Whip up these simple and healthy Valentine’s Day chocolate treats.

Nothing says Valentine’s Day like chocolate, so what better way to show your loved ones how much you care than by whipping up healthy chocolate treats?

These chocolate truffles are rich, fudgy, and protein packed. Soaking the dates in boiling water is an essential step and it will help soften them. Both cacao and cocoa powder work in this recipe, and you can use 100% cacao chocolate chips, if you’re avoiding refined sugar.

They can get a little sticky, so use a small ice cream scoop to shape the truffles into balls, or you can get a little crazy and just scoop some up with your hands and form a ball. You can place them on parchment paper to help with clean up or place the truffles directly on a plate.

These delicious tokens of love can be stored in the fridge for one week or kept frozen for up to one month - but we doubt they’ll even make it to the freezer!

Makes about 20 truffles

These rich and fudgy treats are packed with protein and irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dates, pitted, soaked (about 20 dates)

• 2 cups ground almond flour

• 1 scoop Life’s Abundance Chocolate Protein Powder

• 1/4 cup cacao powder

• 2 tsp. vanilla extract

• 1/4 tsp. fine sea salt

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup boiling water

 

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, soak the dates in just enough boiling water to cover them (about 1 cup of water). Soak for five minutes and then drain them, reserving 1/2 cup of water.
   
   
2. Add the almond flour, dates, Life’s Abundance Chocolate Protein Powder, cacao powder, vanilla extract, and fine sea salt to a food processor and process until it forms a cookie dough–like texture (about 30-60 seconds). Mix in the chocolate chips.
   
   
3. Scoop the batter into balls, being careful of the blade in the food processor. Place balls on a lined rim baking sheet with parchment paper or on a clean plate.
   
   
4. Add one scoop of Life’s Abundance Chocolate Protein powder to a small bowl. Gently roll the balls into the chocolate protein powder to coat them. Reuse leftover chocolate protein powder in your recipes.

Please note: This tasty treat is intended for human consumption only. This recipe contains chocolate and chocolate is highly toxic to pets. Keep chocolate products out of reach from your pets at all times.

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Instead of tons of calories in an onion dip, try our tasty superfood recipe.

Don’t want to be stuck eating 5,000 calories-a-scoop onion dip at your best friend’s holiday soiree - yet fear being made fun of when you bring your favorite gluten-free, sugar-free, fun-free hors d'oeuvre? Add this flavorful superfood dip featuring our delicious Greens Blend to the potluck table and you’ll be the star of the party.

This dip is not only easy to make, it contains some of the most nutrient-dense foods out there - like spinach, garlic, beans, red peppers, and avocado. Not up on the latest benefits of these superfoods? Read below so you can school the mini-hotdog lovers scowling at the “health food”, they think, you’re trying to pass off as tasty. 

Beans are loaded with fiber and plant protein to help keep you full. They’re also an under-the-radar antioxidant hero - protecting your heart, improving your skin, and preventing heart disease.

Spinach is your leafy green BFF; it’s filled with antioxidants, most of its calories come from protein, and it’s one of the best sources of dietary potassium and iron. Plus, the Vitamins A and C it contains will help boost your immune system in these cold winter months.

Avocados contain over 25 essential nutrients and are one of the tastiest ways to get in some much-needed healthy fat and fiber. They’re loaded with monounsaturated fat, known to improve cholesterol and help you lose belly fat. They also contain the compound glutathione, which blocks the absorption of unhealthy fats. 

Did you know? Avocados contain glutathione which blocks the absorption of unhealthy fats.

Garlic is best known as the ingredient to avoid if you plan on getting face-to-face, it should be touted for its main disease-fighting compound, Allicin. Not only does it create healing in the circulatory, digestive and immune systems, it also has anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, and antioxidant properties. 

Red Peppers contain beta carotene, lycopene, and skin-repairing Vitamin A, but their most impressive stat is the amount of the powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C, they contain - twice as much as an orange. 

Rosemary has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries; traditionally used to help alleviate muscle pain, improve memory, boost the immune and circulatory system, and promote hair growth - fresh Rosemary tastes best. 

