Sunflower Seed Parsley Spread

Sunflower seeds are a perfect snack and I’m always on the hunt for a healthy flavorful spread to add to crackers, toasted veggie sandwiches or to spread & dip in veggies.

A few years ago I was fortunate to spend a weekend at a yoga retreat where they fed us like royalty and one dish that always bring me back to feelings of bliss was a herb spread. I’ve often thought of this spread and decided it was time to start experimenting.  The Sunflower Seed Parsley Spread was born!

In Seed Cycling, sunflower seeds are powerful progesterone producing seeds that support phase 2 of your menses cycle, or the luteal phase, where your body shifts from estrogen production to progesterone production.

The imbalance of the key hormones estrogen & progesterone during your menses cycle, during perimenopause and menopause contribute to PMS symptoms, cramps, irregular cycles, fatigue, hot flashes and headaches to name a few.

Sunflower seeds are high in selenium, a trace mineral that assists the liver in detoxification and thus overall hormonal balance.

What you need:

2 cups sunflower seeds
1-2 cups boiling water
3 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1/2-1 lemon (depending on your taste)
1 cup packed parsley leaves
2-3 cloves garlic
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

What you do:

Pour boiling water over the sunflower seeds-allow to sit for a half hour (or simply soak the seeds in room temperature water overnight).

Drain water and place seeds in food processor or blender and grind them fairly fine. Add all other ingredients and blend until mixed.

Notes:

Enjoy on toast, in your veggie sandwich, on veggies or crackers. Dilute further with olive oil & lemon juice to create a creamy salad dressing.

Use cilantro, kale, spinach or leeks in place of parsley.

Keep parsley stems for veggie or bone broth.