The common almond has a secret life as one of nature’s most unassuming wonder foods. Grandmothers in Southern Italy and Sicily have long prized almonds and almond paste for their healing qualities. They use the paste in many of their recipes, including the island’s wonderful almond granita. They also use almonds in pastry fillings and even pasta sauces, such as almond pesto.

Whether you add them to an elaborate recipe or eat them plain right out of the bag, vitamin-and-nutrient almonds are a perfect snack during treatment. They are an excellent source of essential fatty acids as well as dietary fiber that helps maintain regular digestion. They are also high in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant.

Another enjoyable way to get the benefits of almonds is by drinking almond milk. Nut milk has long been popular in other cultures and is beginning to catch on in the United States. Almond milk is now widely available in grocery stores. Delicious on its own, almond milk can be added to coffee, tea, or smoothies. Other nut milks such as hazelnut and cashew are becoming increasingly available as well. If you are going through treatment and are struggling to get enough protein in your diet, we recommend choosing another dairy-free milk beverage such as soy or hemp milk, which have a higher protein content than almond milk which has 0 grams of protein per cup.

On a hot summer day, a chilled glass of almond milk, or an almond milk slushy blended with ice can be very refreshing. Get creative and add your favorite extras: Berries or bananas can turn your almond milk into a delicious, nourishing smoothie. For a fancy twist on pudding try this Almond Avocado Pudding.

To warm you up on a cold winter’s day check out our comforting Almond Milk Chai Tea. This recipe can be poured over ice to create a refreshing summertime beverage as well.

For a delicious on the go snack or dessert check out our Vegan Chocolate, Date & Almond Bars will be sure to win over a dinner party crowd. Also try our super simple and Easy Almond Cookies, or Almond Tres Leches Cupcakes.

For more savory ideas, try a Mint & Almond Pesto which can be swirled into pasta for a quick, nutrient-dense dinner. If you’re looking for a nutrient-packed side dish, try this Shredded Kale Salad with Dates & Almonds.