Around the Life’s Abundance office, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between deprivation and all-out gluttony. We know that in order to get anyone, whether it’s our kids or our friends, to get on the superfood bandwagon, we need to make them taste good, or there’s no getting them to take a second bite.

Whip up this 5-minute dip and guests will be overjoyed by its taste, plus the fact that they can now indulge in an extra cookie or two.

Recipe: 

• 1 scoop Life’s Abundance Greens Blend
• 1 15.5 oz can cannellini beans
• 1 avocado
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, packed
• 2 large cloves garlic
• Juice from 1 fresh lemon
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ½ red pepper finely diced (reserved)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a food processor or high-speed blender, puree all ingredients except the red pepper, until smooth. Stir in diced pepper, and transfer to a serving bowl. Serve with crostini or sliced colored peppers and assorted veggies. Makes 1 ½ cups or about 8 servings.

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Ultimate BBQ Sauce Recipe

Looking for a smoothie that’s delicious, nutritious and affordable? Packed with protein, antioxidants and nutrient-dense greens, this smoothie not only gives you incredible energy, but it’s simple to make. Just combine three of our delicious supplements and a few of your favorite fruits. Best of all, it costs less than your daily pick-me-up.

Ditch the morning coffee and muffin and start your day off feeling great!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed, frozen berries (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries)
• 1/2 cup frozen cherries
• 1 frozen banana
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, or milk of choice
• 1 scoop Life’s Abundance Vanilla Plant Protein
• 1 scoop Life’s Abundance Cherry Minerals and Antioxidants
• 1 scoop Life’s Abundance Greens Blend
• Optional: a handful of kale or spinach to amp up the green factor

Directions:

1. Place all ingredients in a blender
2. Puree until smooth
3. Add more milk if the blend is too thick
4. Enjoy!

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Tropical Chia Pudding Recipe

Staying hydrated for the summer doesn’t have to be boring! Amp up your H2O game by making this delicious lemonade recipe using our Minerals & Antioxidants - packed with all the nutrients your body needs and none of the sugar it doesn’t. Follow along for a refreshment that’s perfect for sipping poolside.

What We Love About Minerals & Antioxidants:

• Contains 74-plant based, naturally chelated trace minerals as well as antioxidants from 10 nutrient-rich superfruits including acai, cranberry, goji, maqui and pomegranate
• It’s got a high ORAC value, which stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity and it's a way of measuring the free-radical fighting antioxidant level.
• No harmful chemicals. Our formula is made with coconut water and aloe vera and it does’t contain any added sugar, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
• Gives you sustained energy for the day.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 min 
Total Time: 10 min 

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice (about 4 medium lemons) + one lemon sliced
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 3 cups water
• 4 scoops Life’s Abundance Minerals & Antioxidants, Cherry Flavor
• Small handful of mint

Preparation:

1. Combine lemon juice and maple syrup in a pitcher.
2. Stir in water. Add more water or maple syrup to achieve your desired taste.
3. Add four scoops of Cherry Flavored Life’s Abundance Minerals & Antioxidants
4. Add your mint and lemon slices.
5. Enjoy!

Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. 

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24 Carrot Mocktail Recipe

Watermelon Popsicles Recipe

Looking for a creative, healthy recipe to add to your sweet and chocolate-filled snack options? You might say “impossible,” but we created this chocolate ‘pudd-tein’ recipe with our Chocolate Plant Protein so you can have a quick and easy protein-packed snack, any time you’re craving one.

About Our Chocolate Plant Protein:

• Contains 15 grams of high-quality plant protein including pea, chia, pumpkin, hemp and quinoa
• Cacao sourced from the Dominican Republic, (where some of the world’s best chocolate comes from)
• Free of gluten, soy, dairy, and grain (great for people with sensitivities)
• Silky smooth texture, you can blend into any smoothie or add to breakfast or snack recipes - just like this one

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 scoop Life’s Abundance Chocolate Plant Protein
• 2 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tbsp cacao powder
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• (Optional) toppings: chocolate chips, coconut flakes, nuts, berries

Instructions:

1. Add ingredients all together into a blender
2. Blend on high for 30 seconds or until smooth
3. Pour into container and chill for at least 1 hour
4. Top with your choice of toppings
5. Enjoy!

