As we bid farewell to the chilly days of winter we welcome the freshness of spring – a time known for growth, renewal, and the return of green to leaves. Green is often seen as a colour symbolising optimism, health, and luck – all wonderful things to embrace as we approach the warmer months. Greet the first spring days with all things green on your plate, in your closet and in your drinks with the inspiring tips below.
Can you eat your way to a good night’s rest?
Incorporating different greens into your diet can help you have a more restful night’s sleep. A study found that kiwis are rich in serotonin, which is an essential neurotransmitter in our body, that could largely influence our sleep mechanisms. Kiwis were originally from China and known as Chinese gooseberry; the study found that eating two of these bright tropical fruits one hour before bed helped participants fall asleep quicker, and their general slumber improved. Furthermore, kiwi is loaded with antioxidants which is positively linked to optimal sleep.
Adding magnesium into your wellness routine has been proven to improve sleep efficiency, diminish insomnia and help you sleep for longer periods. While some people are opting for magnesium supplements you could also consume foods that are high in magnesium such as spinach or avocados. So next time you’re stuck for salad ideas (and tackling sleepless nights) you could toss some baby spinach, avocado and some of your favourite salad ingredients into a bowl and top it off with a microgreens-infused pesto.
Pops of pistachio, lime and mint
Needing a break from Barbie pink? Olive and sage aren’t just for pantry – this season’s hottest looks are in greens galore. “I am going green for Spring ’23 and here’s why: it’s super versatile, easy to style, and some of the season’s standout looks look best in green. From utility-driven olive shades to the new teal tones and even shots of acid lime, there is something for everyone across the green spectrum this spring, “ says Regina Popp, Senior Director of Fashion & Trend at DSW.
Green could be considered a universally flattering colour because there are so many different shades of greens to choose from. If you have a naturally cool complexion, you could accentuate your features with cool-toned greens such as teal, viridian, turquoise or celadon. The same applies for those warmer skin tones, donning garments in chartreuse, khaki, olive and moss will suit you best.
Versatile microgreens superfood pesto
Delicious pastas, drizzled over pizza, in a toasted cheese sandwich or a dollop with eggs…pesto instantly enhances so many mouthwatering dishes. Freshly made pesto is loved by many for being incredibly versatile, but a microgreens-infused pesto from MicroThumbs will take various dishes to new heights.
Despite their tiny size microgreens pack a mighty nutritional punch. In fact, these powerful greens boast so many incredible benefits! “Microgreens are rich in incredible phytochemicals, an active compound found in the greens, which are able to reduce inflammation as well as bolster support for your immune system – this is why they make a great addition to an assortment of meals and why they’re amazing in an infused pesto,” explains Rick Hein, MD of MicroThumbs.
Microgreens are tiny forms of young edible greens that are produced from herbs, vegetables and other plants. Recent research by Dr Thomas Wang of at the Agricultural Research Service of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has found that microgreens could help us lose weight, as well as the fact that the greens showed a higher concentration of glucosinolates, which are nitrogen and sulphur-rich compounds that might shield us against cancer.
Peppermint Paradise cocktail recipe
At your next spring soirée delight your loved ones with a refreshing peppermint cocktail. Oh-so-easy to drink, the fresh and punchy Peppermint Paradise cocktail below, courtesy of Malcolm Johani of Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront, is the perfect spring gathering partner.
Ingredients
1 x peppermint liquor
2 x Ciroc (or vodka of your choice)
1 x Chambord
15ml sugar syrup
15ml fresh lime juice
Egg white/ foaming agent
Method
Add the Peppermint Liquor, Ciroc, Chambord, sugar syrup, lime and egg white/ foaming agent to a shaker with ice. Shake well. Strain the shaken mix into your glass and garnish with edible flowers or fresh peppermint leaves.