Had enough sugar yet? Are you counting the days until the Holidays are over and you can get back to healthy eating? I know I am. For me, the Holiday Season means a free pass to eat anything and everything that I normally would not dream of eating.  By the time I get to New Year’s Eve, I’m always moaning that “I just can’t eat or drink another thing!!!”   If I had my choice, I’d toast the New Year with a glass of vitamin packed green juice or smoothie. But not to be a “kill-joy,” I’ll finish up 2017 by indulging (hopefully one last time) in too much food and alcohol

My pre- New Years Eve tradition is to go through my recipe files and cookbooks, and pull out some healthy recipes to start off the New Year.  At the very least, it makes me feel pro-active, and always gives me hope that the end of this insanity is in sight.   As we all know, healthy food can be very delicious, but it takes some time to plan and prepare, and honestly, who has the time during this hectic time of year.

As my sugar high is in full swing, and we still have several days to go until I can officially declare my kitchen a safe haven for those who want to feel better about what is going into their bodies, I have found a recipe that will make you think you are indulging in a decadent dessert, but are actually eating something very healthy. The best part is that the ingredients are staples in my kitchen, so I can whip this up any time. Whip it up indeed…. as all you have to do is throw the ingredients in a blender! It couldn’t be easier.

Chocolate avocado mousse is one of those desserts that every time you serve it, your guests will want the recipe (usually after one bite), and then can’t believe the ingredients. I’ve seen variations of this recipe floating around the internet and on some food shows for years and always thought it looked good, but couldn’t possibly be that good. Well I was wrong. This is decadently delish. It’s so rich that you really do need a small dollop of whipped cream or some berries on top.

If you are in need of a dessert recipe to finish out this year, or start the new one, you can get a head start on healthy eating by making this delicious chocolate avocado mousse. If you don’t share the recipe, your guests will think they are indulging in another rich and delicious dessert before staring their new year’s resolutions. Only you will know that you have started them on their way to a healthy 2018!

Wishing you all a very happy and healthy 2018!

Happy New Year!

Recipe:  makes 6 servings

6 – 7 medjool dates, soaked (you can find these in the fresh produce section)

1/2 cup maple syrup

1 1/2 tsp. vanilla

3 very ripe avocados, mashed

3/4 cup organic cocoa

1/2 cup water

1.  Once your dates have soaked for 20 minutes or so, pit them and put in the blender or food processor with the maple syrup and vanilla and blend until smooth.
2. Add the mashed avocado,  cocoa powder and water and process until smooth.  You may have to scrape the sides a few times in-between to mix the ingredients.
3. Fill each small ramekin or dish.  Top with berries or whipped cream or both.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.