Brussels Sprouts: Two Ways

What do you think of when you hear “Brussels sprouts”?  They are kind of making a comeback.  And, did you also know that they contain protein (2 g per ½ cup), lots of fiber, are high in vitamins A,C,K, and folate, and have anti-cancer compounds?  How is that for cute little cabbages (as my kids say)?

Livestrong.com has a great article on the health benefits of Brussels sprouts here.

So, today I picked up a great big bunch of sprouts at our local grocer. 

First, I made a super nutritious soup to help Alex get over his cold: Chicken Brussels Sprouts Quinoa Soup.  I made my own stock using parsnips, leek, onion, carrot, celery, garlic (lots and lots!), bay leaves and a whole free-range chicken.  I would normally add in thyme; however I didn’t have any on hand.  Still…Yum!

For the soup, I pulled the meat from the chicken, added more of the yummy veggies listed above (including more garlic!!!  I could write a while new post on the benefits of garlic!!!  It is my #1 food and medicinal staple!), shredded Brussels sprouts, chopped parsley, and ¼ cup of quinoa.

Cold, beware!

 

I had some sprouts left over, so the next morning, I washed them up and threw them into a smoothie. You might cringe thinking of a Brussels sprout smoothie, but it was truly delicious! When it comes to greens to throw into a smoothie, why not think outside the box?

Cold buster #2 – packed with vitamin C!

Ingredients (I eyeball the amounts for my smoothie and prepare A LOT)

1 c. pineapple

½ c. mango

1 peach, pitted – skin does not have to be removed, just make sure to wash well!

5 strawberries

2 clemetines (or 1 orange)

4 Brussels sprouts

Handful of parsley

1 tsp. spirulina

Coconut water/water to get the desired texture

Ice cubes, if you desire

Toss it all in the Vitamix and blend for 60 seconds.

Top with a sprinkling of chia seeds and enjoy!!

Cheers!