"The greatest wealth is health"

As the world emerges from its winter slumber—particularly in the tri-state area, which recently experienced a 4.8 magnitude earthquake—spring offers us the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate our minds, bodies, and souls and to embrace healthy eating habits. Whether you are a wellness guru or just beginning your journey towards healthier eating, it is never too late to adopt a lifestyle that leads to optimal health.
As spring unfolds and we gear up for summer, it is crucial to maintain our health to fully enjoy the season. While we typically associate colds, flu, or COVID-19 with the colder months, these illnesses can strike at any time, including summer. Suffering from a summer illness can be particularly miserable, making it all the more important to incorporate fresh, healthy eating habits into our routines.
Light and Refreshing Grilled Kale Salad
I am a salad lover, mainly because of their nutrient value and the zest that a good dressing adds. I've started making my own dressing, which includes freshly squeezed lime, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh garlic, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. I prefer a mix of fresh kale, romaine lettuce, onions, walnuts, pecans, almonds, and cucumbers. I often enjoy this salad with any added protein, such as salmon, grilled chicken, or shrimp.

Recipe for a Nutrient-Packed Salad:
Greens:
3 cups chopped kale (stems removed)
2 cups chopped romaine lettuce (optional)
Vegetables:
1/4 cup cucumber, diced (optional)
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
Protein
Alaskan salmon filets, shrimp or chicken
Add-ons (optional):
1/4 cup
1/4 cup chopped pecans, walnuts or almonds
1 cup croutons, crushed (optional)
Seasonings:
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pinch of crushed red peppers
Dressing:
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
A pinch of kosher salt and pepper to taste (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
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Iced Matcha Green Tea with Oat Milk
I fell in love with using oat milk in my matcha tea while visiting a delightful restaurant J and M Cafe, in Portland, Oregon. Creamy, earthy, and refreshing, Iced Matcha Green Tea with Oat Milk offers the perfect blend of antioxidants and energy-boosting goodness. I drink matcha almost every day. When traveling, I often stop by Starbucks to grab a hot or iced matcha.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon of high-quality matcha powder
2 tablespoons hot water
1 cup unsweetened oat milk
Ice cubes
Optional sweetener: honey, maple syrup, or organic brown sugar (to taste)
Optional garnish: lemon slices, mint leaves


Plant-Based Power
Embracing a plant-based diet not only supports sustainability but also boosts your nutritional intake with essential fibers and proteins. Stir-frying, a versatile and quick cooking method, is excellent for preserving the nutrients in vegetables while adding delicious flavors. Using a variety of vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, along with plant proteins such as tofu or tempeh, can create filling and nutritious meals. This approach ensures you get a balanced intake of fiber, which aids digestion, and protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth. Integrating these elements into your diet can enhance overall health and energy levels, making it a powerful choice for anyone looking to improve their dietary habits.

Hydration and Refreshment
Staying hydrated is crucial. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day. Whether it's morning, afternoon, or evening, or after a hectic day, enjoy a non-alcoholic spritzer.

Spring Blossom Mocktail
Celebrate the beauty of spring with an exquisite Spring Blossom Mocktail, bursting with citrus flavors. This non-alcoholic spritzer captures the essence of the season in every sip. Perfect for breakfast, brunches, social gatherings, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, this mocktail is sure to brighten your day.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup elderflower syrup
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 cups sparkling water
Ice cubes
Edible flowers for garnish (such as pansies, violets, or lavender)
Lemon slices for garnish
This is a time to focus on boosting your immunity with fresh fruits and vegetables, which are essential for maintaining a strong and healthy immune system. Include foods like whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your diet. Indulge in nutrient-rich greens such as spinach and kale. I love green foods because they are packed with antioxidants. Many of my friends and colleagues, know me well; they would tell you that Kamika always enjoys her matcha green tea with oat milk, and pineapple juice served with a cube of ice. I make a conscious effort to incorporate foods that are rich in vitamins C, D, and E, as well as zinc and selenium, which can provide an extra boost for immune support.

As we bid goodbye to winter and embrace the joys of spring, let us commit to nourishing our bodies with wholesome foods that enhance our well-being. Celebrate the season with joy, happiness, wellness, healthy food, and positive energy. With the tips and nutritious recipes I have provided in this blog, I hope that you can embark on a journey to vibrant health and vitality, one delicious bite at a time.
May this spring season bring renewal, growth, and splendid health.
If you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to share them in the comments. Happy reading and until next time!
Let's stay connected.

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