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Who said that a sweet breakfast can’t be healthy? Plantains are a staple in many tropical countries, and although they’re known as “dessert bananas”, they make a great breakfast side, and they’re packed with nutrients!

Why we love plantains:

• They’re a great source of complex carbohydrates, which digest slower and keep you fuller, longer - helping you curb unhealthy snacking throughout the day.
• They aid in your digestive health since they’re high in fiber.
• They’re great for heart health as they’re full of potassium as well as antioxidants from Vitamin C.
• They’re a non-seasonal crop, making them available for delicious recipes all year round.
• They’re versatile! They can serve as a healthy side dish, be made into soup, or fried for breakfast - as in the recipe below!

Try this quick and easy plantain-inspired recipe today!

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe plantains
• 1 scoop of Vanilla Plant Protein
• 3 Tbsp. coconut oil (stove top only)

Instructions:

1. Peel the plantains
2. Slice into 1/4" thick slices on a diagonal
3. Coat each slice in Vanilla Plant Protein
4. Shake off excess powder

Stove Top Instructions:

Preheat coconut oil in a sauté pan or skillet on medium heat. Once hot, add the plantains in a single layer. Cook for about 30 seconds on each side. Serve immediately.

Air Fryer Instructions:

Preheat the air fryer to 300 degrees. Add the plantains in a single layer and cook for about 3 minutes on each side. Serve immediately.

Enjoy!

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Strawberry Protein Smoothie Recipe

Blueberry Protein Overnight Oats Recipe

Looking for quick and easy breakfast ideas to make your sweetie on Valentines Day? Look no further than this delicious, strawberry smoothie. It’s not only packed with vitamins and protein, it’s also sugar free and gluten free for those who have allergies. Plus it only takes about 2 minutes to make, and is totally portable if you need to take it to go. If you want to kick the nutrients up a notch, you can make it a green smoothie by adding a handful of frozen spinach or kale - just know it will lose it’s pretty, pink color. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

• 1.5 cups whole frozen strawberries
• 1/2 cup frozen sliced banana (slice before you freeze)
• 1/4 cup Life’s Abundance Vanilla Plant Protein
• 1/3 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place all the ingredients in a high-speed blender, and blend for 60-120 seconds until you get a smooth and creamy texture.
2. If it’s too thick, add more milk.
3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately. You can store in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but it definitely tastes best fresh.

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Blueberry Protein Overnight Oats Recipe

With summer here, who wouldn’t want to indulge in a simple and refreshing mocktail? This easy recipe only needs four ingredients, so you can take the rest of the day to soak up the sun and lounge by the pool.

This 24 Carrot Mocktail is the perfect blend of nutritious and delicious. With carrot juice being one of the main components, you’re treating yourself to tons of vitamins and a whole bunch of benefits.

Benefits of carrots:

Carrots are low in calories and carbs, but definitely don’t skimp on vitamins A, C, K and potassium. Speaking of vitamin A, it’s vital for eye health. And with over 250% of the DV for vitamin A in just one cup of carrot juice, it could potentially benefit your eyes.

Vitamins A, B6, and C also help out your immune system. These vitamins protect your cells from damage, plus amp up your immune response. Carrots are also great for your overall heart health due to the antioxidants and dietary fibers. These same antioxidants also fight against free radicals that can cause damage to your cells, which helps prevent the possibility of developing cancerous cells.

The potassium in carrots can help in keeping your skin looking young and healthy, too. It works to protect against dryness, improve your skin tone and reduce the appearance of blemishes and scars. Carrots also maintain your cholesterol and blood sugar and can often be used as a pre or post workout food, so feel free to enjoy this mocktail after a quick swim.

Plus, the addition of our Minerals and Antioxidants mix gives you that nutritional boost! It’s made with a variety of freshly harvested sea vegetables and contains approximately 74-plant based, naturally chelated, trace minerals. It also contains antioxidants from 11 nutrient-rich super fruits like acai, cranberry, goji, maqui and pomegranate.

Ingredients (Serves 1):

• ½ cup carrot juice
• 1 scoop Life’s Abundance Minerals and Antioxidants (Cherry Flavor)
• ½ tsp maple syrup
• 1 cup ice

Directions:

In a cocktail shaker, mix all the ingredients and add ice. Shake, serve and enjoy!

