Let’s be real—if you’ve been on any health kick in the last decade, you’ve crossed paths with kale and quinoa. They’ve had their time in the spotlight, popping up in everything from salads to smoothie bowls. And hey, no shade! They’re healthy, versatile, and honestly, delicious when done right.
But it’s 2025, and we think it’s time to expand our horizons. There’s a whole world of forgotten (or just overlooked) superfoods out there—nutrient-dense, flavorful, and ready for their glow-up. So let’s give kale a little break and dive into some old-school superfoods that deserve a serious comeback.
Amaranth: The Original Ancient Grain
Quinoa may be the star of the ancient grain crew, but Amaranth walked so quinoa could run. Used by the Aztecs and prized for its high protein content, amaranth is naturally gluten-free, packed with fiber, and loaded with iron and magnesium. It has a slightly nutty flavor and a porridge-like texture when cooked, making it perfect for breakfast bowls or as a base for grain salads.
Sea Buckthorn: The Little Orange Berry With a Punch
Sea buckthorn might sound like something out of a fantasy novel, but it’s a legit nutritional powerhouse. These tiny orange berries are rich in vitamin C (way more than oranges), omega-7 fatty acids, and antioxidants. The taste is tart—think citrus meets passionfruit—and they work well in juices, jams, or even skincare products. If you see sea buckthorn oil in the health aisle or frozen berries at a specialty store, snag them. Your immune system will thank you.
Blackstrap Molasses: Sweetness With Benefits
Wait… molasses? Isn’t that just an old-school baking ingredient? Yes—but blackstrap molasses is the unsung hero of sweeteners. It’s what’s left after the third boiling of sugar cane syrup, and it’s surprisingly good for you. We’re talking iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium—all in one spoonful. Try a teaspoon in your morning oatmeal or a warm cup of milk (dairy or plant-based). It gives a rich, almost spicy sweetness with a big mineral boost.
Chickpeas (But Not How You Think)
Sure, chickpeas aren’t exactly forgotten—we love hummus and roasted snacks as much as the next person. But have you tried chickpea flour (also known as besan or gram flour)? It’s a staple in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines and packs more protein than wheat flour. Plus, it’s gluten-free and super versatile. You can make pancakes, crepes, or even savory snacks like socca (a kind of chickpea flatbread that’s as easy as it is tasty).
Dulse: The Bacon of the Sea
Hear us out: dulse is a type of red seaweed that’s not only full of iodine, potassium, and iron—it also has a naturally smoky, umami flavor. When pan-fried, it crisps up in a way that’s strangely similar to bacon. Wild, right? Sprinkle dulse flakes over popcorn or toss some into soups, stir-fries, or grain bowls. It’s plant-based, sustainable, and brings serious flavor. Look, kale and quinoa aren’t going anywhere—and that’s fine. But 2025 is the perfect time to shake up your routine and bring some of these under-the-radar superfoods back into your life. Not only will you add variety to your meals, but you’ll also tap into a broader range of nutrients that your body (and taste buds) will appreciate.…