Showing posts with label drink. Show all posts
Showing posts with label drink. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 18, 2015

30 Fresh Healthy Juices + Benefits



I have become a little obsessed with juicing over the passed year. Fresh juice has done wonders on my skin and health (reduced the puffiness under my eyes and improved my skin tone and complexion etc.). It's a great way to incorporate extra vitamins into your diet. My 90 year old Uncle Phillip wrote a book called Codes for Longevity. He talks about the importance of eating leafy greens and other fruits and veggies to alkalize our bodies, stay strong, prevent disease and premature aging. I try my best to lead a healthy lifestyle, but sometimes it's hard to eat tons of veggies + boring for my taste buds. So, my solution is juicing. Spinach, kale, parsley, mint, dandelion ( FYI dandelion is a rough one. good luck), rapini, carrots, apples, beets, pears, grapefruit, lemons, ginger, peaches, limes etc. you name it. Anything that is juice-able and healthy I will juice it. Here are a list of my top 30 juice combos that I love and drink as often as possible. 

For optimal health benefits, drink the juice as soon as you juice it. I usually make 6 bottles every 3 days and drink 2 per-day on top of a semi-healthy diet (I will never be able to give up my occasional sweets ;). Store your juice in the fridge. I suggest using glass bottles with a cap. Drink your juice within 3 days or it may turn a tad funky on you...

Happy juicing my friends!


*I use a Krups Juicer. I also use a Ninja Blender for incorporating frozen fruits and goodies like avocados, passion fruit, maca and wheatgrass.


Here they are in no particular order:

1. juice spinach, lime, kiwi and green apple. blend in 1 frozen banana and 1 tbsp. wheatgrass powder.

2. carrot, cucumber, ginger

3. beet, pineapple, mango, kale

4. mango, pineapple, peach and coconut milk

5. pineapple, blood orange, lemon, lime, and grapes 

6. kale, spinach, lemon and apple

7. mango, peach, cumquats and kale

8. kale, apple, ginger, romaine, spinach, parsley and lemon

9. orange, lemon, ginger, plum, peach and turmeric powder

10. juice apple and pineapple. stir in 1 tsp. chia seeds and 1 tsp. maca powder.

11.  juice kale, spinach and orange. blend in  1/2 avocado, frozen mango and banana, 1 tsp. chia seeds and 1 cup almond milk

12. papaya, pineapple, apple cider vinegar and ginger <-- not the best tasting but great for colds.

13. cucumber, celery, tomato, lemon, ginger and apple

14. spinach, romaine, chard, orange, pineapple and cilantro

15. pumpkin, apple, nutmeg, cinnamon and 1 tsp.vanilla bean paste

16. strawberry, apple, pomegranate seeds and lime

17. cucumber, pineapple, lemon, aloe vera (remove the spines before juicing)

18. carrot, apple, spinach and ginger

19. grapefruit and mint (mince mint and add to the grapefruit juice)

20. carrot, dandelion, kale, apple, grapes, spinach, romaine, parsley, cucumber and celery (this one is a tad rough but worth the vitamins!)

21. coconut water and rose water <-- don't need to juice this one but I had to add it to the list. fabulous.

22. guava (guava seeds are a bit rough on some juicers...make sure your machine can handle it) romaine, lettuce, green apple and pear

23. tangerine, mango, apple, passion fruit (stir in after juicing. it's OK to drink the black passion fruit seeds.)

