Layering Lifeway Farmer Cheese in between spiced chickpeas, cucumbers, and tomato will trick your taste buds into thinking you’re on a Mediterranean vacation. Close your eyes and imagine the beachfront views and sea salt infused air as you snack on this savory treat.
Cultured Dairy: The Nutrition Benefits You Actually Need to Know
With increasing research linking the correlation between probiotics, gut health, and immunity, it’s no secret that the integrity of our gut is vital to our health. Although additional factors such as stress, antibiotic usage, and individual health conditions can contribute to the condition of our gut, a focus on healthy food choices is one of the easiest ways to support the microbiome.
Several studies have shown a strong association between the gut-brain-microbiota. Probiotics introduced to the gut have been found to support immunity, improve allergies, and improve digestion.
Studies have shown that reduced diversity of healthy gut bacteria during early years is associated with an increase in food allergies during school age years. In addition, kefir made from whole fat milk helps absorb key nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin K is important because it helps your bones absorb calcium. It’s important to know that kefir contains a special trio: vitamin D, K, and calcium – all three crucial elements to support bone health.
Prebiotics + Probiotics = a Healthy You
Prebiotics are non-living, non-digestible carbohydrates naturally found in a variety of foods. Your body actually can’t digest prebiotics, so they’re what probiotics feed off of to remain actively working in your digestive system. They help the digestive system by promoting the growth of good bacteria. Prebiotics and probiotics work together in balance to make sure our digestive system stays on track and regular. Research has found that consuming a variety of prebiotic and probiotic food sources may improve your body’s natural functions, including both your immune and digestive system.
Servings: 1 - 2Ingredients
- 1 cup Farmer Cheese
- 1/2 cup rinsed chickpeas (garbanzo beans)
- chickpea spice blend: paprika, cayenne pepper, turmeric, garlic powder, and salt
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes sliced in half
- 1/4 cup quartered cucumber slices
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
Directions
- Heat the oil in a saute pan on medium heat and toss in the rinsed chickpeas and spice blend. Cook till the spice blend coats the chickpeas and there is a slight crisp.
- Let the chickpeas cool in a bowl for five minutes before assembling.
- Layer the chickpeas with Lifeway Farmer Cheese and top with fresh tomato and cucumber slices. Enjoy!