All tagged Spring

Swiss Bircher Muesli | + Video |

In Switzerland, this breakfast is part of every breakfast buffet, and for good reason- it’s so filling and satisfying! You know, for those long ski days or hiking excursions up the Alps 😉 So easy to make, this recipe is great for beginners in the kitchen.  Swiss Bircher Muesli also lasts in the fridge for 4-5 days, so this recipe can last for a week of ready-made breakfasts.

Serves: 4-6

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 0 minutes (refrigerate 2 hours or overnight)

What (your ingredients):

1.5 cups muesli

1.5 cups plant milk (I used 1 cup Unsweetened Original Ripple and 1/2 cup oat milk)

1 cup almond yogurt (Kite Hill is excellent)

1 teaspoon orange zest

Juice of 1 orange

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

2 apples (1 diced, 1 grated) covered with 1 teaspoon lemon juice (prevents browning)

Favorite Toppings: berries, hazelnuts, walnuts

How (your directions):

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.  Refrigerate overnight.

Enjoy with your favorite toppings!

Why (the science):  Oats contain soluble fiber, which helps lower “bad “LDL cholesterol!

Kale and Quinoa Salad with Fig and Walnuts

Full disclosure: I’m always intimidated to make salads, because I worry that they won’t be near as good as what I can order from a nice restaurant.  But THIS is the recipe that changes everything! Easy? Check! Café-quality? Check! Elegant but fast to throw together? Check! Kale and Quinoa Salad with Fig and Walnuts will be your go-to “I’ll bring the salad” dish to show off to all your friends 😊

Serves: 1

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 0 minutes

What (your ingredients):

1 bunch kale, torn into pieces

1 tablespoon pomegranate balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons walnut pieces

2 dried figs, cut into small pieces

1 oz. goat cheese

1/3 cup quinoa, cooked

How (your directions):

Place kale pieces into a large bowl.  Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.  Massage the kale for 2-3 minutes.  Tip: Massaging kale allows it to become more tender and slightly sweeter!

Transfer salad to a plate, then top with walnuts, figs, crumbled goat cheese, and quinoa.

Enjoy immediately or the next day!

Why (the science):  Quinoa is a complete protein, making it a great replacement for brown rice and other starches!