24. pineapple, ginger, pear and mint (mince mint and add to juice)

25. kiwi, kale, apple, honeydew, 1 tbsp. wheatgrass powder

26. pineapple, apples, oranges, dandelion and ginger

27. watermelon, passion fruit, guava, pineapple and spinach

28. apple, spinach, grapeA + blend with frozen banana and berries

29. peach, mango, blood orange and carrot

30. watermelon, lemon and mint (mince mint and add to juice)


-I stumbled across this awesome website that lists all the wonderful benefits of fruits and veggies!-

aloe vera - delays the aging process, cures dermatitis, alleviates menstrual problems, reduces arthritis pain, heals wounds, cures nausea, eliminates ulcers, lowers blood sugar levels, prevents diabetes, reduces oxidative stress, inhibits cancerous growth, promotes hair growth, and soothes acid reflux symptoms.
apples - quercetin, an antioxidant abundant in apples, helps reduce LDL/bad cholesterol oxidation. apples are rich in a fiber called pectin and may help reduce levels of toxic heavy metals in the body.
apple cider vinegar - helps with weight loss, detoxification, relief from arthritis, high cholesterol, diabetes, indigestion, depression, asthma and cancer. improves skin clarity and balancing the pH in your body.
avocados - high in potassium and contain monounsaturated fats which help to lower blood pressure. good source of vitamin K, which has been indicated to promote bone health.
bananas - a good source of B vitamins, which may help to remedy sleeplessness, mood swings, and irritability. They also contain vitamin C, as well as magnesium and potassium, which make them a great electrolyte replenisher, particularly after exercising 
beets - numerous studies have shown that beets can help oxygenate blood. they are a good source of folic acid and also contain vitamins A, C, choline, iodine, manganese, organic sodium, potassium, and fiber.
blackberries -an excellent source of vitamin C, blackberries have substantial amounts of fiber, iron, calcium, manganese, and potassium. berries are the highest source of antioxidants from fruits.
carrots - excellent source of vitamins A, B, and C. rich in beta-carotene and carotenoids; they help protect the body from cancer, cardiac disease, cataract and macular degeneration. They also contain iron, calcium, potassium, and natural sodium. 
celery - a great low calorie food, high levels of silicon in celery strengthen joints, bones, arteries, and connective tissues. high in minerals.
chard - high in vitamin K, which assists with blood clotting, and protects bones from fracturing. anti-inflammatory.
cilantro - has eleven components of essential oils, six types of acids (including ascorbic acid, better known as vitamin-C), minerals and vitamins. helps reduce skin inflammations, lowers cholesterol and blood pressure. high in iron and can benefit people who suffer with anemia. rich in calcium, vitamin A and C
coconut water/milk - promotes healthy digestion, protein, dietary fiber and natural sugars. mineral content includes calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, sodium, zinc, copper, manganese and selenium. vitamins B-6, C and E.
cucumbers contain potassium and phytosterols which can help lower cholesterol. 
dandelion - high in vitamin K, which is important for blood and bone health. it's a diuretic, and is very beneficial for the kidneys. supports the liver and gallbladder as well.
ginger - anti-inflamatory, nausea relief, protects against certain cancers, immune boosting properties
grapefruit - high in vitamin C and limonene, which may help protect against breast cancer. grapefruits have soluble fiber which can help to lower cholesterol.
grapes - vitamins A, B, C and folate, and contain many important minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium and selenium. The flavonoids found in grapes have antioxidant properties that can lessen the damage caused by free radicals, making them a great anti-aging fruit.
guava - promotes healthy eyesight, skin, brain health, thyroid health, cancer prevention and digestion. good source of vitamin C, copper,  B-3 and B-6.
kale - the highest vegetable source of vitamin K and may help the risk of developing certain cancers. it’s a fantastic source of calcium, chlorophyll, calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C. kale is low calorie and yet incredibly dense with nutrients. it’s also a good source of minerals, copper, potassium, iron, manganese, and phosphorus, as well as compounds which promote eye and skin health.
