Spinach in a Hurry (Green Smoothie)

I've been stocking up on healthy, dairy-free snacks in preparation for the arrival of the new baby.  I found several versions of this on Pinterest and had to give it a try.

1 bag frozen spinach
3/4 c peanut butter
1/4 c cocoa powder
1 c almond milk (or more depending on texture)
(3 servings)

Puree until smooth.  I did mine in a food processor, because I thought my hand might vibrate off if I used my trusty old stick blender.  I added most ingredients until it tasted just right, then split it into three jars for the freezer.  They thaw pretty well in just about 30 minutes (about the time it takes me to get lunches packed and everything else ready), then I've got some easy veggies and protein!

Light Split Pea Soup

1 package mixed vegetables (I used the Whole Foods 365 California blend with broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots)
1 c precooked turkey bacon
1 c caramelized onions
2 c dried split peas, rinsed
2 tbs dried thyme
2 bay leaves
2 cans chicken broth
1 c water

Mix all ingredients in the slow cooker, cook on low for 8-10 hours.

Note:  If you're pressed for time but don't have leftover caramelized onions sitting around, you can microwave them with some olive oil and the thyme for 4-5 minutes prior to adding them.  It's not the same exact flavor, but it's still pretty good!

Turkey Bacon in the Oven

I make this nearly every weekend.  The bacon is great with eggs or pancakes, and the leftovers are great in salads or soups throughout the rest of the week.

1 package of turkey bacon

Preheat oven to 325F.  Lay bacon slides on a cookie sheet with rims, or a jelly roll pan, with the sides barely overlapping.  Cook 30-40 minutes, checking often.  Remove when they're as crisp as you like them.  Drain on a wire rack.

Orange and Cardamom Chia Seed Pudding

1 c almond milk
1 tbs vanilla extract
2 tsp sugar substitute (Equal, agave nectar, etc)
pinch salt
1 tsp orange extract
1 tsp ground cardamom
1 tsp vanilla
3 tbs chia seeds

Vanilla Chia Seed Pudding

1 c almond milk
1 tbs vanilla extract
2 tsp sugar substitute (Equal, agave nectar, etc)
pinch salt
1 tsp vanilla
3 tbs chia seeds

Great with berries.

Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding

1 c almond milk
1 tbs vanilla extract
2 tsp sugar substitute (Equal, agave nectar, etc)
pinch salt
2 tbs cocoa powder
1 tsp vanilla
3 tbs chia seeds

Mix together.  I make these in glass jars - start with a fork, then close the lid tightly and shake.  Refrigerate overnight.