by Gabriella Vigoreaux, EPICURIOUS
Last year supergreens were all the rage, but this year we're thinking a little smaller -- we're thinking superseeds. Never have such tiny foods packed such a nutritious punch. Superseeds (like flax, chia, sunflower, and pumpkin seeds) are chock full of dietary fiber, protein, iron, and healthy fats, so why wouldn't you sprinkle them on everything? You've probably seen them in your favorite energy bar or granola, but these little guys are versatile enough to go on smoothies, salads, and even desserts.
1. Hemp Seeds
This super seed mix features hemp, fennel, sesame, chia, AND pumpkin seeds. Add it to yogurt, smoothies, salads, or sprinkle it on muffins or other baked goods before baking for added crunch.
You can snack on this savory, spicy, and nutritious mix all day, but leftovers make a delicious topping for soups, roasted vegetables, or even hot cereals.
2. Pumpkin Seeds
Try this vibrant pesto on everything from pasta and rice to vegetables and fish.
3. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds transform into a gel-like substance after they've been soaked. Soaking them helps break them down so you can reap the full nutritional benefits and also helps to thicken up the smoothie a bit, so don't skip this step!
Thanks to the magical powers of chia seeds, there are no raw eggs in this cheesecake batter, so you can sample it all you want.
An avocado, yogurt, and chia seed dressing stands in for mayo in this healthy update on potato salad.
4. Sunflower Seeds
This salad is jam packed with sprouts, seeds, and nuts. Consider it your new go-to powerhouse lunch.
We're still obsessed with grain salads over here and this one is equal parts chewy from the barley, crunchy from the sunflower seeds, and creamy from the feta.
5. Flax Seeds
These flax-studded crackers are a healthy weekend baking project and go perfectly with your favorite dips and cheeses.
Earthy buckwheat pairs beautifully with red tart fruits, like cherries, in this crumble, which gets topped with a trio of super seeds.
6. Sesame Seeds
When finely ground and added to baked goods, sesame seeds create a deep flavor and gorgeous color to your breads and cakes.
Sesame seeds usually play a supporting role (like on your hamburger buns) but in these sticky, sweet bars they take the lead. Plus, did we mention that insanely delicious raw chocolate drizzle?
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