kiwi - excellent source of vitamin C. vitamin C helps heal cuts and wounds and keep teeth and gums healthy.
lemon - vitamin C and also contain smaller amounts of different vitamins like thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6, folate and vitamin E. Soothes sore throats, treats and prevents kidney stones. improves liver function, immune system, weight loss, gum disorders, blood pressure, balancing pH, detoxification and skin care.
lime - contain vitamin C, vitamin B-6, folic acid, potassium, flavonoids and many other phytonutrients.
maca - rich in vitamin B vitamins, C, and E. It provides plenty of calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorous and amino acids. Boosts libido and may alleviate anxiety, stress, depression or mood swings. maca supplies iron and helps restore red blood cells, which aids anemia and cardiovascular diseases. maca keeps your bones and teeth healthy and allows you to heal from wounds more quickly. when used in conjunction with a good workout regime you will notice an increase in muscle mass.
mango - excellent source of vitamin A and C, which is very beneficial to maintaining a strong immune system. has been found to protect against colon, breast, leukemia and prostate cancers and is a good source of potassium, which is important in assisting to control heart rate and blood pressure. mango contains a great deal of flavonoids like beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin.
melons - antioxidant and anti-cancer. reduces the risk of cancer and stroke, due to a naturally occurring chemical called adenosine.
mint - aids in digestion, nausea, headaches and coughs. Helps boost mood and fatigue, soothes skin and respiratory system.
oranges - excellent source of vitamin C. vitamin C helps heal cuts and wounds and keep teeth and gums healthy.
papaya - antioxidant, anti-cancer. promote healthy digestion and can reduce constipation with their potent enzymes. high in vitamins A, C, and potassium.
passion fruit - antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamin A, vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, fiber, and protein. improves immune system, cancer prevention, eye health, digestion, blood pressure, insomnia and respiratory system.
peaches - excellent source of vitamin A and potassium. peaches also contain boron and niacin. antioxidant and anti-cancer.
pears - great source of fiber. contains vitamin C, boron, and potassium.
pineapples - great for improving digestion. a good source of potassium and has vitamin C and iron. contains anti-inflammatory compounds such as bromelain.
plums2nd highest source of antioxidants from fruits. good source of vitamin A and contain some calcium and vitamin C. antibacterial.
pomegranates - rich in tannins and flavonoids. pomegranates hold promise in helping reduce the risk of prostate cancer due to their lycopene and other phytonutrient content. They are the 3rd highest fruit source of antioxidants.
pumpkin - strengthens metabolism, promotes healing, boosts mood, protects bones, prevent cancers, eliminates kidney stones. helps with inflammation, immune system, defense against parasites and detoxify the body. impressive levels of manganese, tryptophan, magnesium, copper, phosphorous, zinc, iron, and protein, as well as smaller amounts of B complex vitamins, and   vitamin A. anti-cancer properties and components, including phenolic compounds that have directly been attributed to scavenging free radicals
romaine lettuce - contains calcium, omega-3's, vitamin C, iron, and B-vitamins. romaine is also rich in minerals.
spinachexcellent source of vitamins A, C, and E. good source of calcium, iron, potassium, protein, and choline. choline supports healthy mental function.
strawberries - excellent source of vitamin C, which helps heal cuts and wounds and keep teeth and gums healthy. antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-cancer.
tangerines - contains similar properties as lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits. lots of vitamin C 
tomatoes - excellent source of vitamin C, as well as antioxidants that may prevent cancer, such as lycopene. lycopene promotes overall mental and physical health. good source of potassium. antioxidant and anti-cancer.
watermelon - antibacterial and anti-cancer. Contains vitamin A and C, as well as iron and potassium. 
wheatgrass - rich in chlorophyll, which is excellent at fighting infections. high in vitamins C and E, and beta carotene. antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antibiotic.



Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Golden Turmeric Milk Tea {Immunity Booster}


It seems like everyone I know has had the sniffles this past month. Some how I have miraculously escaped the seasonal bug this year…knock on wood. I have been drinking lots of veggie juice and many cups of this wonderful “Golden Turmeric Milk Tea.”

Turmeric, in recent years has attracted a lot of attention for its healing properties and various health benefits. It is a well known home remedy for headaches, colds, chest pain, sore throat, toothaches and many other ailments. It has anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants galore. Recent studies have even claimed it aids in preventing and treating diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's. It’s undeniably a magical spice. You can drink it daily or whenever you need an added immunity boost. It sounds odd but tastes amazing -- similar to a vanilla chai.


Ingredients

2 cups of milk
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 inch of fresh ginger root chopped
2 tablespoons honey (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon grated cardamom
¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg
1 aniseed star (optional)
3 threads of saffron (optional)

Directions
Heat all ingredients in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir to prevent the milk from scalding. Heat until little bubbles start to form around the edge of the pan. Do not boil. Strain and serve warm. *I like to grate a bit more nutmeg on top or float star anise.




Monday, September 1, 2014

Sweet and Creamy Almond Macadamia Nut Milk


Ingredients:
1 cup almond
½ cup macadamia
1 cup pitted dates
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
6 cups of water
sprinkle with nutmeg and cinnamon {optional}


Directions:
-Add first 5 ingredients into a blender and blend until the nuts have turned into a fine pulp.
-Slowly pour the blended mixture though a fine mesh {sieve} that has been placed over a large bowl. Use a spoon to scrape through the sieve – helping the milk drain.
-If serving right away, pour the clean nut milk into a martini shaker filled with ice. Shake, pour and serve.
-Sprinkle with nutmeg and cinnamon

*Keep refrigerated and drink within 5 days.

Keep the leftover nut pulp for healthy "Protein Bites" in lieu of cashews. 



Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Chai Latte With A French Press {Using Coffee}







So traditionally chai lattes are made with a spiced black tea...."Chai TEA latte" but we're getting crazy here with this recipe and using coffee instead! I made this yesterday and it was marvelous -- so much flavor! What a special treat to start your day off right!

Serves 2

Ingredients:
1 cup coffee grounds
1 1/2 tsp. ground ginger
4 thin slices of fresh ginger
3 aniseed stars
1 tbsp. cinnamon + extra for sprinkling 
1 tbsp. cardamom
1 tsp. whole allspice
1/8 tsp. ground clove {whole clove optional}
pinch of salt
pinch of pepper

4 cups hot water
1/2 cup evaporated milk {=1/4 cup into each mug}
1/4 cup condensed milk  {=2 tbsp. into each mug}

Whipped cream

Directions:
Combine coffee grounds and spices in a French press. Add hot water and give it a good stir. Let steep for 5 minutes. Then place the lid on the French press and gently push the sifter making sure the spices and coffee grounds stay below the seal. Pour the spiced coffee into drinking cups or mugs. Now add evaporated and condensed milk among the cups.

Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon.

* Honestly I like both chai {coffee or tea}...if you're looking for a bold flavor, you'll love this coffee version. If you prefer a smoother taste I suggest substituting 6 black tea bags in replace of the 1 cup of coffee grounds for a tradition chai tea latte.




Picture:French press with spoon

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Dragon Fruit, Peach & Lime Smoothie


 Every now and then I like to try something new. I love going to our local Asian market and to pick up fruits like cherimoya, durian, mangosteen or this here dragon fruit. So I bought dragon fruit the other day and didn't know what to do with it. I embarrassingly admit that I had to google "how to eat dragon fruit". I decided to use mine in a smoothie with whatever I had around the house. It turned out amazing... I had to share it with you guys.

Serves 2
Ingredients:
1 dragon fruit
1 cup frozen peaches
1 lime {juice}
1/3 cup condensed milk
3 ice cubes

Directions:
Cut the dragon fruit in half and scoop the insides into a blender. You can pitch the pink skins {or use them as fun serving bowls later in the day}. Throw the rest of your ingredients into the blender and blend until smooth.

Simple as that. So yummy and chock-full of vitamin C!

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Life Lately According to Instagram

So much has happened in the past few months! I wish I could keep up with all these posts! Here is what we've been up to lately. Follow along on instagram if your heart desires.


