By Kaori Kay Cheslock, RHNC
The day to celebrate those we love and warm some hearts (formally known as Valentine’s Day) is around the corner.
Recent events have changed things significantly for many of us – necessary changes to cope with the situation we’re experiencing now – potentially making existing relationships stronger, or perhaps highlighting where changes need to be made. Either way, this unusual year can be seen as an eye opening one.
Over the past 12 months, we’ve recognized and celebrated events in a new way; this special day coming up will be the last occasion to conclude a whole year of adapting to necessary changes to do so. We know by now we can enjoy ourselves in our own way – over this past year, we have come to understand celebrating differently can be just as memorable and joy filled as those momentous occasions enjoyed in past years.
Yes, Valentine’s Day 2021 will look different for many across the world. Some of us are fortunate enough to spend time with a loving partner, some are not able to do so while respecting the precaution protocols in their area. You may be someone who spends a lot of time with a partner while working from home now, or – completely opposite – you may not be able to see him or her in person just yet – either way, you have likely experienced new relationship dynamics. Accentuating the positive (as we like to do), throughout the ups and downs, this evolving situation provided us with an opportunity to learn more about each other.
This Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show appreciation and continuous support for those we hold dear… and Valentine’s Day is not only a day for romantic relationships. Far from it.
Valentine’s Day is an important opportunity for us all to celebrate kindness and compassion in the world. We should absolutely take this opportunity to spread love with important family & friends in our life!
With this in mind, of course, some of us like to watch what we give to our loved ones when we think of treats. Many of us ponder, “Should I make traditional sugary desserts, or promote healthier snacks that are equally as festive (strawberry and bocconcini cheese skewers anyone?).” “Nutritious snacks are better for their health… but I want to make something that satisfies their taste buds….”
Well, with a bit of creativity, you can do both!
It’s definitely possible to make something that satisfies our sweet tooth while also staying mindful of nutrition. Without further adieu, we would like to share our fun and super simple Edible Double Chocolate Cookie Dough recipe.
Macros per Serving (1/5 of total recipe)
Calories: 414
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 57 g
Sugar: 36 g
Fibre: 3 g
Edible Double Chocolate Cookie Dough
Ingredients
- 540 mL canned chickpeas (~4 cups)
- 50 grams unsweetened cocoa powder (~1/2 cup)
- 113 grams pitted medjool dates (~1/2 cup)
- 55 grams sugar-free syrup (~1/4 cup)
- 170 grams white chocolate chips (~1 cup)
- sea salt to taste
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas
- Transfer the chickpeas into a food processor along with all of the ingredients aside from the chocolate chips
- Pulse to roughly process, turning the food processor off at times to scrape the dough from the sides to ensure even mixing. Add a little bit of water to achieve desired consistency (Some like it smooth, some prefer it chunky – the choice is yours!)
- Transfer the contents of the food processor to a large mixing bowl. Add chocolate chips and mix gently with a spatula to evenly combine
- Divide the “cookie dough” per serving into small mason jars or Tupperware to enjoy for the next week. Store in the fridge.