Strawberry Rhubarb Chia Pudding Parfaits

I have to say, chia seed pudding never seemed appetizing to me.  Especially knowing that REAL pudding is deliciously creamy and the perfect dessert.  But as usual, I couldn’t resist trying it out myself.  There’s only so many recipes for chia seed pudding I can come across before I decide its time for a home trial.

I wanted to pair my chia pudding with some jam or a compote.  I thought that would be a nice bright flavor compared to the pudding.  I went with my Strawberry Rhubarb Compote that I always make this time of year.  I love the hot pink color and the sweet tart flavor.  It’s pretty delicious!

Layered together, vanilla chia seed pudding and the compote were awesome!  Nothing about this dessert that I didn’t like.  Even better, this is actually good for breakfast too.  High in protein and fiber, plus a little fruit?  That’s the definition of a healthy breakfast to me!

If you make this, you can swap or change up the flavors however you like.  Which is nice.  Or add a different compote or jam!  Enjoy!

Strawberry Rhubarb Chia Pudding Parfaits:
Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup chia seeds
• 2 cups 1% milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 1/2 thinly sliced rhubarb
• 1 1/2 lbs sliced strawberries
• 1/2 cup sugar (more or less depending on how sweet your berries are)
• 1 vanilla bean, split in half, seeds set aside
• 1/8 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Whisk together the chia seeds, milk, vanilla extract and honey in a medium bowl.  Cover and allow to thicken in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours.
2. While pudding thickens, prepare strawberry rhubarb compote.  Heat a medium-sized sauce pan over medium high heat add all ingredients.  Stir gently to combine.
3. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring often.
4. Turn down to medium and simmer for about 15 or 20 minutes or until strawberry mixture has thickened to a syrup-like consistency.
5. Set aside and cool.  Refrigerate after cooled – leftovers can be stored for about 2 weeks.
6. To make parfaits layer in chia seed pudding and strawberry rhubarb compote – alternating layers.  Garnish with freshly sliced strawberries!