There’s nothing like fresh lemonade – cleansing and refreshing on your palate, with the bonus that lemons are so good for you. Everyone knows lemons are high in vitamin C (28 per cent), but they are also high in vitamin B6, vitamin A, vitamin E, folate, niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, copper, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, phosphorus and protein. That’s a pretty powerful list.
Lemons may help to control blood pressure, are great for weight loss and help to relieve problems that relate to indigestion and constipation. They are said to assist in the treatment of rheumatism and arthritis, and they can help provide relief from cold and fevers. Lemons are also a blood purifier and an awesome immune-system booster. They also are thought to have a therapeutic effect on mental stress and depression. The humble ol’ lemon has so much goodness to offer our general wellbeing.
This lemonade recipe uses agave or maple syrup for sweetness instead of a lot of processed sugar, and also contains chia seeds with all their omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, magnesium and truckloads of antioxidants. Drink this fresh lemonade for radiant skin and that internal glow!
Makes: approx. 1 litre
Soaking time: 10 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
1 tablespoon chia seeds, soaked in 1 cup filtered water for 10 minutes (stir a few times)
½ cup lemon juice
¼ cup light agave (or maple) syrup*, or to taste
¼ teaspoon quality salt
1 tablespoon unpasteurised apple cider vinegar*
750ml soda water
25mm piece fresh ginger, finely grated (optional)
Ice cubes
Garnish
2 lemons, 1 sliced into discs, the other peeled into curls
* You’ll find these ingredients at your local health-food store or online.
Directions
Place soaked chia seeds in a large glass jug with all the remaining ingredients, except the ice cubes and garnish. Stir until well combined.
Serve lemonade over ice cubes in glasses and garnish with lemon discs and curls
HUNGRY by Anthea Amore (self published) will be available for purchase on organicpassioncatering.com and in select health food and book stores across Australia for RRP$39.95 (flexi cover) and RRP$49.95 (hard cover).
