It was 70 degrees yesterday in Northern California. A jump from the past week's 50s that only meant one thing: We must get outside. A hike, we decided, was the perfect activity. So, equipped with cameras and snacks and plenty of layers, just in case, we set out for what would turn into the most glorious day I've had in a while. California can be so bipolar.
As far as food goes this week, I've been simplifying things a bit, abstaining from dairy and eating more raw foods. I've found in the past that doing this for a couple weeks is like pressing a 'reset' button. Not a cleanse, per say, rather a renewal; just what my body needs to streamline internally. When I do cook, it's simple and warm one-bowl meals with few ingredients and lots of purity.
One of the ways I've been consuming more of the season's bounty is by juicing. You can cram so many great foods into one glass of juice. My favorite, so far, is this blend of blood orange, carrot and ginger, because the first time I sipped it I felt as though there were rays of sunshine beaming all around me. I happened to make it on a particularly cloudy day, too, so it was especially uplifting. It's a potent and energizing magic potion-- the word 'nectar' suits it well-- making me feel radiant and full of life. I think it tastes like sunshine.
You’ll need a good electric juicer to make it the way I do, but in case you don’t have one, I’ve also included smoothie directions further below. Make it first thing in the morning for a good dose of vitality. Try it instead of coffee... I challenge you.
Sunrise Nectar :: Serves 1
I always make sure to have fresh juice along with a snack or meal. Since we’re only extracting the liquid and leaving the fiber behind, the higher sugar content can be overwhelming if consumed by itself.
1 blood orange, peeled
3 small carrots
1 inch fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
Juice directions: Pulverize all ingredients in a good quality juicer. Stir with a spoon and sip slowly!
Smoothie directions: Steam the carrots until al dente, for easier blending. Leave the orange unpeeled, cut in half and squeeze the juice from it, and combine with 1 cup fresh-squeezed or store-bought (100% and unpasteurized) orange juice. Finely grate ginger. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Sip slowly!