As we say goodbye to winter and hello to spring, you may realize it’s time to switch from your winter wardrobe to your spring attire. But the clothes we wear aren’t the only things we can switch out. Food is also a major part of our change into the seasons. Certain foods are best eaten during this time of the year. So it’s best to strike when the time is ripe. The best part is, even if you are starting a diet, there are some seasonal dishes that can meet the standards of your diet, such as gluten-free and vegetarian. Here are five spring dishes that fall into gluten-free and vegetarian.
Mint Chocolate Cheesecake Parfaits
This dish is perfect on a warm spring day, and a great way to end any meal.
RAW CHOCOLATE CRUST
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup almonds, ground
3/4 cup pitted, packed dates
1/4 cup cacao powder
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Crush the almonds in the food processor, add ingredients and 1-2 teaspoons of water if needed and mix to combine well. Press ‘dough’ to see if it sticks together a little.
Spread out evenly into little dishes, that are freezer safe and press evenly into the bottom of each dish. I made six in mine – but they were quite big for a single serving – they ended up being ‘shared’ between a couple 😉 So because you’re doing individual portions, keep the size of your dishes in mind – smaller is best. (portion control is easier! 😉
RAW VEGAN CHEESECAKE MINT FILLING
INGREDIENTS:
2 1/2 cups cashews
1 cup lightly packed mint leaves
1 cup water
1/3 cup + 2 tablespoons coconut nectar or honey
5-8 drops mint essential oil, or to taste
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch of Himalayan salt
3 tablespoons coconut oil, warmed slightly so it’s liquid