Delectible Drink & Dessert for Mom on Mother’s Day!
May 12, 2019One way you can show your love and appreciation for Mother’s Day is to take charge in the kitchen. Give the mom/s in your life some relaxation, goodness and heart health all at the same time. For all the hard work they do on a daily basis, there should be at least one day to relax and allow mom to let loose a little.
Did you know that certain foods can help people relax, decrease stress and increase our happy hormones? And… some of these foods just so happen to be female favorites! Try these two simple, delicious and heart healthy recipes!
Dark Chocolate Avocado Mousse:
A rich, creamy 5 ingredient recipe that will become a staple in your house. Dark chocolate contains high amounts of antioxidants and the higher the cocoa content, the less the sugar and the more health benefits: some being blood pressure control, improved brain function and protective against some chronic illnesses. I would recommend 70-85% cocoa content. Using avocado provides a heart healthy fat and fiber while maintaining the creamy texture of regular chocolate mousse. Not only that, but the healthy fat is good for skin, hair and nails and provides many different vitamins and minerals. It might sound odd, but I promise – it will not disappoint! Recipe provided by Nutrition Stripped – post it and hashtag #nutritionstripped. https://nutritionstripped.com/dark-chocolate-avocado-mousse/
THE RECIPE SERVES 2
Ingredients
2 large avocados (or 4 small, make sure they are ripe)
1/4 cup of unsweetened vanilla almond milk (adjust to your desired thickness)
2 tablespoons of raw organic cocoa powder
1/2 bar of your favorite high-quality dark chocolate, melted (can use dark chocolate chips)
2-3 dates pitted
1 tablespoon of coffee/espresso (optional)
1/2 teaspoon of organic vanilla extract
Optional garnish: 1 tablespoon of cacao nibs, 1 tablespoon of shredded coconut, and fresh berries
Instructions
Step 1: Melt the dark chocolate over a stovetop (or microwave safe bowl).
Step 2: Combine the melted chocolate sauce with the remaining ingredients in a blender or bowl. Combine all the ingredients using a high-speed blender (or a hand mixer).
Step 3: Blend or mix until creamy and smooth. The texture will resemble a fluffy mousse. Spoon into a bowl or wine glass (for some flare) and garnish with toppings of your choice.
Red Wine-Pomegranate Spritzer:
Pomegranates are not only delicious, but can help with mom’s memory by their extremely high antioxidant compounds which can help with cancer prevention, immune support, anti-inflammatory properties and memory retention. Red wine has been shown to have very high antioxidant levels (of course, in moderate amounts 4oz = 1 serving (1 serving a day recommended for women)). This nutrition packed cocktail along with the avocado mousse can assist in keeping mom around for a long, long time! Recipe from: https://healthyeatingforfamilies.com/recipe/pomegranate-red-wine-spritzer/
THE RECIPE 1 SERVING
Ingredients
½ cup ice cubes
½ cup favorite red wine (sweet red or a red blend)
½ cup unsweetened orange-flavored sparkling water (or grapefruit sparkling water)
2 TBSP pomegranate juice
1 TBSP pomegranate seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Place ice into wine glass (or any of mom’s favorite glasses)
Step 2: Add wine, sparkling water, pomegranate juice and seeds.
Step 3: Mix well and drink responsibly!
Nutrition information: Serving size: 6 oz; 129 calories, 11 grams carbohydrate/sugars, 26 mg sodium
Resources: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324747.php
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318385.php
Photo from: https://dizzybusyandhungry.com/pomegranate-orange-spritzer/
Compiled by: Annie Scott, RD, LDN, MPH
