Executive chef Curtis Cooke joined Cal-a-Vie Health Spa in 2013 after spending more than a decade helming the kitchens of some of the most renowned destination spas in the country, including Golden Door (San Marcos, CA) and Lake Austin Spa Resort (TX). With a philosophy centering around the concept that a healthy, happy life begins with food, Cooke collaborates with the resident dietitian at Cal-A-Vie to create gourmet dishes from nutrient-rich, wholesome ingredients. Instead of counting calories, the culinary program features organic and well-proportioned meals to help guests adopt a healthier lifestyle. “Cal-a-Vie’s menu not only features nutrient-packed dishes with ingredients grown in our garden; it is skillfully presented with genuine care and hospitality to help guests feel satisfied and fulfilled, both body and mind,” says Cooke. “Through our potager-to-plate culinary program, we aim to empower guests to be more authentic in the way they interact with their food, their health, and the communities in which they live.” Potager is a French term for a kitchen garden. Here, discover how to make Cooke’s healthy Chia Seed Porridge.
Chia Seed Porridge (serves 2 to 4 people)
Porridge:
- ¼ cup of chia seeds
- 1 cup of almond milk (or coconut milk)
- ½ banana, mashed
- ½ tsp of vanilla extract
- ½ tsp of honey
Toppings:
- 1 cup of pecans, toasted
- ¼ cup of cranberries, soaked
- 1 tsp of cinnamon
Instructions:
- Soak chia seeds, almond or coconut milk, vanilla extract, honey, and mashed banana for at least two hours in the refrigerator.
- Add toppings before serving. Serve chilled.
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