Your Monday Challenge:
There is now ample evidence that spices and herbs possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumorigenic, anticarcinogenic, and glucose- and cholesterol-lowering activities as well as properties that affect cognition and mood. - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30651162/
I love this time of year because it’s the time we enjoy our fresh garden herbs. Our herb garden includes cilantro, scallions, garlic, dill, lemon balm, mint, oregano, basil, parsley, sage, rosemary & thyme. Whew! Yeah, the husband has quite the green thumb.
You’ve probably heard about the medicinal and healing power of herbs and spices. Many of them are used very effectively in alternative medicine. Herbs were around long before pharmaceuticals so maybe most of the pharmaceuticals we use today should be labeled “alternative.”
When you add herbs to your food prep and cooking you increase the healthfulness of that food. Garden-fresh herbs give you more flavorful foods so you just may want to eliminate some of the salt and sugar you might be adding. Herbs can also rev up your metabolism and boost your immune system to help keep you healthy.
You can store fresh herbs, from the garden or from the store, in containers with water to keep them fresh. Put them on your windowsill or counter and you’ll be more likely to add them to whatever you’re preparing. Be sure to change the water from time to time to keep it fresh.
You can even have fresh herbs for breakfast! I love to add fresh mint leaves to my morning oats for a delightful boost of flavor. Lemon balm leaves are great in a smoothie or your morning tea.
For a super tasty treat try adding 1/4 cup packed mint leaves to a high speed blender with 3 frozen bananas, 4 teaspoons of cacao nibs, and a splash of plant milk. Blend well for a very healthy take on mint chocolate chip nice cream!
Veganfest 2021
Visit me at Veganfest 2021 on Sunday, June 27 at the Knoxville Expo for a chance to win a free potted herb.🌿
(while supplies last)
Your challenge this week is to try fresh herbs in at least one meal per day.
What is your favorite fresh herb?
How do you like to use fresh herbs?
Post in the comments below and let me know.
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