Chia Seeds

Healthy eaters appreciate them for their nutrients, but chia seeds are more than just superfoods; they also add nutty taste and chewy texture to smoothies, puddings, and more.

While the ancient seeds date back to 3,500 B.C., it wasn't until the 1990s that some enterprising folks decided to make them available commercially-and kudos to them, since chia seeds are all they're cracked up to be. In fact, the Aztecs thought of chia seeds as food for the gods-no doubt because of all the energy the seeds would provide, whether soaked in liquid, ground into flour, or pressed into oil.

You, too, can use chia seeds in many delicious ways, including in granola or other cereals, yogurt or kefir, and even salads. Or try baking them into crackers or breads. But the most traditional way is to soak the seeds in liquid until they are as plump as tapioca pearls. Almond or coconut milk is the most common soaking liquid, but you can find the seeds in fruit juice, lemonade, or iced tea for a spin on "bubble tea." Any way you can get your fill of chia, the better, since they are packed with heart-healthy omega-3s, antioxidants, protein, and fiber.