~ Early morning Espresso con panna pick-me-ups. Dan and I love our espresso maker
~ I made some white ceramic branch spoons!
~ Diggin' my new wax stamp.
~ Enjoying our CA winter with some mango smoothies in the backyard...sorry North East.
~ Shenanigans at our friends wedding
~ Mom's tea roses and dragon fruit from our favorite Asian Market.
~ Hiking in Idyllwild and surfing in San O
~ A cooking class and the soco farmers market
~ Our new favorite breakfast recipe {eggs over sauteed kale, caramelized onions and sausage}
~ Avocado honey. Yum.
~ Cortaditos and beach camping
~ Rosemary cranberry skewers and painting with Mom











Friday, January 17, 2014

Bar Cart Bliss

Ahhhh I've been dying for a gold bar cart! Alas I cannot find one that I love that is in my very limited budget. I have no idea why they are so expensive!!!? $1200? Why!? So, I will continue my hunt for the perfect {and affordable} cart. I just love how they bring a refined vibe into your home. I guess if a bar cart could talk it would say, “Yeah. I like to party, but I be classy.” Plus it's a great way to display some of your favorite items… artsy glassware, flea market finds and pretty bottles etc. Daaaaarling, The styling opportunities are endless. It would be perfect for little get-togethers with friends. And the bar cart has been around since the mid-1930′s so you KNOW it’s not going out of style any time soon. Here are some carts from around the web + decorating inspiration!

















Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Frosted Rosemary Sprigs with Cranberries {Drink Garnish}

I made these for our Christmas party this year. They are so easy to make and they look really pretty. I paired mine with a Brut Champagne (but I'm sure they would work with a variety of drinks}. The rosemary is very aromatic -- a lovely little surprise that lingers in your glass. 

Here's what you'll need: 
5 inch or longer rosemary sprigs {= to # of glasses you'll be serving}
1 bag of fresh cranberries
1 bowl of water
1 cup of sugar {for dusting}

 ^^^ strip the rosemary so that just the top needles are left. Spear each cranberry in the middle and push it up towards the top.

 ^^^Dip the Rosemary needles into the water bowl and then into the sugar. Tap to get any excess sugar off.

^^^Then put them in the freezer and take them out just before your guests arrive.





Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Creamy Pumpkin Paleo Shake


Hello Fall!

I love autumn with all its colorful leaves, chunky sweaters, boots and scarves, cold nights with hot apple cider and decorating pumpkins. I secretly love it when it gets dark early, it gives us more cozy time indoors and Dan doesn't surf until 7:00 at night. What can I say? I love spending time with my Hub. I thought it would be fun to add to the fall festivities with a new recipe -- Creamy Pumpkin Spice Shake. And guess what!? It’s Paleo!

1/2 cup almond milk or coconut milk
1/2 cup pumpkin puree {no sugar added}
1 banana
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon raw honey { I'm not 100% sure if raw honey is considered Paleo. I researched different sites and some say yes and others say no, so it's up to you if you want to add it}
5-7 ice cubes

Throw it all in a blender and that's it!

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Guava Grapefruit Summer Cocktail

 
What you'll need:
 
1 cup guava juice
1/2 cup grapefruit juice
1/4 cup Perrier sparkling water
1 shot vodka
grapefruit wedges and peel
ice
 
Directions: mix all ingredients together and pour over ice
{Serves:1}
 
 


Saturday, May 18, 2013

Flavored Milk Straws

I found the coolest flavored milk straws the other day and they are kid approved too (I had my nanny baby try one and she loved it). 

 How they work:
* Step 1 - Dip your straw into a glass of plain milk. (Do not cut the straws)
* Step 2 - Take a long sip
* Step 3 - Powerful flavor beads magically transform your milk into a delicious treat

 Fun facts that make you love them even more!
* No Artificial Colors
* No Preservatives
* No Artificial Flavors
* Gluten Free

Flavors:
* Banana
* Orange Cream
* Wild Berry
* Chocolate Peanut Butter
* Strawberry Banana
* Vanilla Milkshake
* Strawberry
*cookies and cream 
 
These are so much fun! Where were these when I was a kid? Ok so I'm not going to lie...I picked the pack up for myself.