This is such a simple and beautiful chia seed pudding recipe for a morning, oceanic chia pudding. Chia seeds are packed with nutrition, and the spirulina powders boost the recipes’ already amazing health properties. As well as creating gorgeous colors, of course. The maple syrup and vanilla create a lovely subtle sweet flavor while being refined sugar-free.
Usually, my chia pudding recipes tend to be layered with a smoothie topping. However, sometimes I like to create something a bit different, and this oceanic layered chia pudding is a perfect example of that. Using green and blue spirulina (blue-green algae), I’ve boosted the nutritional value, while also making it look beautiful. After all, we eat with our eyes too.
Chia pudding is a delicious, simple meal that you can meal-prep as a healthy breakfast, snack, or dessert. You can also customize it in a variety of delicious ways. Within this particular easy layered chia pudding, I’ve used a mixture of blue and green spirulina to add extra nutritional value to the dish.
I include a whole section on the health benefits of spirulina in my Mint Smoothie layered chia pudding post. So, if you want to check that out, then you can there. Within this recipe, I’m using a combination of blue and green spirulina.
Blue vs Green Spirulina
As far as I can tell, there are a lot of similarities between the two. Many people say that they find that blue spirulina doesn’t have the same ‘fishy’ taste as green spirulina. I have to be honest; I find the blue spirulina that I use smells a bit stronger. However, I am thankful to say, that I have never used enough spirulina in creation to ever taste ‘fishy’ -ness.
I think it’s all about smart recipe creation to make sure that you get the health benefits without the smell or flavor affecting your dish.
Blue spirulina also has many of the same health benefits as green spirulina, including being packed with B vitamins (which boost energy). It is also an excellent Vegan source of B12, which is rare in the vegan diet.
Blue spirulina is also a good source of antioxidants, for overall improved health and is a source of protein. Around 60% of spirulina (both blue and green varieties) is protein while you’re only using tiny amounts in any recipe, every little help.
There are also studies showing that blue spirulina can be beneficial to gut health. The chlorophyll found within spirulina helps promote healthy bacteria in the gut and generally improve digestion and bowel health.
The last thing I wanted to mention about spirulina is its ability to bind to toxins and heavy metals.
On the plus side, this works in the body too, binding to toxins and helping remove them from the body.
However, there has also been some debate over spirulina types and where they are grown. Unfortunately, pesticides and fertilizers in areas nearby to where the algae are growing can leech into the plant. Thus, this can then have adverse effects on the body.
One of the best ways to avoid this would be to make sure you buy spirulina from a good source. Organic burst (who actually sell spirulina too), has an article on their site on how to ensure your spirulina comes from a clean source.
Alternatively, I tend to just do a bit of research before buying any. Many brands will now talk about the growing conditions with the product description and even mention testing the algae for heavy metals etc. Which is always a good sign.
Don’t be put off though as there are plenty of great spirulina sources.
Chia Pudding Benefits
This is something I’ve talked about before a lot too- particularly in this Detox smoothie layered chia pudding post. I’m not going to repeat myself too much here other than to say that eating chia seeds is incredibly nutritious. They are packed with healthy protein, fiber and a variety of vitamins and minerals.
This includes being beneficial for a variety of ailments (including type 2 diabetes) and improving health in many ways. For example, being a healthy source of omega-3 fatty acids, which is beneficial for heart health.
Chia pudding is a wonderful energy-booster for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, the protein and fiber content will help to keep you satiated for longer.
Chia seeds are also incredibly versatile. The seeds themselves don’t have a strong taste and will pick up the flavor of whatever liquid you mix them with.
For anyone put off by the texture of chia pudding, I have a fix too. Blend the chia pudding mix before leaving it to set and you’ll get a more mousse/pudding texture.
How to make this simple Oceanic Chia Seed pudding Recipe
This chia pudding recipe honestly couldn’t get much easier. You simply mix up the chia pudding and add the different spirulina just before serving- voila.
To make the actual chia pudding start by adding chia seeds, the plant-based milk of choice, sweetener of choice, and the vanilla extract or vanilla powder (I used homemade) to a bowl. Mix thoroughly to avoid any clumping of the seeds.
This can then be left to set for around 2 hours covered in the fridge. I like to meal prep a large batch for the week and refrigerate overnight.
When you’re ready to serve it’s time to prepare the chia pudding to create the oceanic effect. To do this simply separate the chia pudding into three separate bowls and add blue spirulina to one and green spirulina to one. Layer either the blue or green layer into your mason jars first.
Follow this with the plain spirulina and then top with the other colored chia pudding.
Now is the fun part, choosing your toppings. I haven’t included any within the recipe itself because this is really up to you. Because this is a very simple layered chia pudding, I like to use toppings to boost the nutritional value. This depends on what I’d like to boost (protein, fiber, etc.)
Some suggestions would include dried, frozen or fresh fruit, or some sprinkles including cacao nibs, coconut flakes, chopped nuts. You can also include a variety of drizzles including homemade nut or seed butter. Sometimes I like to add a dollop of homemade coconut yogurt and a fruit puree with a variety of sprinkles.
Other Chia seed pudding recipes
By now you know I love chia pudding. For some other chia inspiration, you may like this strawberry smoothie layered chia pudding jar. I also have a berry and chocolate smoothie layered chia pudding. You might also like this dragonfruit chia jar.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask them in the comment below. I also love to see pictures of your recreations. You can tag me on Instagram @AlphaFoodie.
Simple Oceanic Chia Recipe
Ingredients
Chia pudding
- 1 cup almond milk or any milk of choice
- 3 Tbsp chia seeds
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract or powder
- 1/2 Tbsp maple syrup or your favourite natural sweetener
For the natural colours
- 1/4 tsp natural green spirulina
- 1/4 tsp natural blue spirulina
Possible toppings (optional):
- few frozen raspberries and kiwi berries
- edible camomile flowers completely optional
Instructions
- To make the actual chia pudding, start by adding chia seeds, the plant-based milk of choice, sweetener of choice, and the vanilla extract or vanilla powder (I used homemade) to a bowl and mix thoroughly, to avoid any clumping.
- This can then be left to set for around 2 hours covered in the fridge. I like to meal prep a large batch for the week and refrigerate overnight.
- When you're ready to serve, it's time to prepare the chia pudding to create the oceanic effect. To do this simply separate the chia pudding into three separate bowls. Add blue spirulina to one and green spirulina to one.
- Layer either the blue or green layer into your mason jars first.
- Follow this with the plain chia pudding and then top with the other colored chia pudding.
- Then top with your toppings of choice *
Notes
Nutrition
Tracy
I love how beautiful all your recipes are
Jane
Love this!! What do you use to cut out your hearts is it a cookie cutter or something with sharper edges? Xx
Alpha Foodie
I use some simple metal heart cutters that work best for me 🙂
Richard Hanna
Found it. Now to get ingredients and try for myself. Thanks again for the inspiration
SF
Really pretty!