Happy Valentine’s Day

    By: Jacqueline Gomes, RDN, MBA

    On Valentine’s Day we show our loved one’s appreciation with gifts like flowers, strawberries and chocolate!

    Dark chocolate is known to have health benefits through the presence of flavanoid antioxidants and the ability to increase serotonin levels. New research is demonstrating that consuming chocolate may aid in improving mood and easing depressive symptoms.

    Strawberries are an obvious treat for Valentine’s Day and you’ll be glad to know that…

    • Just one serving of eight strawberries has more vitamin C than an orange – 110% of the recommended daily value.
    • Strawberries are packed with beneficial antioxidants and nutrients including potassium, folate, and fiber.
    • Strawberries are a sweet, low calorie treat any time. Enjoy them alone or in yogurt, cereal, smoothies and desserts!

     

    Share something sweet with your loved ones by preparing these decadent Chocolate Chip Strawberry Short Cakes; plus, I’ve included a much-appreciated short cut!

    My Chocolate Strawberry Short Cakes start with refrigerated biscuits, and the filling starts with Greek yogurt. These lightened up short cakes do not skimp on flavor!

     

    Chocolate Strawberry Short Cakes

    chocolate strawberry short cakes on a plate

    Prep: 10 minutes

    Bake: Bake 15 minutes

    Makes: 8 Short Cakes

     

    Ingredients:

    • 1 tube refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
    • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
    • 1 tablespoon 100% cocoa
    • 1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced
    • 2 cups fat free Vanilla Greek yogurt
    • ½ cup 60% dark chocolate chips
    • 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar (optional)
    • Light whipped cream topping (optional)

     

    Directions:

    1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove biscuits from tube and set aside.
    2. Combine granulated sugar and cocoa in a small bowl. Dip each side of biscuit into mixture and place on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper.
    3. Bake as directed, about 15 minutes and then aside to cool.
    4. Meanwhile prepare “filling”. Combine Greek yogurt with chocolate chips.
    5. Split biscuits and fill with Greek yogurt filling and sliced strawberries.
    6. To serve sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar and a dollop of light whipped topping (optional).

    Recipe: Jacqueline Gomes, RDN, MBA