Irresistible Summer Recipes with doTERRA Essential Oils
"Flavor is the essence of food." - Unknown
Once again, we welcome Shelly Izzy to our blog. Today she's sharing how she uses essential oils in the kitchen for some amazing summer recipes that are sure to be a crowd favorite. Welcome, Shelly.
It was a sweltering Saturday afternoon, and the scent of blooming flowers wafted through my open kitchen window. I had just returned from the farmer’s market, my basket brimming with fresh produce, when I had an idea that would transform my summer cooking routine. As I reached for my trusty bottle of doTERRA Lemon Essential Oil, I knew this was going to be an adventure my taste buds wouldn't forget.
Welcome to my world of summer cooking with essential oils! Whether you're a long-time doTERRA enthusiast, someone who hasn't purchased in a while, or new to the idea of using essential oils in the kitchen, this blog is for you. Let’s dive into how we can make our summer meals not just delicious but extraordinary.
Fresh and Flavorful: The Power of Essential Oils in Cooking
You might be wondering, “Can I really cook with essential oils?” The answer is a resounding yes! Essential oils are concentrated extracts from plants, capturing their flavors and aromas in potent liquid form. Here’s why they’re a game-changer:
Intensity of Flavor: A few drops go a long way, offering a burst of flavor that fresh herbs and spices sometimes can’t match.
Versatility: They can be used in a variety of dishes, from drinks and desserts to main courses and salads.
Health Benefits: Many essential oils, like peppermint and ginger, not only enhance taste but also offer digestive benefits.
A Day in My Kitchen: Using doTERRA Essential Oils
Let me take you through a day in my kitchen where essential oils play a starring role.
Morning Energizer: Citrus Smoothie
My summer mornings start with a refreshing citrus smoothie. I blend together fresh oranges, a handful of spinach, some Greek yogurt, and a couple of drops of doTERRA Wild Orange Essential Oil. The oil elevates the citrusy notes and adds an invigorating zest that wakes me up better than any cup of coffee could. I usually add in Protein Powder and Fiber to this smoothie making for a filling breakfast.
Lunchtime Delight: Herb-Infused Salads
For lunch, I often prepare a crisp, vibrant salad. One of my favorites is a mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a homemade vinaigrette. The secret ingredient? A drop of doTERRA Basil Essential Oil. It gives the dressing a delightful herbal flavor that ties all the fresh veggies together beautifully.
Lemon and Basil Vinaigrette
Ingredients:
2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 drops of Basil essential oil
2 drops of Lemon essential oil
1 Tbsp sugar
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
1/2 cup olive oil
Salt & Pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Mix it all together and serve.
If you would rather have a fruit salad, toss your favorite seasonal fruits with a touch of honey, lime juice, and a drop of peppermint essential oil. The hint of mint adds a refreshing and unexpected twist to your classic fruit salad.
Afternoon Treat: Lavender Lemonade or Mocktail
When the afternoon sun is at its peak, I cool down with a glass of lavender lemonade. I make a simple syrup with water, sugar, and a drop of doTERRA Lavender Essential Oil, then mix it with fresh lemon juice and cold water. The calming properties of lavender coupled with the tartness of lemon create a drink that's both relaxing and revitalizing. Feeling adventurous? Try a mix of muddled berries, sparkling water, and a drop of grapefruit essential oil for a refreshing and vibrant mocktail.
Dinner Showstopper: Rosemary Chicken or Salmon
Dinner is where I like to get a bit fancy. One of my go-to dishes is grilled chicken. Before grilling, I marinate the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a few drops of doTERRA Lemon Essential Oil and one drop of Thyme Essential Oil. The oil infuses the meat with a deep, savory flavor, making each bite aromatic and satisfying.
Another dinner specialty is Herb-crusted Salmon with Rosemary and Dill. Combine chopped fresh rosemary and dill with panko breadcrumbs and a touch of rosemary essential oil for a flavorful crust. This aromatic topping elevates your salmon to a restaurant-worthy dish.
Why You Should Try Cooking with Essential Oils
Using essential oils in your cooking is not just about adding flavor; it's about creating an experience. Here are a few reasons to give it a try:
Impress Your Guests: Adding a touch of essential oil can elevate your dishes and impress anyone at your table.
Experiment and Have Fun: Cooking should be a joyful, creative activity. Experimenting with essential oils opens up a world of new flavor possibilities.
Health-Conscious Cooking: Essential oils can provide health benefits, making your meals not just tasty but also nourishing.
Get Started with doTERRA Essential Oils
If you're ready to embark on this flavorful journey, here are a few tips:
Start Small: A little goes a long way. Start with one or two drops and adjust according to taste. (With some oils, like oregano, I’d start with a toothpick dipped into the bottle first.)
Use High-Quality Oils: Make sure to use food-grade essential oils like those from doTERRA, which are safe for internal use.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different oils in various dishes. The fun is in discovering new combinations that you love.
Summer is the perfect time to explore the vibrant world of cooking with essential oils. Whether you’re enhancing a simple smoothie or preparing a gourmet meal, doTERRA essential oils can add that special touch. Let your culinary creativity run wild and discover the delightful difference essential oils can make in your summer kitchen!
Happy cooking, and here’s to making every meal an aromatic adventure.
