Chia Seeds

Salvia hispanica Seed

Chia Seeds Seed

At a Glance

  • Category Seed

The Forktionary Angle

"The tiny seed with mighty nutritional powers."

Definition

Tiny, highly nutritious seeds from a desert plant, known for their ability to absorb liquid and form a gel, rich in fiber and omega-3s.

Dietary Fiber Contains 10g of fiber per 2 tbsp (28g) serving.
Liquid Absorption Absorbs up to 12 times its weight in liquid.
Omega-3 Content Excellent plant-based source of Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA).

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Chia Seeds are:

Neutral slightly nutty

Chef’s Secret

To create a quick, healthy gel for thickening, whisk 1 tablespoon of chia seeds into 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.

Best Substitutes

Ground Flax Seeds

ratio for gelling, needs to be ground
Ratio 1:1

Psyllium Husk

.5 ratio, adjust liquid carefully
Ratio 1:0

Buying Guide

Purchase organic and ethically sourced when possible; store in a cool, dark, dry place in an airtight container.

Recipes Using Chia Seeds

Healthy 2 3 Steps Or Less Infant Baby Friendly Beverages

Emerald Ecstasy Green Smoothie

Wow your taste buds with the Emerald Ecstasy Green Smoothie! This vibrant, bright green smoothie is a crowd-pleaser, boasting a surprisingly delicious flavor that will leave you wanting more. Developed and perfected for optimal blending in a Vitamix (64 oz. container), this recipe's unique ingredient blend creates a texture and taste sensation unlike any other. Discover the secret to creating this show-stopping smoothie – perfect for your next healthy gathering or as a refreshing treat.

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15 Minutes Or Less Course Preparation 3 Steps Or Less

April's Healthy Snack Mix

This incredibly easy and delicious snack mix was a huge hit with my family and friends – and it will be with yours too! A perfect blend of sweet and savory, it's the ideal healthy snack for movie nights, parties, or an afternoon pick-me-up. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Taste Mood 3 Steps Or Less Breakfast Smoothies

A Date With A Banana Smoothie

Start your day the healthy way with this delicious Date & Banana Smoothie! Naturally sweetened and packed with nutrients, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy mornings. Enjoy a creamy, flavorful smoothie in just minutes – the perfect blend of sweet and satisfying.

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Bananas 30 Minutes Or Less Stove Top Egg Free

Banana Coconut Chia Pudding

Indulge in this dreamy, healthy Banana Coconut Chia Pudding! This recipe, inspired by a Natural Health Magazine (Jan/Feb 2013) favorite, is naturally thickened with chia seeds, creating a luxuriously creamy texture without any flour. Perfect for a healthy breakfast, satisfying snack, or delightful dessert. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

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Taste Mood Breakfast Time To Make Course

Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats

Upgrade your breakfast routine with this irresistible Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats recipe! Packed with fiber, omega-3s, and bursting with warm apple cinnamon flavor, this isn't your grandma's oatmeal. Chia seeds and flaxseed meal add a nutritional boost, while the simple steps make it perfect for busy mornings. Get ready for a hearty and healthy breakfast that will keep you full and energized all morning long!

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Dietary Time To Make Lactose Dietary

Adzuki Bean Brownies Gluten Free Vegan Macrobiotic

Tired of the same old brownies? These decadent, gluten-free, and vegan adzuki bean brownies are a game-changer! Rich, fudgy, and surprisingly healthy, they're made with wholesome adzuki beans for a boost of protein and fiber. Naturally sweetened and packed with flavor, these brownies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. Easily adaptable for caffeine sensitivity (use carob powder instead of cocoa!), this recipe is a must-try for health-conscious bakers. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unique and delicious treat! #glutenfree #vegan #adzukibrownies #macrobiotic #healthybrownies #veganbaking #glutenfreebaking

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Pasta Rice And Grains 15 Minutes Or Less Preparation Main Ingredient

Abs Diet Super Food Oatmeal

Fire up your metabolism and sculpt your dream abs with this quick and delicious Abs Diet-approved oatmeal recipe! Packed with protein and fiber, this superfood breakfast will keep you full and energized all morning long. Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe takes just 7 minutes to prepare and is guaranteed to become your new go-to healthy breakfast.

