We've been getting into the 100s here in Sacramento and a cold snack on the patio is my own slice of heaven. I've dreamed up this recipe for an indulgent summer snack wanting something free from additives and added sugar while remaining high in flavor. Treats feel a little less guilty when they include some health benefits so, I've harnessed the natural sweetness of ripe blueberries and included chia seeds which among many other things; regulate your blood sugar. Chia seeds control the speed at which sugar enters your blood stream; creating a barrier in your stomach and keeping insulin levels from spiking. Here are some other reasons to love Chia Seeds:
-High in Fiber
-Rich in Protein {14% by weight}
-Vegan source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
-Packed full of Vitamins and Antioxidants
-Great source of Calcium
I chose to layer the coconut yogurt and chia seeds and the blueberry, lavender, coconut milk infusion. Feel free to combine everything together if you prefer.
Coconut/Chia Seed Yogurt
{3/4 cup} plain unsweetened coconut yogurt
{2 tbsp} organic chia seeds
Blueberry and Lavender Infusion
{1/2 cup} blueberries
{1/4 cup} filtered water
{1-1/2 tbsp} maple syrup
{1/4 tbsp} lavender
Blueberry, Lavender & Coconut Milk Blend
{1/2 cup} blueberries
Blueberry and Lavender Infusion
{1/2 cup} full-fat coconut milk
Combine the chia seeds and coconut yogurt and set aside for 5 minutes.
In a small pot add the blueberries, water, maple syrup and lavender and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes. While the Blueberry Lavender Infusion boils; add the coconut chia seed yogurt to the Popsicle molds and pop in the freezer {skip this step if you're combining everything}.
Once the Blueberry and Lavender Infusion is done simmering, pour the through a mesh strainer so that you have only the liquid reserved. I went ahead and used a spoon to push through the mixture and get as much liquid as possible. Discard the solid and add the liquid to the blender, with fresh blueberries and coconut milk. I gave it a very quick, low speed blend so that blueberry pieces were not purified. Blend to your liking.
Once combined and if layering; add the blueberry, lavender and coconut blend on top of the frozen coconut chia seed yogurt layer. Pop back in the freezer till frozen solid.
Enjoy under the warm sun with a smile :)
