Coconut Chia Seed Pudding (Gluten Free & Vegan)

Have you tried chia seeds? When added to liquid, they expand and have a chew typical of tapioca. Since one tablespoon contains 3 grams of Omega 3 fatty acids, 6 grams of dietary fiber and 3 grams of protein, they pack an awesome nutritional punch. Add them as a thickener in smoothies, sprinkle on salad for some extra protein or try them in this tasty, gluten-free breakfast recipe. I'm always looking for healthy breakfasts on the go and this one is great! I ate the pudding in the early morning and wasn't hungry again for four hours.  I think this would also make a wonderful pre-workout snack. The best part? It took approximately 3 minutes to assemble and required no cooking! Just combine in a mason jar, shake twice and refrigerate overnight.

TIPS:

• Recipe can be doubled. Double recipe is found at the end of this page.
• If recipe is doubled, can be stored in refrigerator for up to five days. If storing for more than overnight, I recommend adding the nuts and coconut just before serving to preserve their texture.
• This recipe is gluten free, low in sodium and is also high in dietary fiber and calcium.
• Don't have or like almond milk? Any milk will do - cow's, coconut or soy. Changing the milk will change the calorie content. 

RECIPE:
Servings: 1 (Doubled recipe at end of page)

4 ounces (1/2 cup) Sweetened Vanilla Almond Milk
2 tablespoons chia Seeds
1 tablespoon chopped pecans
2 tablespoons shredded coconut

DIRECTIONS:
In a small mason jar combine the almond milk and chia seeds. Shake and let rest on the counter for 15 minutes. Shake again and refrigerate for 4-6 hours or overnight. Add pecans and coconut before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size  1

Amount Per Serving

Calories  238 Calories from Fat  182

% Daily Value*

Total Fat  20.2g 31%

Saturated Fat  4.4g 22%

Cholesterol  0mg 0%

Sodium  76mg 3%

Potassium  183mg 5%

Total Carbohydrates  16.3g 5%

Dietary Fiber  8.0g 32%

Sugars  7.3g

Protein  5.4g

Vitamin A 5% • Vitamin C 2% Calcium 34% • Iron 19%

Nutrition Grade B-

DOUBLED RECIPE:

Servings: 2

8 ounces (1 cup) Sweetened Vanilla Almond Milk
1/4 cup chia Seeds
2 tablespoons chopped pecans
1/4 cup shredded coconut

DIRECTIONS:
In a medium sized mason jar combine the almond milk and chia seeds. Shake and let rest on the counter for 15 minutes. Shake again and refrigerate for 4-6 hours or overnight. Add pecans and coconut before serving.