thickening it. The natural pectin in fruit along with any added sugar also thickens jelly and jam into a delicious and nutritious spreadable treat! So, what is the difference between jelly and jam you ask? Jelly is strained to remove any chunks of fruit or seeds, while with jam, fruit and seeds are left in to provide texture. Jam is nutritious because fruit is naturally full of vitamins and minerals! For instance strawberries have more vitamin C than oranges! Amazing! Another great thing about jam is that it is usually made with fruit at it’s peak ripeness which is also when the vitamins and minerals are at their maximum level. Jelly, jam, preserves and marmalade (preserves made from citrus) are all ways to lock in fruit at it’s best and enjoy year round. As with any store-bought processed food, read the ingredient list to avoid excess added sugar or any sneaky unwanted ingredients like food dyes!

Print

Servings 0

Kid-Friendly Kitchen Tools

We love and use these knives!

Fun With Food colorful plates, see here!

Where To Watch Fun With Food

Watch more episodes of Fun With Food here!

You can can also follow along for more food fun on Instagram here @funwithfoodkids.

What Is Fun With Food?

Fun With Food is an Educational Cooking Show for Kids. In each episode, we make a recipe or go on a food adventure while learning about letters, numbers, colors, shapes, nutrition, feelings and more. Fun with Food is created and hosted by Megan Roosevelt, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and mom of 2.

What More Episodes of Fun With Food

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Zesty Orange Cranberry Bars https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2022/11/03/zesty-orange-cranberry-bars/ https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2022/11/03/zesty-orange-cranberry-bars/#respond Thu, 03 Nov 2022 22:37:55 +0000 https://healthygrocerygirl.com/?p=112030 During the Holiday months, I always look forward to seasonal flavors or cinnamon, cranberry, orange, pumpkin, clove and more! These Zesty Orange Cranberry Bars are a great Fall breakfast or snack made with oats, almonds, cranberries, orange, almond butter and honey! These bars are easy to make, they require no cooking and the kids can even help. I recommend making a batch now, freezing and then bringing it out on Thanksgiving morning! When everyone is hungry yet Thanksgiving dinner is hours away… you’ll be grateful to have a delicious granola bar packed with seasonal flavor at the ready to eat!

Snack bars on white counter
Hand holding cranberry orange snack bar

Health Benefits of Ingredients

Almonds

Almonds are high in healthy monounsaturated fats, protein and important
nutrients such as manganese and Vitamin E. Almonds are also high in fiber, which helps you feel full longer!

Oats

Oats are a complex carbohydrate, which can help you feel full longer. Oats also contain protein, fiber and iron. Consuming plant-based sources of iron with vitamin C rich foods, such as the orange in this recipe, will help your body absorb the iron better. Your body needs iron to aid your cells in carrying oxygen throughout the body.

Orange and cranberry snack bars

See below to view or print this recipe! If you make these bars, please share a photo on Instagram and tag me @HealthyGroceryGirl so I can easily find and like your creations! It’s so fun to connect with you and see what recipes you’re enjoying.

For more HGG recipe ideas you can also visit the HGG YouTube channel here! 

Four snack bars with orange in the background
Print

Zesty Orange Cranberry Bars

Prep Time 10 minutes
Freeze 3 hours
Servings 0

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp juice from a Limoneira Mandarin Orange
  • 1 tbsp zest from a Limoneira Mandarin Orange
  • 1 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/3 cup slice almonds
  • 1/2 cup cranberries
  • 2 cups rolled oats

Instructions

  • Begin by mixing the juice, zest, almond butter and honey together.
  • Then add the sliced almonds and cranberries, stir together and finally stir in the rolled oats.
  • Use a freezer safe dish around 9 x 8 inches, lined with a small piece of parchment paper.
  • Add the mix and press down until it is flat and well compacted.
  • Finally add the zest on top and freeze for a minimum of one hour, but these are best after 3 or more hours.
  • Cut and enjoy!

