DESSERTS WITH A HEALTHY FUSION

By Shari Bilt Boockvar

When it comes to chocolate and other desserts, it’s hard to find anyone who will say a bad word about these sweets. Who doesn’t love a chocolate ganache layered cake, or perhaps chocolate-covered strawberries? Most everyone is happy to indulge their sweet tooth. However, there are healthy alternatives that are just as satisfying. And, yes, they’re sweet, rich, creamy too. Read on for some ideas that demonstrate “everything in moderation.”

STRAWBERRY GREEK YOGURT BITES
One of today’s most iconic desserts is chocolate covered strawberries. These, however, can be expensive, melt quickly, and the chocolate can be quite decadent. However, our yummy bites look just as delicious as the ones you buy at the store. Just wash and dry your strawberries thoroughly. Dip in any flavored Greek yogurt, which is thicker than regular varieties, and dip into sprinkles. Eat immediately or store in your refrigerator.

CHURRO FRUIT NACHOS
Most of us are used to having nachos with cheese, tomatoes, ground beef and other savory toppings. Dessert nachos are unique, and if you haven’t tried Mi Nina “Churros” Tortilla Chips, do so! I made a yummy dessert platter by merely chopping fruit, topping the nachos and sprinkling a bit of cinnamon and sugar on top. This is an easy and fun idea to bring as a guest to the next dinner party you are invited too.

CHOCOLATE LOVER’S DREAM
Try this one with the kids as an after-school snack or dessert. Take one Enjoy Life Foods Cocoa Loco Chewy Bar and top it with 88 Acres Dark Chocolate Sunflower Seed Butter and add a few sprinkles! The taste is similar to a delicious frosted brownie. The bars and sesame seed butter are nut free for those who may be allergic.

CHERRY CHIP YOGURT “ICE CREAM”
I could eat ice cream every night and quickly go back for seconds. I use this healthier swap to add protein while cutting out the extra calories from ice cream. Mix 1 cup of cherry flavored Greek yogurt with a small handful of chips and fresh cherries. Top with chocolate sprinkles. Of course, you may change the flavors of Greek yogurt and use any combination of chips, nuts, seeds or your favorite toppings to your liking.

BANANA WHIPPERS
Try this cool and refreshing treat that can be made in 2 minutes! It’s a “go-to” for my family when we need a fast and easy breakfast. In advance, slice one banana and freeze (I like to keep many sliced bananas in my freezer so I can make this at any time). Put the following ingredients into a Nutribullet or blender:
• 1 frozen sliced banana
• ¼ - ½ cup milk beverage of choice (milk, almond, soy, etc.)
• 1 - 2 tablespoons peanut butter
Blend well. Add more milk if your mixture is too thick. When finished, add chocolate chips or any other mix-in items you desire.

RASPBERRY CANDY BITES
The holes in raspberries have an excellent purpose for candy lovers—they are perfect for stuffing an M&M or chocolate chips! These are cute to serve to kids or put a few on a plate when you need something sweet after a meal.

Shari Bilt Boockvar, MS, RDN is a nutritionist in New York and the Tristate area.
She specializes in nutrition counseling and consulting for weight control and fitness.
Shari can be found blogging about her favorite products and recipes at
Facebook.com/NutritionShari,
Twitter.com/NutrtionShari,
Instagram: NutritionShari,
and nutrifactsforyou.com.