Embrace Summer Wellness with Nutrient-Rich Recipes and Mindset Tips

Summer is a season of vibrancy, warmth, and a perfect time to indulge in wholesome foods that not only nourish the body but also uplift the spirit. At AcuBliss Acupuncture & Holistic Medicine, we believe that wellness is a journey encompassing what you eat, how you move, and the mindset you cultivate. To help you make the most of this sunny season, we've curated some delightful recipes and insightful tips to boost your well-being.

Vegetable and Chickpea Curry

As temperatures rise, there's nothing quite like a hearty yet light curry to satisfy your cravings without weighing you down. This Vegetable and Chickpea Curry is packed with seasonal squash, nutrient-rich beans, and aromatic spices that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 tablespoons virgin coconut oil

• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 1/2 pounds winter squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch chunks

• 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• 1 x 1-inch piece ginger, peeled and shredded

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 3 ripe tomatoes, coarsely chopped

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 1 - 14 ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 9 ounces broccoli, cut into florets

• 2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

• Salt and ground pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)

Instructions:

1. Heat coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.

2. Stir in squash and cook for another 3 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, and ground spices, cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Add cinnamon, tomatoes, broth, and chickpeas. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.

4. Add broccoli and green beans, cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender.

5. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with pepitas.

Raw Chocolate Nutbutter Cups

Treat yourself to these decadent yet wholesome Raw Chocolate Nutbutter Cups. Made with raw cacao, coconut oil, and a creamy nutbutter filling, they're a guilt-free indulgence perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup melted coconut oil

• 1/2 cup raw cacao powder

• 2.5 tablespoons pure maple syrup

• Pinch of sea salt flakes

• Nutbutter (or sunflower seed butter)

• Sea salt flakes or cacao nibs for topping

• Optional: 1 tablespoon superfoods (mesquite, lucuma, acai, maca)

Instructions:

1. Whisk together melted coconut oil, cacao powder, maple syrup, and sea salt until smooth.

2. Pour a small amount into mini muffin cases or chocolate molds. Place in the freezer for 5 minutes to set.

3. Spoon nutbutter into each chocolate, then top with more chocolate mixture.

4. Chill in the fridge or freezer for at least 30 minutes until set. Sprinkle with sea salt or cacao nibs before serving.

Beet and Apple Burgers

For a twist on traditional burgers, try these Beet and Apple Burgers. Packed with shredded beets, apples, and aromatic spices, they're not only delicious but also versatile enough for sliders or meatballs.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded beets

• 1/2 cup shredded apples

• 1/2 onion, chopped and browned

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1/2 cup parsley, chopped

• 2 teaspoons cumin

• 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt

• Black pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons walnut or macadamia oil

• 1/4 cup water

• 5 tablespoons ground chia seeds (or 2 eggs)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Squeeze excess juice from shredded beets and apples using a clean kitchen cloth.

3. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients thoroughly.

4. Form mixture into patties and place on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake for 45 minutes, flipping halfway through. Be gentle as they will be soft.

Summer Mindset Tips

Achieving wellness isn't just about what you eat—it's also about cultivating a positive mindset. Here are some tips inspired by our philosophy:

• Tune into Your Intuition: Trust your instincts in making decisions that align with your well-being.

• Switch Off Daily: Dedicate at least one hour a day to disconnect from technology for mental clarity.

• Make Happiness a Priority: Prioritize activities and choices that bring you joy and fulfillment.

• Be Playful: Infuse playfulness into your daily routine to reduce stress and enhance creativity.

Summer is a time for renewal and embracing a healthy lifestyle. With these recipes and mindset tips, we hope to inspire you to nourish your body, mind, and spirit this season. Whether you're enjoying a colorful curry or savoring a raw chocolate treat, remember to cherish each moment and prioritize your well-being. Here's to a vibrant and fulfilling summer ahead!

Yours in Health,
Dr. Amorette LaFranchi, L.Ac., DACM