Click Below For More Bar Recipes

Orange Oatmeal Applesauce Bars

Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake Bars

Breakfast Cereal Bars

This video was created for the Limoneira YouTube Channel! Megan Roosevelt, RDN is the Spokesperson for Limoneira. To see all our tips & videos makes sure to visit & subscribe to the Limoneira YouTube Channel! 

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Mini Meyer Lemon Pizzas https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2022/10/28/mini-meyer-lemon-pizzas/ https://healthygrocerygirl.com/2022/10/28/mini-meyer-lemon-pizzas/#respond Fri, 28 Oct 2022 04:36:00 +0000 https://healthygrocerygirl.com/?p=111969 These mini meyer lemon pizzas are perfect, whether you’re looking for a new fall dinner idea or a healthy and fun pre-trick-or-treating meal! Made with a delicious lemon pesto and topped with seasonal fall produce… you’ll want to make these pizzas again and again!

Making pizzas at home not only allows you to use the type of ingredients your family prefers, but it’s also such a fun way to get the family involved in cooking. Our kiddos love putting their favorite toppings on this pizza and they really enjoy getting to make it their own.

pizza with pesto, veggies and roasted lemon slices on top.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

Lemons

The antioxidants found in lemons have properties that can protect cells against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can lead to inflammation, which is a precursor to cardiovascular disease. Lemons also contain vitamin C, which has been shown to aid in decreasing the severity and duration of sickness with having adequate levels in the body.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a good source of zinc, which is important for wound healing, immunity and crucial for growth in infants and children. Mushrooms can also contain a small amount of vitamin D if they are exposed to UV light!

Squash

Squash contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which is important for digestion! Soluble fiber dissolves in water creating a gel like consistency to aid in digestion. Insoluble fiber draws water into your stool, creating bulk. Adding squash into recipes is just one way to get these different types of fiber into your diet.

See below to view or print this recipe! If you make this pizza, please share a photo on Instagram and tag me @HealthyGroceryGirl so I can easily find and like your creations! It’s so fun to connect with you and see what recipes you’re enjoying.

For more HGG recipe ideas you can also visit the HGG YouTube channel here! 

Print

Mini Meyer Lemon Pizzas

Servings 0
Author Healthy Grocery Girl

Ingredients

  • 2 Limoneira Meyer lemons
  • 2 oz fresh basil
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup hemp seeds
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup non-dairy cheese
  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup diced kobucha squash
  • 1/2 cup arugula sprouts
  • 10 oz pizza dough of choice

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • In a blender add basil, juice from one whole lemon, olive oil, hemp seeds, garlic powder and salt. Blend until smooth.
  • Cut pizza dough in half and flatten to form 2 mini pizzas.
  • Bake pizza crust for 15 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan add a touch of oil and diced kobucha squash. Sauté for 5 minutes.
  • Add mushrooms and sauté for another 5 minutes. Push mixture to the side of pan.
  • Slice lemon and add slices to the pan and cook for 3 minutes on each side.
  • Assemble pizza with pesto, cheese, squash, mushrooms and lemon slices. 
  • Bake for an additional 15 minutes. 
  • Top pizzas with arugula sprouts and enjoy!
2 pizzas with roasted veggies, roasted lemons and sprouts on top.

If you love this recipe, see below for more quick & healthy dinner recipes! As always all Healthy Grocery Girl recipes are gluten-free, dairy-free and predominantly plant-based.

Creamy Lemon Bowtie Pasta

Orange Pumpkin Vegan Enchiladas

Orange BBQ Lentil Loaf

pizza with pesto, sprouts, mushrooms, squash and lemons.

This video was created for the Limoneira YouTube Channel! Megan Roosevelt, RDN is the Spokesperson for Limoneira. To see all our tips & videos makes sure to visit & subscribe to the Limoneira YouTube Channel! 

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