Homemade Applesauce

Try making this homemade applesauce recipe for the fall season! Apples serve as an excellent source of many nutrients including antioxidants, fiber, Vitamin C, and zinc. Due to their many nutrients, apples boost brain health, improve gut function, reduce inflammation, and help stabilize blood sugar levels. Lemon juice improves skin health, supports immunity, and reduces the risk of kidney stones. Including cinnamon in this recipe will provide you with many important minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Serve this applesauce for breakfast or as a quick on-the-go snack and enjoy! 

Ingredients:

• 5 lbs of apples

• ¼ cup water

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1) Begin by peeling the apples. Then, core and chop them into small cubes.

2) Add the chopped apples, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon to a large saucepan. While mixing the ingredients, bring to a boil over the stove. Set the heat on medium-low and cover with a lid.

3) Allow the mixture to cook for about 20 minutes or until the apples are soft and able to be mashed with a fork. Mash the apples into a puree mixture while still cooking.

4) Transfer the mixture to a high-speed blender and blend until your preferred smooth mixture is formed.

5) Store the applesauce in a jar and keep in the refrigerator for up to one week. Enjoy!

Pumpkin Hummus

Try making this Pumpkin Hummus for your next appetizer option! Fall is quickly approaching, and this hummus is the perfect dip to serve at your next family gathering! Pumpkin is a powerhouse of antioxidants, helps reduce the risk of chronic disease, and boosts immunity. Chickpeas serve as an excellent source of fiber and promote bowel regularity. Cumin is packed with iron, promotes healthy digestion, reduces inflammation, and improves cholesterol levels. Serve this hummus with your favorite tortilla chips and/or veggies and enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 1 14 oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tbsp tahini

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp chili powder

• Cilantro, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1) Place all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth.

2) Transfer to a bowl and top with cilantro, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds if preferred.

3) Store in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to four days and enjoy!

Matcha Energy Bites

Try making these Matcha Energy Bites for your next quick and healthy snack option! Matcha helps prevent cancer, boosts heart health, and improves brain function. Coconut flour is high in fiber and serves as a great source of protein. Hemp seeds are packed with essential fatty acids, which help regulate inflammation in the body. Grab one or two of these matcha energy bites while on the go and enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp cocoa butter, melted

• ½ cup almond butter

• ¼ cup coconut flour

• 1 tsp matcha powder

• 2 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp maple syrup

• Hemp seeds for topping

Instructions:

1) Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

2) Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender or food processor. Pulse for 2-3 minutes.

3) Transfer the mixture to the freezer for about 5 minutes.

4) Take the mixture out of the freezer and form into 1-inch balls and line them on the lined baking sheet. Sprinkle the energy bites with hemp seeds.

5) Store in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

6) Transfer to an air-tight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week and enjoy!

Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Try making these Bacon Wrapped Scallops for your next snack or appetizer option! Scallops are a delicious type of shellfish that offer many health benefits. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, are a great source of zinc, and provide plenty of Vitamin B12. Garlic has anti-bacterial properties, helps reduce blood pressure, and serves as an excellent source of antioxidants! Lemon is rich in Vitamin C and great for heart health. Serve these bacon wrapped scallops at your next gathering and enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dry scallops (about 14)

• 8 oz bacon (about 7 strips)

• 2 tbsp coconut oil

• 1 clove garlic, diced

• ½ tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Half lemon and fresh parsley for topping, optional

Instructions:

1) Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

2) Season the scallops with sea salt and black pepper.

3) Cut the bacon slices in half so that you get a total of 14 strips. Wrap the scallops in the bacon strips and secure with a toothpick. Evenly distribute them on the prepared baking sheet.

4) In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Toss in the garlic and cook for about 1 minute.

5) Coat the bacon wrapped scallops with the garlic-oil mixture, making sure to leave the garlic in the pan.

6) Bake the bacon wrapped scallops for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked.

7) Top with fresh parsley and lemon and enjoy!