We are almost at the start of a new week everyone. I do hope ALL of you have stayed healthy and safe with all of the flu, viruses and illnesses going around. I know it is a busy time for everyone. Trying to continue to stay healthy, sending kids to school, eagerly awaiting the arrival of spring weather. I wanted to share some recipes for hot teas, tonics and smoothies to help YOU take care of YOU. Our loads our heavy, our to do lists are long. Set aside just a few minutes in between the schooling, the work, and the caring to renew YOU!
Ginger-Tumeric Tea. Ingredients: take 2 cups of water, 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon of chopped fresh ginger, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 wedge of lemon. Directions: In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add spices and reduce to medium heat. Simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and serve with honey and lemon wedge. (You can also substitute real maple syrup for the honey if necessary.) This tea is an excellent tonic. Tumeric is known for its restorative properties. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.
Green Tea with Citrus. Ingredients: Take the zest of 1 lemon wedge cut into slivers, 2 teaspoons of boiling water, 2 teaspoons of green tea powder, 3/4 cup of hot water, 1/2 cup of fresh grapefruit or orange juice, 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon honey. Directions: Place the lemon zest in a mug and cover with 2 teaspoons of boiling water. Steep for 3 minutes. Then add the green tea powder and hot water. Add fruit juice and honey. Stir together. The fresh fruit juice adds vitamin C. The green tea is great for the antioxidant benefit!
Tumeric-Milk Tonic for Sore Throat. Ingredients: 1/2 teaspoon of dried turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger, minced, 1/4 cup of water and 3/4 cup of milk. Directions: Blend liquid and dry ingredients and heat the mixture for a few minutes, until the milk almost boils. Let the mixture cool slightly, then strain if necessary and drink. Ginger is a wonderful anti-inflammatory that can reduce pain.
Fruit Basket Smoothie. Ingredients: 1 cup of fresh or frozen strawberries, 1/2 cup of crushed or sliced pineapple, 1 banana, 2 cups of orange juice, 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, 1 cup of baby spinach, and 1 tablespoon chia or flax seeds. Directions: Combine the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Add ice depending upon how chilled you want the smoothie. (Note: frozen bananas work well in this recipe as well.) This smoothie is a healthy blend for many reasons: the strawberries have fiber and antioxidants, the bananas have potassium, the pineapple is great for digestive health, orange juice has Vitamin C and the spinach has high overall nutrient value.
I hope you all have had a great weekend and it has been safe, and healthy and joyful. I will be back next week for some more great tips and recipes!
Lemon and Rosemary 