Especially now... with all the viruses floating around and new strains of Covid supposedly out there. Although Covid is no longer life threatening...I have had a few clients tell me their symptoms were worse this time around after getting Covid this year. Anyway...
Basil is an herb found in the Lamiaceae family...also known as the mint family. It is known for its vibrant aroma and unique taste in some of our favorite dishes. The sweet basil is used primarily for cooking. We also see it muddled in some alcoholic drinks & used as toppers on pizzas, salads and pastas.
Holy basil has been used by Ayurvedic practices for many years to help reduce inflammation and prevent viruses...oh and to also reduce stress if eaten daily.
So WHY NOT EAT MORE?
It is rich in Vitamin K which is essential for heart and bone health. Just 2 tbsp. can give you 18% of the RDA. FYI: If you are taking blood thinners, be aware of the amount of Vitamin K you ingest.
It is also full of antioxidants which help fight free radicals (those nasty unstable molecules) that build up in the body and lead us down a disease path.
Basil in an essential oil compound may help reduce inflammation such as arthritis or ulcers. It also can help to prevent viruses from turning to infections.
I don't know about you...but this amazing herb sounds like an easy way for us to reduce our inflammation markers & prevent some issues from arising... and it tastes so good!
Here are some ways to add basil to your daily menu:
- Watermelon & basil salad... so yummy! And top it with some pistachios.
- Caprese salad or sandwich with mozzarella, tomatoes & balsamic vinegar...with basil as your topper! And add it to pizza as well...
- Make homemade pesto sauce with fresh basil! WOW!
- Sweet potato recipe: topped with basil (see recipe below)
- Top avocado toast with basil leaves
- Add to pasta dishes with whole or sliced basil leaves
SWEET POTATO BRUSCHETTA:
1- sweet potato-sliced in coins (leave skin on)
1- cup diced avocado
1- cup diced tomato
1 cup diced red onion
Basil leaves as toppers
Balsamic glaze
PREPARATION:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. (Or a little higher if your oven is not fan-forced)
Grease a baking tray with oil and rub the potato coins in the oil, being sure to coat both sides. Lay coins flat on the tray in a single layer and season with sea salt and black pepper.
Roast potato coins, undisturbed for 15-20 minutes. Carefully flip coins over- the undersides should be dark brown. If they are not, let them roast a little longer.
Return to the oven and allow to roast for another 10 minutes or so- until the tops match the undersides.
Meanwhile, combine onion, tomatoes and avocado in a bowl. When the potatoes are done, remove and place onto a serving plate.
Top each coin with topping mix from above and garnish with fresh Basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze!
So yummy! Enjoy!!
As always, stay healthy & safe! You mean the world to me!
xoxo
Michelle
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