Vegan Cream Cheese What would a bagel be without cream cheese! This vegan garlic herb cream cheese is so smooth and rich, it is perfect for spreading over Silver Hills Organic Everything Bagels. The cream cheese gets most of its texture from soaked cashews. Soaking the cashews does more than just soften them to be blended when you soak any nut it “activates” it. What does this mean? Let me break it down:

Soaking nuts and grains removes or reduces phytic acid and tannins and neutralizes enzyme inhibitors. This process will encourage the production of beneficial enzymes, increase the number of vitamins, especially B vitamins, and make digestion easier. It will also make the proteins more readily available for absorption.

So don’t forget to soak your nuts!

Sprouted Bread Guess what!?!? You should also be soaking your grains! This is the process Silver Hills uses for all of their products, and that’s why they call themselves a “sprouted” bakery. Like nuts, when you soak/sprout grains you unlock all of the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Sprouted grains also have a lower glycemic index, increased soluble fiber, and protein. This will help regulate your blood sugar levels and help you maintain your energy level throughout the day. Talk about baked goods that are actually good for you.

Patio Spread This recipe is so quick and easy to make it seriously only takes about 14 minutes, and can be me well in advance. The bagel bites will last one to two weeks in an airtight bag, making them great for a last minute summer snack. They are the perfect alternative to super processed crackers and can be used for all your dips and salsas. Try them with my:

Grilled Pineapple Salsa Red Lentil Hummus Dip Vegan Olive Salsa

So grab some water and get soaking all the nuts and grains, and enjoy this delicious summer snack. Check out the recipe below and don’t forget to let me know what you think over at @foodbymaria! Tag #foodbymaria and #fearnotfoodisyourfriend so I can see all your beautiful recreations.

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Silver Hills Sprouted Bakery  

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