Looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth but at the same time offer a number of nutritional benefits?
Then this nutty treat may be a great option for you. These crunchy, sweet walnuts can be consumed on their own or added to your favourite greens as a crunchy salad topper (my favourite!).
Walnuts are one of nature’s most delicious and nutritious foods. A small daily amount (about 7-8 shelled walnuts) has been proven to offer a number of nutrients and health benefits. It is an excellent source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids (providing over 100% of your daily need). Walnuts are a source of plant protein, fibre, antioxidants and plant sterols. In addition, they have a good amount of copper, manganese, molybdenum, biotin and a unique source of vitamin E.
Research has identified benefits for weight management, heart health, reproduction and brain function and for such conditions as cancer, obesity and diabetes.
With the walnuts topped with hemp seeds you are adding more protein (one of the best plant sources), balanced omega 3’s and gamma linoleic acid and vitamin E.
Although walnuts and hemp seeds are wonderful on their own, adding a little local maple syrup can turn these 2 power packed foods into a delicious treat.
Only 10 minutes from start to finish, it is well worth a try (or taste for that matter!).
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups of walnut pieces (or chop walnut halves into smaller chunks)
- 2 tbsp of real maple syrup (or enough to coat the walnuts)
- 2 pinches of fine grain sea salt
- 1 tsp coconut oil
- 1 ½ tbsp hemp hearts
Directions:
- Chop walnuts into pieces and place in a bowl
- Add maple syrup and salt to walnuts and mix until evenly coated
- Heat coconut oil in a small pan over medium heat
- Add the walnut mixture
- Cook for approx. 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure the syrup does not burn
- Remove from heat and mix in the hemp seeds
- Spread mixture evenly on parchment paper and let cool for 10-15 minutes
- Enjoy right away or store for later!
Dr. Cali maintains a private practice in Guelph, Ontario. She is truly passionate about helping her patients develop and achieve their health goals. She implements patient-centred care utilizing a variety of treatment modalities including: clinical nutrition and diet counseling; acupuncture and Traditional Chinese medicine; herbal medicine; homeopathy; and lifestyle counseling. She has also received additional training in Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture, Natural Fertility and Applied Kinesiology. Her practice includes particular focus on women’s health, pediatrics and digestive health.
Her mission to inspire and reinvent wellbeing was reinforced by her trip to Kenya and the naturopathic work she completed with the organization, Foundation for Integrative Medicine in Africa (FIMAfrica).
Dr. Cali also enjoys engaging her local community through specialized talks and outreach. In addition, also maintains the role as National Scientific Advisor for the professional nutraceutical company, Cyto-Matrix.
She has a personal interest in plant-based foods and continually expands her vegan culinary skills in her kitchen. She frequently shares her cooking journeys with her patients to show them accessible ways to prepare hearty, healthy and delicious whole food dishes. She encourages clean eating while maintaining the importance of passionate eating.
Michelle is registered with the Board of Directors of Drugless Therapy – Naturopathy (BDDT-N) and is an active member of the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND), Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors (OAND) and Association of Perinatal Naturopathic Doctors (APND).
