Lunch: Citrus Blueberry Salad with Almond Relish and Minted Sugar

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey, Grapefruit

Health benefits of Citrus Blueberry Salad with Almond Relish and Minted Sugar

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Ingredients

1/2 cup toasted almonds chopped
1/4 cup pure cane granulated sugar
8 fresh mint leaves, chopped
2 ruby red grapefruits, segmented and juice reserved
2 yellow grapefruits, segmented and juice reserved
2 Navel oranges, segmented and juice reserved
2 tablespoons honey
One 2-inch piece fresh ginger, cut in half
1 pint fresh blueberries, picked over and rinsed

Instructions

Put the almonds, sugar and mint in a food processor and pulse briefly to make a coarse streusel-like topping. Transfer to a small bowl.
Combine the grapefruits and oranges in a large decorative bowl. Combine the reserved citrus juices in a small saucepan (you should have at least 2 cups, if you don't, add enough fresh orange or grapefruit juice to make up the difference). Add the honey and fresh ginger and bring to a boil. Cook until the mixture is reduced by half. Remove from the heat and let cool to room temperature, at least 30 minutes. Remove the ginger and pour the mixture over the citrus. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours.
Just before serving, stir in the blueberries. Top with the minted almond sugar and serve.