“The Sing-Along Dressing”

 
Question: I’m trying to eat healthier and am eating more vegetables, including salads, but I’m having a tough time finding dressings that aren’t filled with sugar and artificial ingredients. Can you help me?

 Answer: Yes I can with the following recipe. And this dressing may also be used as a dip or sauce. All the ingredients in this delicious dressing are extremely nutritious. For example, let’s take a look at the health history of one of its ingredients; the humble lime.

            From the 16^th to 18^th centuries, a vitamin-C deficiency disease called “scurvy,” which caused weakness and death, was epidemic among long-haul sailors. A British doctor discovered that drinking lime juice could prevent the disease, so sailors were required to drink lime juice daily, which earned them the nickname “Limey.”

            Limes do indeed contain a good amount of vitamin C, with more than 70 milligrams per cup. (They also provide vitamins A and K, folate, enzymes, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.) Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and natural antihistamine. It also helps the body manufacture collagen – sometimes called “the glue of the body” – a protein substance that supports tendons, bones, skin, cartilage, and connective tissue.

            Choose limes that are firm and brightly colored. They don’t have to be stored in the refrigerator, although it will keep them fresh longer.

 
“The Lime and the Coconut” Dressing

 1 cup coconut milk

Juice of 1 lime

2 tablespoons finely shredded coconut

1/2 teaspoon lime zest

1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

             Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk together until well blended. Of course, the dressing comes out best if you dance around the kitchen singing along to Harry Nilsson’s song “Coconut”! Makes about 1 cup.