4 Immune-Boosting Honey Recipes to Keep the Flu Away This Fall
Summer's over, and it's time to embrace the cozy vibes of fall. But let's be real—along with pumpkin spice lattes and sweater weather, autumn also brings the dreaded flu season. Before you start stocking up on tissues, why not boost your immune system with some delicious and natural remedies? These honey-based recipes are packed with immune-boosting superfoods that will help keep those pesky germs at bay. And trust me, they're so tasty, you won't even mind taking your medicine.
How Does Honey Help With Cold Prevention?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s take a quick look at how honey is a natural ally in flu prevention. Honey has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help slow the spread of cold-causing pathogens. Its thick consistency also creates a soothing barrier for the throat, easing irritation and reducing the coughing often associated with respiratory infections. Additionally, honey is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, combat oxidative stress, and boost overall immune health. See? Your grandmother was onto something when she added honey to her teas. It’s a delicious and beneficial way to protect your body against seasonal illnesses.
Now that you understand the science behind honey and cold prevention, let’s get to the recipes. Below are three honey-infused recipes you can try at home. These recipes were also created with the Siika Herb & Honey collection in mind. We love adding their condiments to our recipes, and pretty positive you’ll love them too.
Honey-Glazed Salmon
For a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner, try this honey-glazed salmon. The FREDDIE Sweet & Spicy Honey combines the heat of pimento peppers with the sweetness of honey, creating the perfect balance of hot and sweet.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon filets
- ¼ cup SIIKA HERB & HONEY FREDDIE HONEY
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease the pan.
- Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Season Salmon: Pat the salmon filets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Brush the filets with olive oil.
- Apply Glaze: Place salmon filets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops generously with the honey glaze.
- Bake: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. You can also broil the salmon during the last two minutes of cooking to caramelize the top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve with your favorite side dishes.
Honey-Balsamic Roasted Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
Honey-balsamic roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts are a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and slightly bitter flavors, creating a perfectly balanced dish. Enhancing a dish with ingredients that not only taste delicious but also support your immune system is always a win. The SIKKA HERB & Honey MAMA offers a harmonious blend of honey, rosemary, and mint, perfectly balancing the sweet and tangy flavors of honey and vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into ½-inch sticks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons SIKKA HERB & HONEY MAMA
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts and carrot sticks. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Make Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Coat Vegetables: Pour the honey mixture over the vegetables and toss until they are well coated. Then spread the coated vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the vegetables.
- Bake: Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and brussels sprouts are crispy on the edges. Stir halfway through for an even roasting.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Honey Yogurt Parfait
On those busy mornings when you're short on time, try preparing this quick and easy honey recipe using SIIKA & HERB RENEE ANASTASIA HONEY. This delicious and nutritious breakfast option will provide you with a burst of energy and essential nutrients to start your day off right.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup SIIKA & HERB HONEY RENEE ANASTASIA
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup granola (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- Optional: A sprinkle of chia seeds or nuts for extra texture
Instructions:
- Prepare Yogurt Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, SIIKA & HERB RENEE ANASTASIA HONEY, and vanilla extract. Stir the honey until it is fully mixed into the yogurt.
- Layer Parfait: In serving glasses or bowls, start by adding a layer of the honey yogurt mixture. Follow with a layer of granola and then a layer of fresh berries.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the glass or bowl. Top it off with a layer of berries and a drizzle of honey.
- Garnish (Optional): For added texture and flavor, sprinkle some chia seeds or nuts on top of the parfait.
- Serve: Serve immediately for a fresh breakfast or refrigerate for an hour before serving if you prefer a chilled parfait.
Honey-Ginger Turmeric Latte
A honey-ginger turmeric latte is a delightful blend of warm almond milk, fragrant spices, and the natural sweetness of honey. This creamy and flavorful beverage is perfect for chilly days and will leave you feeling refreshed and energized.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon SIIKA HERB & HONEY YAAYO
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Optional: A pinch of black pepper
Instructions:
- Heat milk: In a saucepan, heat the almond milk over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
- Add spices: Add honey, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg, and black pepper to the hot milk.
- Stir: Stir until well combined.
- Pour: Pour into a mug and enjoy.
By incorporating these delicious and nutritious recipes into your daily routine, you can give your immune system a boost and stay healthy throughout the season. Remember, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular exercise are also essential for maintaining a strong immune system. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the benefits of these immune-boosting delights!
