Recipes

Take advantage of the current abundance of greens, whether in your garden or at the farmers market this is the time to enjoy the fresh late summer crops!

Pesto ingredients:

• Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brings a major herby flavor to the pesto.
• Parmesan Cheese: Try to use fresh parmesan – avoid the powdered stuff!
  • True parmesan (Parmigiano-Reggiano) is not vegetarian as it contains animal rennet but there are vegetarian options available.
• Pine Nuts: Toast pine nuts in a skillet for a few minutes to add a roasted flavor to your pesto.
• Garlic: Be sure to use fresh, blemish-free garlic.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The flavor of the oil is important in pesto, so use the good stuff.
• Salt & Pepper: Finish it off with salt and pepper, to taste!

Directions:

This recipe is packed with complex carbohydrates, great for the later phases of the menstrual cycle when hormones (and energy levels) are dropping. The high fiber and protein content will also help keep energy levels stable. Kale as a leafy green is a nutrient dense food, which is so needed during the period. Making your own high-in-healthy-fats dressing is great to eat during the period to help boost hormone production for the next cycle. Additionally, eating kasha (cooked buckwheat) during the period is beneficial for its warming properties, as the period is the coldest part of the cycle.

If you suffer from PMS or PMDD, give this recipe a try. Ripping up the kale is a therapy all on its own! Read More

Watermelon The Superfruit!

Not only does watermelon help keep you hydrated it is rich in vitamins A, B6 and C, contains an amino acid called citrulline that may help move blood through your body and lower your blood pressure. The cheery red color comes from lycopene, an antioxidant. Watermelon has more of this nutrient than any other fruit or veggie — even tomatoes. And it’s also a low calorie sweet treat!

As we move into watermelon season there are an abundant amount of recipes available. Here is an easy one that’s sure to be a crowd pleaser. While most sorbet recipes have you make a simple syrup to mix with the fruit that can take extra time to cool down before adding and the puree can chunk up when freezing. I found this recipe that take the common sense approach of freezing the watermelon in cubes before using, GENIUS! Read More

Chinese Medicine emphasizes the importance of eating seasonal and locally available foods to support overall health and balance. In the spring, we focus on cleansing and revitalizing the liver, supporting digestion, and boosting energy.

The following recipe incorporates fresh spring greens and asparagus, both rich in nutrients that help detoxify and nourish the liver. Ginger, garlic, and scallions provide warming and digestive properties, while sesame oil and seeds add a nutty flavor and nourishing qualities. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delicious and health-supporting dish for the spring season.

Stir Fried Spring Greens with Asparagus and Scallions

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of fresh spring greens (such as spinach, kale, or bok choy)
• 1 small bunch trimmed fresh asparagus spears
• 3-4 sliced scallions (spring onions)
• 1-2 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tamari or low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds