Chocolate Strawberry Chia Parfaits

In recent years, chia seeds have surged in popularity, becoming a staple in health-conscious kitchens around the globe. These tiny seeds, derived from the Salvia hispanica plant, are packed with essential nutrients and have gained a reputation as a superfood. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, chia seeds are not only a fantastic addition to a balanced diet but also offer a range of health benefits, from promoting heart health to aiding digestion. As a result, they have found their way into various recipes, including smoothies, puddings, and, of course, parfaits.

Indulge in the rich flavors of chocolate and fresh strawberries with these decadent chocolate strawberry chia parfaits. This delicious recipe combines creamy chia pudding, loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, with layers of juicy strawberries and a hint of cocoa. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these parfaits are not only nutritious but also visually stunning. Discover how to make them easily and enjoy a treat that's both satisfying and beneficial for your health.

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Ingredients

1/2 cup chia seeds

2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any preferred milk)

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 cup maple syrup (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (dairy-free if preferred)

Extra strawberries and chopped nuts for topping (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chia Pudding:

- In a bowl, whisk together the almond milk, chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.

- Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. Stir again to prevent the chia seeds from clumping together.

- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, until the chia seeds have absorbed the liquid and formed a pudding-like consistency.

Prepare the Strawberries:

- While the chia pudding sets, rinse the strawberries, hull them, and slice them. You can also mash some of the strawberries with a fork if you prefer a smoother texture.

Assemble the Parfaits:

- In serving glasses or bowls, layer the ingredients starting with a layer of the chocolate chia pudding at the bottom.

- Add a layer of sliced strawberries, followed by a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips.

- Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with a layer of chia pudding on top.

Garnish:

- Top each parfait with additional fresh strawberry slices and a sprinkle of chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Serve:

- Chill the parfaits for about 30 minutes if desired, then serve them cold. Enjoy this delightful treat as a healthy breakfast, snack, or dessert!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours (plus chilling) | Servings: 4