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Vegetarian Fruit Number Of Servings Bananas

Banana Kale Smoothie

This vibrant green smoothie is unbelievably creamy and delicious! Adapted from a blender cookbook and perfected for high-powered blenders (3hp or higher), this recipe delivers a luxuriously smooth and velvety texture that will leave you wanting more. Packed with nutrients from kale and the sweetness of banana, it's the perfect healthy and quick breakfast or snack.

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Number Of Servings 15 Minutes Or Less Easy Number Of Servings

Abs Diet Ultimate Power Smoothie

Blast your way to a healthier you with this invigorating Abs Diet Ultimate Power Smoothie! Inspired by the best-selling "The Abs Diet" book, this quick and easy recipe is packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients to fuel your day and support your fitness goals. Perfect for a pre- or post-workout boost, or a healthy and delicious anytime snack. Get ready to feel the power!

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Preparation Dietary Time To Make Beginner Cook

Banana Coconut Fitness Booster

Fuel your body with this delicious and easy Banana Coconut Fitness Booster! This post-workout beverage is packed with natural energy, perfect for replenishing after a hard workout or as a healthy pick-me-up anytime. Sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup, it's the ultimate guilt-free treat.

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5 Ingredients Or Less 3 Steps Or Less Time To Make For 1 Or 2

Berry Healthy Smoothie High Protein

Fuel your body with this delicious and nutritious Berry Healthy High-Protein Smoothie! Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and protein, it's the perfect quick and healthy breakfast, post-workout recovery drink, or anytime snack. This recipe is easy to make, tastes amazing, and will keep you feeling full and energized all day long. Get your berry fix and boost your protein intake – try it today!

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Beans Time To Make Easy Preparation

Alton Brown's Protein Bars

Fuel your body with Alton Brown's incredible protein bars, a healthy and delicious recipe inspired by his Good Eats show! These energy bars are perfect for pre- or post-workout snacks, hiking adventures, or a quick and nutritious breakfast. Made with wholesome ingredients and packed with protein, these bars are surprisingly easy to make and taste amazing!

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Course 15 Minutes Or Less Low Sodium Healthy 2

Abs Diet Better Breakfast Smoothie

Fuel your day in under 5 minutes with this incredibly delicious and healthy Abs Diet Better Breakfast Smoothie! Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe is packed with protein and nutrients to keep you feeling full and energized. Get the flat abs you've always wanted – start your day the healthy way!

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Preparation Desserts 30 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient

Almost Healthy And Surprisingly Good Chocolate Chip Cookies

Craving delicious chocolate chip cookies without the guilt? This recipe delivers! Inspired by several healthy recipes and my family's love for wholesome ingredients, these cookies are a delightful surprise. While featuring some unique additions like chia seeds and food-grade diatomaceous earth (easily omitted or substituted!), the focus remains on flavor. We're not sacrificing taste for health here! This recipe isn't ideal for raw cookie dough lovers – the dough is a bit unique. But, once baked? Pure perfection! Indulge in your favorite chocolate chips – dark chocolate is extra healthy, but any kind will do. Learn how to make chia gel (a nutritional powerhouse!) and elevate your baking game. This recipe provides detailed instructions and ingredient measurements, making it easy to follow and enjoy.

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Easy Easy Course 5 Ingredients Or Less

Berry Antioxident Heaven Smoothie

Boost your daily dose of antioxidants with this incredibly delicious berry smoothie! Packed with vibrant mixed berries, this recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a healthy breakfast, post-workout treat, or anytime you need a nutritious energy boost. Naturally sweet and bursting with flavor, it's the ultimate antioxidant powerhouse!

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Kid Friendly Healthy 2 Tropical Fruit Granola And Porridge

Another Bircher Muesli

This delicious Bircher Muesli recipe, adapted from the Australian Women's Weekly, is a simple and healthy breakfast or snack the whole family will love! Made with pantry staples, it requires minimal prep and is ready in minutes after a quick overnight soak. Even picky eaters will gobble this up (toddler-approved!). Perfect for busy mornings!

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3 Steps Or Less Course Easy For 1 Or 2

Aunt Joanie's Weight Watcher 2 5 Points Antioxident Friendly Berry Smoothie

This delicious and refreshing berry smoothie is a Weight Watchers-friendly treat, clocking in at just 2.5 points per serving! Aunt Joanie's secret recipe is packed with antioxidants thanks to the blueberries (but feel free to experiment with your favorite frozen berries). Perfect as a filling mid-morning snack or a light dessert, this easy 5-minute smoothie will become your new go-to healthy indulgence. Get ready for a burst of fruity flavor and a boost of energy!

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