By Megan Roosevelt, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and founder of HealthyGroceryGirl.com
If you’re reading this post it’s likely because you’re a fan of Hemp Hearts and are in need of inspiration for how to enjoy them even more! As a quick overview, Hemp Hearts are nutritionally impressive, containing 10 grams of protein and 10 grams of omega 3 and omega 6 fats per serving, which is 3 tablespoons or 30 grams. They are incredibly versatile and the ways to enjoy them are endless. Below are my top ten favorite ways!
- OATMEAL OR OVERNIGHT OATS
Oats contain fiber and protein and they are an easy and quick breakfast that keeps you full for hours. To boost nutrition and satiety I love to add fruits, nuts and seeds such as Hemp Hearts on top. Whether you’re a fan of oatmeal or overnight oats - they are an easy way to sprinkle more protein to your meal! Check out my recipe for Strawberry Banana Overnight Oats with Hemp Hearts.
Need a break from oatmeal? Try my Berry Quinoa Breakfast Bowl!
- TOPPED ON YOGURT
I love non-dairy yogurts made with almond, coconut or cashew milk. Yogurt and Fruit Hemp Heart Parfaits are a quick and healthy breakfast or snack.
- SMOOTHIE OR SMOOTHIE BOWL
Smoothies are a fantastic way to consume a variety of nutrients from fruits, veggies, superfoods and supplements all blended together. If you’re the busy on-the-go type smoothies are a great way to nourish your body quick. If you have picky eaters at home, smoothies are a great way to sneak in healthy ingredients!
- WAFFLES OR PANCAKES
My favorite breakfast on the weekend is waffles or pancakes. I like to add Hemp Hearts to my batter knowing it’s adding a boost of protein and omega 3 and omega 6 fats. Check out my recipe for Blueberry Hemp Waffles!
- GREEN SALADS, FRUITS SALADS & NOURISH BOWLS
This Hemp Heart Nourish Salad is one example of how you can easily enjoy Manitoba Harvest Hemp Hearts and Hemp Oil! The oil is great as a finishing oil or for making homemade salad dressings. Hemp Hearts not only make your meal look even more appetizing, they are nutritious and add a mild crunchy texture.
For an even heartier meal than a salad, try my Nourish Bowl Recipe made with rice, beans, veggies, avocado and of course… Hemp Hearts!
In addition to green salads and hearty plant-powered bowls, Hemp Hearts are great on fruit salad. This Coconut Hemp Fruit Salad Recipe is refreshing and a healthy way to satisfy a sweet tooth.
- SAUCES - PESTO, PASTA SAUCE & MORE!
Pasta is total comfort food and it can also be a guilt-free meal! Go for brown rice or lentil based pasta for a boost in protein and fiber. Then top with a simple homemade or store-bought sauce low in sugar. Whether homemade or store-bought, I Iove to elevate my sauce with finely diced fresh veggies such as zucchini or spinach and Hemp Hearts for added protein.
- BAKED TREATS - COOKIES & BREAD
Hemp Hearts are so easy to add to a baked recipe such as these cookies or muffins or bread. My recipe for Breakfast Cookies is a favorite in our house and they double as a tasty afternoon snack! I love that they are made with real, simple ingredients as well as protein, fiber and healthy fats.
- HOMEMADE ENERGY BITES OR BARS
Making your own energy bites is easy and the ingredient combinations are endless. My recipe for Energy Bites made with Manitoba Harvest Hemp Hearts are a great snack to power through your mid-morning or mid-afternoon energy slump or they are great as a dessert!
- HOMEMADE HEMP MILK
Hemp milk is a fantastic non-dairy option to add to smoothies, coffee, tea, on top of oatmeal, for baking, dipping cookies or enjoy a chilled glass all on it’s own! Check out this recipe for homemade Hemp Heart Milk.
- DIPS, SPREADS & SALSA - OH MY!
Everyone loves a good dip! Perfect to enjoy with crackers, chips, fresh cut veggies or even fruit. My three favorites are guacamole, hummus and salsa. Check out my recipe for Hemp Heart Guacamole here! The guacamole is also delicious spread on toast for an elevated Avocado Toast!
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