Chia seeds have exploded in popularity in recent years, and with good reason. They have an exceptional nutritional profile and accompanying health benefits.
Although they are often found in sweet dishes, puddings and breakfasts, you shouldn’t let your imagination stop there!
We know that chia seeds make for a great breakfast like chia pudding and sometimes to replace eggs, but using them in savory meals? That’s something you should try!
If you want more ways of including chia seeds in your diet, then this article will give you new and imaginative ways to add them to meals you eat can anytime.
Why Eat Chia Seeds?
Chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse and come with a number of health benefits:
- Nutrient-Dense: Chia seeds are rich in vitamins such as vitamins B and E as well as minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and magnesium.
- Great Sources of Fiber: Chia seeds are one of the best plant-based sources of fiber. More than 80% of the carb content of chia seeds is in fiber and they contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. High-fiber foods are great as they keep you fuller for longer and help you naturally reduce your calories (great if you want to lose weight).
- Rich in Antioxidants: Chia seeds contain many antioxidants such as chlorogenic acid, quercetin and kaempferol. Studies find that these may be able to help reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease.
- High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Chia Seeds are an excellent plant-based source of omega-3 fats. It is particularly high in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is linked to various benefits, from reduced inflammation to better heart health and brain function.
Savory Chia Seed Recipes
I’m definitely one to add chia seeds to my breakfast (see my blueberry oatmeal breakfast in this 7 day plan).
However, you should never be afraid to experiment, particularly with something as delicious and nutritious as chia seeds.
From breadsticks and jams to meatballs and salads, chia seeds can do it all. Give one of these recipes a try:
Sourdough Bread
I love this Sourdough Bread recipe when I’m looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional bread.
The seeds are first pureed with fresh water, oil and sauerkraut juice (although kimchi is a great alternative).
Chia seed flour is made by blending and then stirred into some puréed nuts. The mixture is then fermented, stirred with the remaining ingredients and baked.
The chia seeds contribute to the tender and spongy texture of the bread, similar to whole grain bread, while also providing some excellent health benefits due to the combination inclusion of nuts and seeds.
These contain lots of healthy unsaturated fats that many of us don’t get enough of! So grab a bite and don’t feel guilty about it!
Vietnamese Meatballs (Bun Cha)
I love discovering delightful flavors in new cuisines and these Vietnamese Meatballs (called Bun Cha), definitely bring something new to the table.
They are rich pork meatballs infused with a whole bunch of herbs including mint, basil and cilantro.
Some ginger seasoning and lime zest are also included, bringing out some wonderful explosions of flavor.
Although pork is always used, you can combine it with beef too for some extra variety. You can throw in some fish sauce for a more typical Asian flavoring, but I just really love adding the extra garlic.
The chia seeds are used here to replace the typical breadcrumbs that keep the meatballs moist.
They are ready in just 40 minutes, making them the perfect treat for a midweek lunch or dinner.
Seed Crackers
Who needs store-bought crackers when you can make your own delicious ones that are packed with health?
They are made with a variety of seeds, not just chia seeds. However, the chia seeds are the important seed that is used to hold everything together.
The sunflower seeds add a nutty flavor, the flaxseed does add some extra omega-3s and the pepitas (or pumpkin seeds). When combined together, they offer a satisfying crunch and taste along with the salt and garlic.
They are super easy to make too! Simply combine the dry ingredients, add water and soak for about 20 minutes, then place on a baking tray, score and bake for 50-60 minutes at 300°F (or about 150°C). Easy peasy!
They keep for up to 7 days, so they are always handy when I need something quick, tasty and healthy on the go.
If you’re looking to easily up your seed intake and get those healthy fats in, these snacks are ideal.
Zucchini Chia Muffins
Sometimes we need a break from the classic oats or eggs for breakfast. When I first tried this recipe, I was totally blown away.
Breakfasts can sometimes add a lot of sugar to your diet, but these savory muffins are just so full of goodness.
The chia seeds act as an egg replacer whilst adding a good boost of fiber along with the zucchini. Zucchini is such a great food, being particularly high in vitamins A and C.
Simply grind the zucchini, strain as much water out of the grated zucchini as possible, and add the rest of the ingredients to a mixing bowl, folding the chia seeds in last.
They just then need to be baked at 300F for 45-50 minutes, and they come out so soft and fluffy – they simply just melt in your mouth.
