Hemp hearts are my new favorite plant-based protein source. Hemp contains all 10 essential amino acids. Hemp also provides a nice balance of essential fats. Hemp hearts (or seeds) are a complete protein, providing 10 grams protein per 3 tbsp. Adding hemp hearts to oatmeal or smoothies will not only keep you full but also focused. Hemp hearts enhance your brain’s memory and cognitive function.

Here are some of my favorite recipes to incorporate hemp hearts in
your diet:

Hemp Crusted Salmon

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup hemp hearts
• 1 pound wild-caught salmon fillet, cut in 4 pieces
• 1/3 cup organic mayo (or veganaise, made with grapeseed oil)
• 1/2 tsp thyme or tarragon
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease baking sheet with olive oil
2. Arrange salmon on baking sheet and spread with a thin layer of mayo. Top with hemp hearts and sprinkle with herbs and salt.
3. Bake 20 minutes.

Super Seed Granola

Dry Ingredients

• 4 cups gluten-free oats
• 1/2 cup hemp hearts
• 1/4 cup ground flax seeds
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

• 1/4 cup raw organic honey
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:
1.  Preheat oven to 275 F. Grease 2 baking sheets.
2. In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients. In a small bowl combine wet ingredients.
3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients. Spread mixture on baking sheets.
4. Bake for 30 minutes.

Coconut Chocolate Hemp Balls

Ingredients

• 1 cup nut butter (I use cashew butter, almond butter or sunflower seed butter)
• 1/4 cup raw honey
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• pinch of sea salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup raw sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 cup raw hemp hearts, for rolling

Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix together the nut butter, honey, cocoa powder, cinnamon and salt until well combined. Add the coconut and seeds (pumpkin or sunflower).
2. Refrigerate dough for 20-30 minutes.
3. Roll the dough into 1.5 inch balls.
4. Roll the balls into hemp seeds to coat.
5. Store in fridge or freezer.

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health practitioners with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.