Chia Seed Cookbook

You may have heard of chia plants (or at least Chia Pets), but do you know just how good the plants tiny seeds are for you, and how versatile they are? The chia plant is a relative of the mint plant. It makes tiny, flavorless, gluten-free seeds that are chock full of antioxidants and fiber, and when combined with water, they can be used as a replacement for butter or oil in your favorite baked goods. In addition, the seeds contain an oil that naturally repels pests, making it easy for farmers to grow the seeds organically, without the use of pesticides. If thats not enough to convince you to try them, consider that chia seeds help balance blood sugar, prevent diseases such as diverticulitis and diverticulosis, and contain the essential fatty acid omega-3, which lowers hypertension and benefits your heart. Its surprisingly easy to cook and bake with chia seeds, and because they take on the flavor of whatever ingredients theyre mixed with, theyll only enhance your favorite dishes. Heres a sampling of the nearly 100 recipes included: Sunny Sweet Potato and Chocolate Chip Chia MuffinsEasy Chia Oat SquaresPeanut Butter Chia WafflesLemon Chia Cheesecake PancakesCranberry Chia CouscousSouthwest Chia Bean BurgersCitrus Scallops and Veggie Stir FryFresh Chia Lime SoupChia Triple Fruit CrispGluten-Free Peanut Butter CookiesSophisticated Chocolate Orange CakeOh-So-Lemon CupcakesChia Lemon Hummus