“Find your own balance with a continued pursuit of an active lifestyle. Prioritizing your health and relationship with food will lead you to the happy and full life you deserve.”
Rosanna Maffei, MS
In House Nutritionist
Rosy serves as Earth Fare’s new in-house nutritionist, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge in sports and nutrition, and a passion for the integration between food and health.
We don’t think you need an excuse to indulge in some dark chocolate this Valentine’s Day (everything in moderation, right?) but we’re happy to provide a few. Despite its indulgent reputation, dark chocolate is actually a secret health superhero, with benefits for your heart and brain in addition to your taste buds.
Dark chocolate (make sure you pick one with at least 75 percent cacao) boasts a rich array of antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols, which work together to combat oxidative stress and protect our cells from damage. Antioxidants are also known to lower inflammation, which may help lower blood pressure, protecting against heart disease and reducing the risk of stroke. It’s like having a delicious chocolatey shield against the stresses of daily life – pretty cool, right?
Despite all these health benefits, dark chocolate does pack a caloric punch, so experts recommend limiting daily intake to one to two ounces. We like ours in the form of this Dark Chocolate and Raspberry Bark. The almonds are optional, but add a delicious crunch, not to mention an extra dose of healthy fats, also known to lower blood pressure and protect against heart disease. Put your own spin on this easy treat by swapping in freeze-dried strawberries or walnuts, or sprinkling with sea salt.
- Skill level: Advanced, Beginner, Intermediate
- Total time: 35 min
- Preparation: 15 min
- Cooking: 20 min
- No. of Ingredients: 13
- Yields: 4-6 servings
Rosy’s Recipes
Dark Chocolate and Raspberry Bark
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces dark chocolate (at least 75% cocoa), chopped
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried raspberries, crushed
- 1/4 cup almonds, chopped (optional for added crunch)
- A pinch of sea salt
Directions:
Melt the Dark Chocolate:
In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate using a double boiler or by microwaving in 20-second intervals, stirring well after each interval.
Prepare the Toppings:
Crush the freeze-dried raspberries into smaller pieces. If you’re using almonds, chop them into small pieces.
Combine and Spread:
Mix the crushed raspberries and chopped almonds into the melted dark chocolate. Stir well to ensure an even distribution.
Spread on Parchment Paper:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the chocolate mixture onto the parchment paper and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle with Sea Salt:
Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate bark for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Chill to Harden:
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours or until the chocolate hardens.
Break into Pieces:
Once the chocolate is completely set, break the bark into rustic pieces. You can use a knife or simply break it by hand.
Serve and Enjoy