Enjoy the Festive Season with Immune-Boosting Foods

Immune-Boosting Holiday Appetizers

Stuffed Bell Peppers

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup quinoa, cooked
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff the bell peppers with the quinoa mixture and place them in a baking dish.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
   
   
   

Garlic and Herb Hummus

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Add cumin, salt, and pepper, and blend again until well combined. If the hummus is too thick, add a bit of water until desired consistency is reached.
3. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with whole grain pita chips or vegetable sticks.
   
   

Nutritious Holiday Main Course

Baked Salmon with Lemon and Dill

Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support immune function and reduce inflammation.

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 lemons, sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the olive oil mixture over the salmon fillets.
5. Place lemon slices on top of the salmon and sprinkle with fresh dill.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
   
   

Immune-Boosting Holiday Desserts

Berry and Greek Yogurt Parfait

• 2 cups Greek yogurt
• 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup granola
• Fresh mint for garnish

1. In a glass or bowl, layer Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and honey.
2. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
3. Top with granola and garnish with fresh mint.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
   
   

Dark Chocolate Avocado Mousse

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

1. In a food processor, blend avocados until smooth.
2. Add cocoa powder, honey, almond milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until creamy and well combined.
3. Spoon the mousse into serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
4. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
   
   

Final Thoughts

Enjoying delicious and nutritious meals during the holiday season is possible with these immune-boosting recipes. By incorporating healthy ingredients that support your immune system, you can manage herpes symptoms and enjoy the festive season with confidence. Remember, a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are key to overall wellness. Happy holidays!