Refreshing Lemon Chia Parfaits

Ingredients:

For the Chia Seed Pudding:

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup almond milk (or any preferred non-dairy milk)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Curd:

• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1/2 cup sugar (or a preferred sweetener like coconut sugar)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted) or unsalted butter

For the Parfait Assembly:

• Fresh berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries)
• Gluten-free granola
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chia Seed Pudding:

   • In a bowl, combine chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
   • Stir well to combine.
   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.

2. Make the Lemon Curd:

   • In a medium saucepan, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, and eggs.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
   • Remove from heat and stir in the melted coconut oil until smooth.
   • Let the lemon curd cool completely. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

3. Assemble the Parfaits:

   • In serving glasses or bowls, layer the chia seed pudding, lemon curd, fresh berries, and gluten-free granola.
   • Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled.
   • Top with additional fresh berries and a sprig of mint for garnish, if desired.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to a day before serving.

Tips:

• Adjust the sweetness of the chia seed pudding and lemon curd to your taste.
• For an added flavor twist, you can add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the chia seed pudding.
• These parfaits make for a great make-ahead breakfast or a light dessert.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing gluten-free Lemon Chia Seed Parfaits!