Seeking Joyful Simplicity

Your best life after 40 - living with purpose and vibrant health. Empowering you with a holistic approach: nourishing foods, herbal remedies, and self-care to reduce overwhelm, manage your weight, and enjoy vibrant health in your 40's, 50's, and beyond.

Simple Food

Real Food Valentine Treats – Paleo, Vegan, and Dairy-Free

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Indulge with real food valentine treats. These 9 decadent recipes offer vegan, paleo, gluten and dairy-free choices.

 

All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt ~ Charles Schulz

Indulge with real food valentine treats. These 9 decadent recipes offer vegan, paleo, gluten and dairy-free choices. Indulge yourself and share the love!

Real Food Valentine Treats

Food Smart Mom shares the love with her Coconut Butter Chocolate Hearts – a Real Food treat!

Coconut Butter Chocolate Hearts

 

 

Kara shares her dairy-free Red Velvet Ice Cream. Only six ingredients for a creamy, delightful treat!

Dairy-Free Red Velvet Ice Cream

 

 

Life Infused created a unique and tasty Strawberry Rose Granola.

Rose adds a light floral flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of maple syrup and tartness of freeze-dried strawberries. Add a little chocolate and you’ve created a synergistic love blend – an ideal Valentine’s Day breakfast!

Strawberry Rose Granola

 

 

Raising Generation Nourished has a great Gluten Free Valentine’s Sugar Cookie with Naturally Dyed Frosting. 

 

Gluten Free Valentine’s Sugar Cookie with Naturally Dyed Frosting. 

 

Forest and Fauna offers her two ingredient strawberry truffles – paleo, low carb, and vegan.

Two Ingredient Strawberry Truffles

 

 

And then there are Forest and Fauna’s Sea Salt Chocolate Caramels. My personal favorite – salty and sweet!

Sea Salt Chocolate Caramels

 

 

TJ at Measuring Flower has created delicious Vanilla Bean Coconut Sugar Caramels.

Vanilla Bean Coconut Sugar Caramels 

 

 

Brittany at the Pistachio Project confesses her love for Conversation Hearts and shares her Real Food Version – Coconut Berry Hearts.

Coconut Berry Hearts

 

 

Erin at Texanerin Baking shares her Healthier Raspberry Truffles (vegan, paleo-friendly, dairy-free)

Healthier Raspberry Truffles

 

Happy Valentine’s Day!
~Michelle

 

 

Soaked Grain Yogurt Herb Bread

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This is a great recipe using yogurt to help break down the phytic acid found in grains. Phytic acid is considered an "anti-nutrient" because it interferes with the absorption of the vitamins and minerals found in whole grains. Historically, breads were made with soaked grains, allowing the breakdown of these phytic acids and an increase in vitamin levels. Soaking also allows for a more tender baked product, more like a bread made with white flour. Which is why this whole grain yogurt herb bread is so soft and tender (and good for you!)

 

Yogurt herb bread is moist and delicious, and so easy to make! Double the recipe and freeze a loaf for later.

This is a great recipe using yogurt to help break down the phytic acid found in grains. Phytic acid is considered an “anti-nutrient” because it interferes with the absorption of the vitamins and minerals found in whole grains. Historically, breads were made with soaked grains, allowing the breakdown of these phytic acids and an increase in vitamin levels. Soaking also allows for a more tender baked product, more like a bread made with white flour. Which is why this whole grain yogurt herb bread is so soft and tender (and good for you!)

The lactobacilli found in the yogurt also help break down the complex starches, irritating tannins and difficult-to digest proteins that are present in most breads.

OK, so this bread is healthy, but it is also great tasting! It goes well with soups and salads, and we enjoy it warmed with butter and cream cheese on top. During baking, the herbs will fill the house with a pleasant aroma, making you happy to be at home.

The recipe comes from Sally Fallon’s Nourishing Traditions. Because it is so moist, for my last batch I divided it into two bread pans, so the centers come out done without overcooking the tops of the breads.

YOGURT HERB BREAD

Makes 1 9×4-inch pan or two half pans.

