09/05/12 - 0 Comments
The Perfect Parfait
The perfect parfait requires just three basic ingredients: yogurt, fruit and granola. However, these ingredients are only the beginning, as you can mix and match the flavors of fruit and yogurt, opt for dairy-free varieties and even replace the granola with other goodies. Here are four parfait ideas that you should try the next time you’re having breakfast, a snack, an after-workout treat or dessert!
Very Berry Breakfast
Strawberries, blueberries and blackberries are the most popular choices when it comes to making the traditional breakfast parfait. Packed with nutritional benefits, these fruits are known for their antioxidants and will keep your skin glowing. An ideal day starter, having a very berry breakfast parfait will kick off your morning with good-for-you ingredients: berries and yogurt! You mustn’t forget to add the granola in yummy—and attractive—layers. We recommend granola by Baked NYC, which comes in three tasty flavors, fresh organic fruit from the Greenmarket and coconut “yogurt” by So Delicious Dairy Free. For added decadence, pluck a sprig of mint to top it off. Voilà!
Savory Snackin’
When it comes to your midday fix, the first thing that probably pops into your head is a bag of chips. If you still crave a savory treat, while thinking about your waistline, a pretzel parfait could be your snackin’ solution. Stacking your parfait with yogurt and fruits will have you feeling guilt-free. Dust it with some mini salted pretzels and your parfait is complete! We love anything gourmet, and these one-of-a-kind Dean and Deluca Gourmet Pretzels are great to crush and crumble on top of your parfait. Since this dish is less sweet, replacing your everyday yogurt with Greek yogurt will compliment salted pretzels perfectly. You could even go a little wild and add chocolate-covered pretzels for a extra indulgence.
Post Workout Walnut Power
Instead of protein drinks, have a protein-packed parfait for your after gym snack. Walnuts are heart healthy, a source of protein and rich in vitamins. They are also a popular choice when layering your parfait, as they fit well with granola and any fruit, even—especially?—dried. They also complement the sweetness of chocolate chips. This walnut parfait is super for satisfying a hungry stomach after a workout, and it can also be eaten a few hours prior to the gym, as the walnuts give you a boost of strength. Mix the walnuts with other nuts, such as almonds, to have a very protein-packed parfait.
Pudding Dessert Parfait
Curling up on the couch with a comforting dessert is what everyone needs after a long day of work (or during Fashion Week!). A pudding parfait is not your typical strain of parfait because, instead of yogurt, there are layers of rich pudding. You can try the store-bought variety (we love Zen pudding made with soy or their new chocolate almond pudding) or you can make your own. Get creative by combining granola replacements, such as crumbled Oreos, graham crackers or even some Pizzelle cookies, to complement the thick pudding. Berries or peaches will also go well with the layers, and perhaps a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce to finish off this parfait beautifully.
Photo credit: Pinterest, FuFood, Martha Stewart
