This holiday season try indulging in scrumptious and healthy treats that won't pack on the extra holiday padding. These raw food recipes are quick, easy, and sure to satisfy everyone.

Rawzert

3 cups raw pecans

3 cups medjool dates (available at local grocery stores)

1 tsp. organic vanilla extract

1/3 cup organic cocoa powder. (raw cocoa powder can be used but is typically hard to find.)

Put in food processor for 60 seconds. Pour into a large bowl and roll into balls. Or if you prefer, make a huge brownie and refrigerate. Can also be eaten at room temperature. This brownie-like dessert can be made without the cocoa if you are not a chocolate lover.

Decadent and Creamy Cheezy Dip

4oz. raw pine nuts

4oz. raw walnuts

4oz. raw tahini (sesame butter)

4 bunches organic basil

3 cloves of garlic

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 lemon - juice and zest

1 cup nutritional yeast flakes (found at health food stores)

Combine all ingredients in the food processor and mix, add water slowly to make it into a thick, creamy dip. Serve with fresh and/or lightly blanched veggies, sprouted grain crackers or pita. Substitute sun dried tomato, curry or a Mexican flavor for the basil for variations.

The nutritional yeast flakes provide this dip with its "cheezy" flavor without the dairy.

Joy Golding is the owner of Raw Joy. Her company prepares 100% raw, vegan, and organic foods. For more information on raw foods call 321-446-2062.