3 cups freshly ground spelt, kamut, or whole wheat flour
2 cups plain whole yogurt
1/2 cup filtered water
3 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/4 stick melted butter
1/3 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon dried dill
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon basil
1/2 teaspoon tarragon

Mix flour with yogurt and water, cover and leave in a warm place for 12-24 hours. The bread will rise better if soaked for 24-hours.

Place flour mixture in food processor and process for several minutes. (I skip this step and mix by hand.)

Add the remaining ingredients and process until well blended. Pour into well-buttered and floured loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for at least 1 1/2 hours, or until toothpick comes out clean. When I divided my mix between two pans this last batch, mine were done in less than an hour.

Excellent paired with homemade carrot ginger soup.

Yogurt Herb Bread with Seasonal Soup

 

Want to give it a try?
Let me know how you enjoy it, and any ideas for recipes to pair it with.

In health and happiness,
~ Michelle

Hibiscus Cranberry Sauce – A Special Holiday Recipe

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Want a truly unique addition to your holiday meal this year? This hibiscus cranberry sauce is beautiful, delicious, and good for you. A fun and unique way to add herbs to your diet is to include them in your recipes. This herbal cranberry sauce is delicious and beautiful. Let the combination of sweet and tart flavors compliment your holiday meals.

Want a truly unique addition to your holiday meal this year? This hibiscus cranberry sauce is beautiful, delicious, and good for you. A fun and unique way to add herbs to your diet is to include them in your recipes. This herbal cranberry sauce is delicious and beautiful. Let the combination of sweet and tart flavors compliment your holiday meals.

 

The content on this site may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I receive a small commission at no cost to you. SeekingJoyfulSimplicity.com is a participant in the Amazon Services Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Thank you for you for supporting Seeking Joyful Simplicity. ~ Michelle

Herbal Cranberry Sauce

Hibiscus sabradiffa, or Roselle, is a beautiful flowering plant that is cultivated world-wide and used for cooking, making beverages, and for it’s medicinal value and the stunning color it adds to foods and beverages. Roselle has become one of my favorite herbs to grow and use, and I encourage you to consider adding it to your home garden and apothecary.

Want a truly unique addition to your holiday meal this year? This hibiscus cranberry sauce is beautiful, delicious, and good for you. A fun and unique way to add herbs to your diet is to include them in your recipes. This herbal cranberry sauce is delicious and beautiful. Let the combination of sweet and tart flavors compliment your holiday meals.

Hibiscus Cranberry Sauce – pdf easy print recipe

This hibiscus side dish recipe is easy to make. If you need dried Hibiscus flowers, you can order them online. Frontier Hibiscus Flowers Cut and Sifted Organic, 1 Pound

Ingredients

1/3 cup of Hibiscus flowers dried and in a muslin or cheesecloth bag
Bag of cranberries, fresh or frozen (10-12 ounces)
1/3 – 1/2 cup water
1/2 cup of sugar, or more to balance the tart and sweet to your liking
1 Tablespoon lime juice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder

Directions

In a saucepan, place the bag with the Hibiscus, add the cranberries, water, sugar, and lime juice. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once the cranberries begin to soften, there will be more liquid. Bring to a boil for 15 minutes and stir as it thickens.

Allow to cool and discard the bag of Hibiscus. Add the cinnamon and chill until ready to serve.

Health Benefits of this recipe:

Cranberries are high in vitamin C and antioxidants.  A small serving is packed with beneficial phytochemicals which studies suggest are anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and linked to reduced urinary tract infections.

Adding Hibiscus offers the following benefits:

  • Powerful Antioxidants
  • May slow the release of glucose into the blood stream after a meal
  • Strong Anti-inflammatory
  • Antimicrobial – bacteria, fungus, and virus
  • Anticancer
  • Reduce risk and complication of cardiovascular disease

But really, the best reason to enjoy Hibiscus Cranberry Sauce? It makes a beautiful side dish to your holiday meal and the combination of tart and sweet flavors compliments any main course.

