This month we introduce Rebecca Giese as our new monthly contributor. Her talents are extensive and we can’t wait to see what she shares for months to come. With no further ado, here’s Rebecca…
Currently residing in Hartsville, South Carolina, I love exploring the Pee Dee area, shopping local artisans, trying new restaurants and finding inspiration from the history and culture all around me. When I’m not out on Pee Dee adventures, I spend my time looking up recipes, curating the perfect outfit and sharing it all on my lifestyle blog Southern’spirations. I can’t wait to now share my thoughts, favorite local spots and so much more here in Rebecca’s Corner.
You can’t go anywhere right now without seeing bright red boxes filled with delicious chocolate morsels, conversation hearts, and oversized teddy bears. Right when we think we kicked those sugar cravings brought on by the holiday season, Valentine’s Day comes around to test us once more. With Valentine and Galentine celebrations around the corner, you might be preparing to take a dish to an upcoming event or maybe trying to impress your loved one with a five-course meal. Well, I have a healthier dessert alternative for you!
This no-bake recipe is also dairy, gluten, egg, sugar (if you use unsweetened almond milk) and soy free for anyone on a Paleo diet, Whole30 or has dietary restrictions. A nutritious twist on the traditional puddings or parfaits, this recipe is high in antioxidants and fiber due to the magical chia seed. When hydrated, the seeds produce a gelatinous coating causing the mixture to thicken without the need for flour or starch. Which is why this recipe is so easy, just let the chia seeds absorb the almond milk and then you have pudding.
Berry Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients: (Makes 4-6 servings)
• 2 cups Almond Milk (I use unsweetened vanilla almond milk; you can use your favorite nut or coconut milk)
• 2/3 cup dry Chia Seeds
• A mix of Strawberries, Blackberries, and Raspberries
• Fresh mint (optional garnish)
Directions:
In a medium bowl mix the chia seeds and the almond milk, cover the bowl and put it in the fridge for at least 3 hours or overnight. At about the halfway point take it out and stir the mixture to make sure there are no clumps or dry seeds from when the seeds set-tled during initial mixing.
After 3 hours or upon serving, scoop the pudding into glasses or bowls for serving. Make sure the pudding is about half an inch or so from the top so that there is room for the berries.
Decorate each cup with an array of berries. Have fun! Play with cutting and fanning the strawberries along solid ones. Once you have the amount and placement down, add fresh mint leaves and stick a few between the berries as garnish.
What’s on My Radar?
Sleeping Beauty February 16 Sumter SC – Performed by the Columbia City Ballet in collaboration with South Carolina Philharmonic
The new mural at Burry Bookstore in Hartsville SC – Stop in for a new book but head around back and take your picture between the huge butterfly wings.
The series “Tidying Up with Maria Kondo” on Netflix has me in a Spring cleaning mood. Before throwing away gently used items, donate to your local shelter or clothing drive.