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3 Simple Recipes to Fuel Your Summer

What makes a recipe road trip-worthy? 

First off, it has to travel well - nobody wants to open their snack bag to find a wilted salad, a squashed sandwich, or warm fruit salad. These recipes are easy to pack and will not only keep their shape, but also their flavor along the way- while providing you with much needed nutrients to fuel your hiking, biking, or sunning at the beach.  

Second, snacks should give you the energy you’ll need to explore once you get to your destination. So although they should taste great and definitely include “treats,” you want to avoid sugar laden, fried or overly processed packaged snacks.

We’ve road tested our favorite recipes below and given them all the green light - they’re sure to keep you energized, hydrated, and happy on the go.

Sweet Potato Bread

Bread travels well, but it’s usually just white flour packed with carbs that make you want to take a nap - not our make-ahead Sweet Potato Bread, packed with Life’s Abundance Plant Protein. It will give you a much needed energy boost after sitting on a long ride, instead of putting you in a carb coma.

Protein-Packed Brownie Cookies

Brownies? Yes, when we said our recipes were healthy, we even meant this one. These Protein-Packed Brownie Cookies pack a double protein punch with the addition of almond butter and Life’s Abundance Plant Protein, so go ahead and eat two!

Bliss Bites

Ever eat a kitchen sink cookie filled with chips, dried fruit,  pretzels and whatever else was hanging around the bakery? Yes, they’re delicious, but packed with sugar and full of empty calories you don’t need. These Bliss Bites are the same concept except they’re chock full of healthy add ins like coconut, almonds, flax seeds, oats and our nutrient-dense Greens Blend. Ok, they also include chocolate chips, but you’re on vacation - go for it!

Summer Wonder Slushie

Hydrating drinks, (sorry not a latte),  should be on the top of your packing list, especially when traveling in the summer. Yes, you can pick up a bottle of water when you stop for gas but you’re more likely to be tempted by the slushie machines promising to make your taste buds do a happy dance. Honestly, that two second Cha Cha isn’t worth the red dye #7 and 54 grams of sugar it’s jammed with. Instead, take two minutes and mix up our Summer Slushie that includes our Minerals and Antioxidants powder packed with hydrating coconut water and super fruits to keep you refreshed until you reach your destination. 

Cherry Limeade Fresh Whips

Craving a light and refreshing, crunchy and flavor packed cookie? We’ve got you covered. These Cherry Limeade Whips will keep your passengers happy and your car free from major cookie crumbs. These make ahead treats are so easy, make a double batch and save half as a hostess gift. You’ll be sure to get an invite to return next summer!

Summer’s calling and if you’re one of those people who jump in line at the farmer’s market to buy the first watermelon of the season,  but then wonders what you’re going to do with the other half that nobody gets to eating, we have the perfect recipe.

It’s a super refreshing snack, with only 3 ingredients, that takes just a few minutes to make but will keep you hydrated for hours. That’s because these pops are chock full of the tasty pink fruit that's 92% water, which is good news since your body is made of cells full of water that needs to be replenished.

It’s a naturally sweet treat, so unlike “healthy” frozen fruit pops you’d even get from Whole Foods, there’s no added sugar.  But if you do prefer an extra dose of the sweet stuff, here’s a tip: round watermelons are sweeter than their oval counterparts.

Why we love watermelon:

That bright, smile-inducing color comes from Lycopene, an antioxidant that has been shown in studies to curb your risk of cancer and diabetes, and watermelon has more of this phytonutrient than any other vegetable of fruit - even tomatoes!

Watermelon is also rich in citrulline, an amino acid that may help lower your blood pressure, and also beta-cryptoxanthin which may help protect your joints from inflammation.

If those aren’t reasons enough to get poppin’ on these pops, they’re also drip down your chin delicious!

Ingredients:

Amount of ingredients will vary based on your popsicle mold. These are roughly the amounts per popsicle.

• 1/2 cup cubed watermelon
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 scoop Life’s Abundance Minerals & Antioxidants - Tropical Fruit Flavor

Directions:

Blend in a blender, fill in popsicle molds, and freeze for a few hours or until frozen. Enjoy!

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