 

Women of Power Balls – Herbal Health Treats

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Power balls, or Zoom balls as herbalist Rosemary Gladstar calls them, are a delightful way to treat your mind and body with medicinal herbs. They are a combination of nut butter, natural sweetener, and powdered herbs. Adaptogen herbs are perfect for helping us ignite our inner woman of power and offer the following benefits: • Increase our energy • Build our resistance to stress • Support the heart • Increase endurance and stamina • Improve memory • Stimulate the immune system

Women of Power Balls – Herbal Health Treats

Power balls, or Zoom balls as herbalist Rosemary Gladstar calls them, are a delightful way to treat your mind and body with medicinal herbs. They are a combination of nut butter, natural sweetener, and powdered herbs.

You can vary the recipe depending on what type of nut butter you want to use, the herbal benefits you are looking for, and you can dress them up with chocolate, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom.

Nut butters you can use include:

  • Almond butter
  • Peanut butter
  • Cashew butter
  • Sunflower seed butter

Sweeteners can be:

  • Raw honey
  • Real maple syrup

I recommend using adaptogen herbs – these herbs are deeply nourishing to the body, help us cope with stress, and are safe to take over long periods of time. You can learn about more herbs specific for women in my post – 10 Herbs for Menopause – How to Stay Sane When Your Hormones are Making You Crazy.

Power balls, or Zoom balls as herbalist Rosemary Gladstar calls them, are a delightful way to treat your mind and body with medicinal herbs. They are a combination of nut butter, natural sweetener, and powdered herbs. Adaptogen herbs are perfect for helping us ignite our inner woman of power and offer the following benefits: • Increase our energy • Build our resistance to stress • Support the heart • Increase endurance and stamina • Improve memory • Stimulate the immune system

The content on this site may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I receive a small commission at no cost to you. SeekingJoyfulSimplicity.com is a participant in the Amazon Services Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Thank you for you for supporting Seeking Joyful Simplicity. ~ Michelle

Adaptogen herbs are perfect for helping us ignite our inner woman of power and offer the following benefits:

  • Increase our energy
  • Build our resistance to stress
  • Support the heart
  • Increase endurance and stamina
  • Improve memory
  • Stimulate the immune system

Recommended Powdered Adaptogen Herbs:

For these Power Balls, we will use:
Click HERE for a pdf recipe to print.

Directions:

  1. Over low heat, gently warm the nut butter and honey mixture. Just warm enough to make them soft and easier to mix. Once combined, remove from heat.
  2. In a second bowl, stir together the powdered herbs and spices.
  3. Slowly add the powdered ingredients into the nut butter/honey mixture until a thick paste forms.
  4. Once the mixture has cooled, add the cocoa nibs (adding too soon will make a gooey mess).
  5. Form the paste into 1-inch balls. If you like, you can roll these in cocoa or shredded coconut.
  6. Store the balls in an airtight container and enjoy 2-3 daily.

Power balls, or Zoom balls as herbalist Rosemary Gladstar calls them, are a delightful way to treat your mind and body with medicinal herbs. They are a combination of nut butter, natural sweetener, and powdered herbs. Adaptogen herbs are perfect for helping us ignite our inner woman of power and offer the following benefits: • Increase our energy • Build our resistance to stress • Support the heart • Increase endurance and stamina • Improve memory • Stimulate the immune system

 

I encourage you to give these power balls a try. You can feel good about treating yourself with these deeply healing and nourishing herbs. For more information on my favorite four herbs for stress and the four simple remedies I enjoy for coping with overwhelming stress – 4 Herbal Remedies for Stress.

Wishing you health and joy,
~ Michelle

If you want to learn more about using herbs and herbal recipes, the Herbal Academy offers beautiful online courses for all levels with plenty of easy recipes to get you started.

Click on the image for more information.

Herbalist Courses for all levels

 

Please Note: the information provided here is not intended to replace professional medical advice and care. It is simply my perspective for you to consider as you make good choices for you and your family’s health. The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and maintaining health. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and can interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should take herbs with care. The information provided has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not meant to diagnose any disease, nor is it intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Seek the support and care of a physician and/or complementary care practitioner you trust, and above all, listen to and trust in yourself. Be well!

Roasted Root Vegetables with Ginger Tamari Dressing

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A simple, nourishing, recipe combining roasted root vegetables with a tangy ginger tamari dressing. Choose a variety of vegetables for a rainbow of colors. I recommend making plenty for leftovers – the flavors get better!

 

A simple, nourishing, recipe combining roasted winter vegetables with a tangy ginger tamari dressing. Choose a variety of vegetables for a rainbow of colors. I recommend making plenty for leftovers - the flavors get better!

The suggested vegetables for this recipe are flexible – use what you have and what you enjoy – a little of this, and a little of that. Perfect way to try new varieties. Click here for a Roasted Winter Vegetables with Ginger Tamari Dressing easy-to-print file.

My friend Krista Rahm from Forrest Green Farm shared this recipe with me.

Suggested Vegetables:
Sweet potato
Acorn squash
Butternut squash
Cauliflower
Onion
Celery
Fennel bulb
Turnip
Carrot
*Beets – roast beets separately to avoid bleeding purple over the other vegetables
– wrap beets in foil, roast at 450 degrees until soft when pierced with a knife. Cool, peel skins, and chop, adding to other vegetables at the end.

 

To Make Dressing:

The first time I made this, there wasn’t enough of the dressing, so now I make double – 1/2 for the roasting and 1/2 for serving. If you want extra dressing, double the recipe below.

1/2 cup brown rice vinegar (or regular rice vinegar)
1/2 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons tamari
1 teaspoon thyme
salt and pepper to taste

Place all the dressing ingredients in a jar and mix well.

Directions:
Line a roasting pan with foil.
Cut the vegetables into cubes. With half the dressing, toss the vegetables.
Roasting time will vary, depending on your vegetables – at least an hour typically. Check periodically for tenderness.
Add remaining dressing when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions:
These roasted vegetables make a great side dish, and the flavor improves as leftovers. Also excellent served over salad, rice, quinoa, in a wrap, or on bread for a veggie sandwich.

Do you have a favorite winter vegetable recipe?

~Michelle

 

Pumpkin Seed Cilantro Pesto

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A friend shared this amazing autumn pesto recipe and I love it! So easy and delicious, I enjoy this pumpkin seed cilantro pesto on fresh-baked bread, over pasta, mixed with cooked vegetables, as a topping for my morning eggs and more.

So easy and delicious, I enjoy this pumpkin seed cilantro pesto on fresh-baked bread, over pasta, mixed with cooked vegetables, as a topping for my morning eggs and more.

 

Not only is this autumn pesto recipe ridiculously easy and delicious, it has some great health benefits as well.

Pumpkin Seed Health Benefits

  • Magnesium rich
  • High in zinc
  • Plant source of omega-3 fatty acids
  • Good source of fiber

Cilantro Health Benefits

  • High in essential vitamins and minerals including: A, C, E, K, calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium
  • Good source of fiber
  • Helps rid the body of heavy metals
  • Strong antioxidant

So easy and delicious, I enjoy this pumpkin seed cilantro pesto on fresh-baked bread, over pasta, mixed with cooked vegetables, as a topping for my morning eggs and more.

Pumpkin Seed Cilantro Pesto Recipe

Click HERE for the printable PDF.

Ingredients

1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
2 cups cilantro leaves
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon coriander
1 clove minced garlic (use Fermented Garlic for a probiotic boost)

Instructions

  • Infuse the cumin and coriander in the olive oil on low/medium heat for about 1 minute.
  • Turn off the heat and allow to cool, then add your minced garlic.
  • Add pumpkin seeds and cilantro leaves to blender or food processor and pulse a few times.
  • While blending the cilantro and pumpkin seeds, slowly add your olive oil, pausing to scrape down the sides.
  • I store mine in 4-ounce jelly jars and they freeze well too.

Uses:
Serve on bread, pita chips, as a dip for vegetables, on grilled fish, on pasta, and mixed with cooked vegetables.

Do you have a favorite autumn recipe? Let us know!

~ Michelle