Pregnancy Power Parfait
This Pregnancy Power Parfait is a quick, nutrient-dense snack or breakfast, layering creamy Greek yogurt with sweet cherries, crunchy almonds, and beneficial chia seeds to keep you energized and satisfied.
For 1 serving
Wash and pit the fresh sweet cherries, then halve them. Gather all other ingredients.
Spoon half (approximately 1/2 cup) of the plain Greek yogurt into the bottom of a glass or small bowl.
Evenly layer half of the pitted and halved cherries over the yogurt. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of chopped almonds and 1/2 teaspoon of chia seeds. If using, drizzle with 1/2 teaspoon of maple syrup and a pinch of ground cinnamon.
Carefully add the remaining Greek yogurt on top of the first fruit and nut layer.
Finish by topping with the remaining cherries, 1 tablespoon of chopped almonds, and 1/2 teaspoon of chia seeds. Drizzle with the remaining maple syrup and sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired.
Serve immediately for optimal crunch and freshness, or cover and chill for up to 30 minutes before enjoying.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use full-fat Greek yogurt for extra satiety and better absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, especially beneficial during pregnancy.
- 2To save time, prep your cherries (pitting and halving) ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- 3For a thicker parfait, you can mix 1/2 teaspoon of chia seeds directly into the Greek yogurt and let it sit for 5 minutes before layering.
- 4If fresh cherries are out of season, slightly thawed frozen cherries can be used. Pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Swap
Substitute cherries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries for different nutrient profiles and flavors.
Nut & Seed VarietyNut & Seed Variety
Instead of almonds, try walnuts, pecans, or a mix of seeds like pumpkin seeds or flax seeds for diverse textures and healthy fats.
Yogurt BaseYogurt Base
While Greek yogurt is recommended for protein, you can use a plant-based yogurt (e.g., almond or soy) for a dairy-free option, ensuring it's unsweetened and fortified.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Essential Folic Acid & Antioxidants
Cherries provide natural folate, vital for fetal neural tube development, and powerful antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
High Protein for Growth & Satiety
Greek yogurt is packed with protein, crucial for the growth and development of the baby, and helps the mother feel full and satisfied, managing hunger during pregnancy.
Omega-3s & Fiber for Wellness
Chia seeds and almonds deliver healthy Omega-3 fatty acids, important for brain development, along with dietary fiber to support healthy digestion and prevent common pregnancy-related constipation.
Frequently asked questions
While you can assemble it the night before, the nuts and seeds may soften. For best texture, prepare it up to 1-2 hours in advance and keep it chilled, adding the nuts and seeds just before serving if you prefer them crunchy.
