Benefits of Mangoes

The summer is a time for savoring refreshing and tropical fruits. One of the favorites of the season are mangoes.  Not only are they tasty, they are  good for you too.

Mangoes contain antioxidant compounds observed by scientists to protect against cancers of the prostate, leukemia, breast and colon.

Mangoes also contain natural fibers, pectin, and vitamin C that lower bad cholesterol.

In terms of physical effects,mangoes are great for clearing up the skin and improving eye health due to them providing vitamin A.

So enjoy this tasty tropical fruit raw or in your favorite smoothie.

From Our Heart to Yours

 

ORZO SALAD WITH ARTICHOKES, TOMATOES, CHICKPEAS & LEMON BASIL DRESSING

When people say they want to be healthier and go on various diets we all know most of the time they give in and eat the junk of their cravings. The will to eat healthy, like new year’s resolutions,  often breaks after a few days or a week at most. There is too much tasty junk our bodies develop cravings for, which means that people have to search to find tasty healthy foods. Here we have done the searching for you and are showcasing orzo salad with artichokes, tomatoes, chickpeas and lemon basil dressing. This salad won’t break your goal since it appeals to your taste buds as well as to your desire to be the healthiest you possible. Hopefully this recipe will bring new meaning to the words “I’ll have a salad” to you, your friends and family at your next meal.

What we like about this recipe:

The presence of lemons which is good for helping speed up your metabolism due to hydrochloric acid breaking down the proteins in the body.

Olive oil helps reduce bad cholesterol and encourages good cholesterol in the body.

Tomatoes provide a great form of hydration and full of vitamins and minerals needed by your body

INGREDIENTS:
4 cups vegetable broth (you can use water)
1 1/2 cups orzo
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
1 cup chopped artichoke hearts
1 cup chopped tomatoes
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Basil Dressing:
3/4 cup basil leaves, packed
2 cloves garlic, smashed
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS:
1. Pour the broth into a heavy large saucepan. Cover the pan and bring the broth to a boil over high heat. Stir in the orzo. Cook until the orzo is tender but still firm to the bite, stirring frequently, about 7 minutes. Drain the orzo through a strainer and rinse with cold water. Drain completely and transfer the orzo to a large bowl.

2. Add the chickpeas, artichokes, and tomatoes to the orzo. Stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper.

3. To make the dressing: in a blender or food processor, blend the basil, garlic, salt, and lemon juice until smooth. With the motor running, slowly add the oil. Blend until combined.

4. Pour dressing over orzo salad and stir until well combined. Serve salad immediately or chilled.

God provides all we need to eat clean.

From Our Heart to Yours

Fruits and vegetables that provide hydration

Since its summer time it is more important then usual to stay hydrated . Did you know there are several fruits and vegetables that can help you stay hydrated? Some examples include:

 Cucumber which is 96% water

 

Watermelon, a summertime favorite, also contains 96% water

Pineapple; a more tropical fruit selection, contains 95% water

Lettuce is 95% water.

So no matter if your in the mood for a refreshing smoothie or a crisp salad including these fruits and vegetables into your summer meals is a great way to hydrate and have something tasty too.

From Our Heart to Yours

 

BEET THE HEAT SMOOTHIE

Let’s face it. Its the middle of summer and sometimes its all to easy to give in and get a cold drink or smoothie from your local smoothie shop. Many of those stores add additional sugar to their drinks or artificial sweeteners. Besides who wants to go outside into the heat when you can satisfy your thirst for something cool from the comfort of your own home. This recipe not only is healthy but is  a delicious way to hydrate yourself.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped raw, red beets
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1 1/2 cup fresh pineapple
• 1/2 mango, peeled 
• 1 cup coconut water or filtered water
• 1/2 inch piece of fresh ginger
• 3 – 4 large ice cubes

Blend until smooth on high. Then serve and enjoy!

From Our Heart to Yours