They are easily made in batches, plus they keep for a couple of days. I just put them into the microwave for 10 seconds to warm and bam, breakfast is complete!
Instant Pot Crack Slaw
This Instant Pot Crack Slaw is a super satisfying and savory dish that makes use of chia seeds. Loaded with cabbage and ground beef, making it great to fill up on veggies with, as well as protein.
What I really love about this Instant Pot Crack Slaw is how interchangeable the ingredients are when it comes to the ground meats and seasonings you use. I can simply use whatever is left in the cupboard and each time I have a different recipe.
The chia seeds in this recipe again act as a thickening agent, but they also help absorb the liquid released during the cooking process, ensuring the flavors remain concentrated in each bite.
This is great when using ingredients like beef and cabbage that give off so much liquid whilst cooking.
Overall it’s a quick and flavorful low-carb meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. What’s not to love?
Chia Seed Breadsticks
I love the twist of the classic breadsticks. They are packed with the deliciousness of ordinary garlic breadsticks but with the goodness of chia seeds.
I feel like breadsticks make any meal better, but now I can enjoy them without feeling any guilt whatsoever!
They are so easy to make too. It’s simply a case of unrolling the breadstick dough, brushing with some butter, and sprinkling the chia seeds and other seasonings before twisting the dough and baking at 375F for about 12 minutes. Out comes golden perfection!
If you want a healthy side dish or appetizer loaded with those omega-3 fats that you can enjoy anytime, then this is the recipe for you.
Avocado and Tomato Salad
If you’re looking for the healthiest of salads, this tomato and avocado salad is up there with the best.
It has some Mexican influence in its seasoning selection with tajin powder, cumin and chili powder.
The burst of flavor means it can hold its own without pairing it with anything else, but also works just as well as a topping for enchiladas or tacos.
When it comes to health benefits, this salad is a powerhouse. Tomatoes are rich in nutrients like vitamins A, B, C, E and potassium, whilst avocados are full of healthy fats, potassium, fiber and vitamin K.
Combined with the nutrient powerhouse that is chia seeds, this salad is one to choose when you’re on a health drive.
It’s very simple to make with no cooking – simply combine the chopped avocado, julienne red onions, lemon juice, spices, chia seeds and cherry tomatoes in a bowl. Drizzle with avocado oil, mix everything together and serve.
Easy peasy and as healthy as you can get!
Huckleberry Jam
If you want something different than on your toast or bagels, or even as a topping for oatmeal, this huckleberry jam is worth giving a try.
You can even combine different berries like blueberries, raspberries and blackberries for a wild berry combination too.
It’s a simple recipe too! Heat the huckleberries and agave nectar (or maple syrup) over medium heat until the berries begin to pop.
Add the chia seeds, stir for about 5 minutes until it thickens, then remove from heat and add vanilla.
Then you can simply allow it to cool completely and taste to ensure the desired level of sweetness.
I love how both the sweetness and tanginess come through really add something to my breakfasts or snacks.
Considering how versatile and easy it is, I’m sure you’ll find a great use for it!
Savory Chia Seed Recipes
Looking for a different take on your typical meal with chia seeds? These Savory Chia Seed Recipes are full of different flavors that will surprise and delight you in equal measure!
Ingredients
- Sourdough Bread
- Vietnamese Meatballs (Bun Cha)
- Seed Crackers
- Zucchini Chia Muffins
- Instant Pot Crack Slaw
- Chia Seed Breadsticks
- Avocado and Tomato Salad
- 1Huckleberry Jam
Instructions
- Choose your favorite recipe from the list above. Get creative with the ingredients and you can make the recipe your own.
- Get your shopping list ready, get the ingredients and get prepared.
- Follow the instructions and make your own Savory Chia Seed Recipe!
Notes
Which one of these did you enjoy the most. Leave a comment in the comment section below, on our Facebook page or Pinterest!
Savory Chia Seed Recipes Summary
As you can see from the recipes above, all it takes is a little imagination and you can deviate away from your classic chia puddings.
The chia seeds are often used as the thickening agent and replace another ingredient, but with a load of health benefits to boot.
So no matter what type of recipe you have, you can be sure there’s a way to include them with these delicious savory chia seed recipes.
Save and Pin for Later
Looking to try some savory chia seed meals soon? Keep these must-try recipes for later by saving this article to one of your Pinterest boards.
