This honey-mint vinaigrette is so versatile, it’s right at home with every course, from appetizer to dessert. Use it on any salad that would benefit from an herbaceous, sweet, yet bright dressing. Try it on fruit (especially watermelon–hello, summer!). Or have it my favorite way, tossed with green apple-cabbage slaw and piled on grilled fish tacos. Got more ideas? Tell me in the comments!
PAIN-REDUCING INGREDIENTS
Mint
This herb contains rosmarinic acid, which is both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative (oxidation causes cell deterioration). The more you can pack your diet with ingredients that fight inflammation and oxidation, the better your pain outcomes will be.
Honey
Honey stimulates the body to produce prostaglandin E2 and cyclooxygenase-2. These are inflammation mediators that increase blood flow, decrease swelling, and actually reduce the sensation of pain. This sweetener has a lower glycemic index than table sugar, which means your blood sugar level won’t have a dramatic spike (especially at the dose in this recipe). Moderated blood sugar level equals less inflammation and more stable hormonal levels throughout the body. And that means less pain.
Lemon Juice
The vitamin C found in lemons promotes collagen synthesis, which is essential for skin health and tendon elasticity. It also contains an antioxidant that protects against free radicals that cause cell damage (linked to arthritis symptoms). Further, vitamin C supports the immune system, helping to keep autoimmune conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)—associated with chronic joint inflammation—in check.
Dijon Mustard
Mustard seeds contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to relieve pain.
Celtic Sea Salt
This flavor enhancer contains lower sodium than table salt and is gathered by hand—as opposed to the industry standard of boiling sea water, which damages many of the trace minerals. We want these minerals—over 75 of them!—to stay intact because they’re a healthy source of electrolytes, keeping you well-hydrated and supporting all physiological systems.
Olive Oil
Besides fueling your body with healthy fat, high-quality olive oil contains oleocanthal, an enzyme that actually works like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, also known as NSAIDS (for example, ibuprofen). Oleocanthal interrupts the signals that cause you inflammation and pain. Studies show that NSAIDS are bad for the heart over time. So, the more we can pack foods into our diets that naturally reduce the sensation of pain, the less we’ll feel the need to turn to medications that cause negative side effects with regular use.
honey-mint vinaigrette recipe
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Juice of 1 lemon
¼ teaspoon salt, or more to taste
½ cup olive oil
¾ bunch fresh mint
- In a blender, combine the honey, mustard, lemon juice, and salt. Pulse for 30 seconds.
- While the machine is running, remove the insert in the cap and slowly drizzle in the olive oil; blend until emulsified.
- Add the mint and pulse about 15 times, or until the leaves have broken down, but flecks remain visible.
- Transfer to a bowl. Taste for seasoning and add more salt, if you like (remember: your salad may add some salty notes, too). Use right away.
Michelle-Marie Gilkeson
Michelle-Marie’s recipe for honey-mint vinaigrette was originally published in The Boston Globe.
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