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I’ve got some delicious ways to incorporate fresh mint into your meals and drinks today, so be sure to keep reading!
So last month, I planted some herbs. And I’m happy to report that I have not yet killed them. Success!
You may remember that I found myself encouraged to plant these new herbs as part of my partnership with Ricola®, and when deciding which herbs to plant, I tried to find at least one that could be found in Ricola’s 10-herb blend, Chrüterchraft. My original plan was to grow peppermint, but the two nearby places I visited only had regular mint, so I decided to go with that.
But as for peppermint, it really is a powerhouse! Did you know that peppermint…
- Aids secretion, antibacterial
- Virostatic against Herpes simplex viruses (cold sores, shingles)
- Anticonvulsant for smooth muscle tissue, especially the digestive tract
- Relieves cramps
- Stimulates bile production
- Antiflatulent
- Stimulates gastric juices, accelerates gastric emptying
- Stimulates the appetite
- Astringent
- Effective against heartburn in limited doses (overdoses can cause heartburn)
- External: Acts as local anesthetic (cooling). Internal: Hyperemisation effect.
You can find out more about peppermint HERE!
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Since I wasn’t able to get my hands on some peppermint, I settled for regular mint, which I must say, I probably use more than I would have used the peppermint! Regular mint is incredibly refreshing, and is super versatile to boot.
So today, I wanted to share 8 different ways you can use fresh mint, along with some yummy recipes, too!
Infused in water
I absolutely LOVE putting mint in my water! My two favorite combos are strawberry + mint and lemon + cucumber + mint. So refreshing.
Combined with watermelon
If you chop up the mint nice and fine and pair it with watermelon (and maybe even some feta cheese, too!), it makes for a delicious combo.
Recipe to Try: Seriously Refreshing Watermelon Mint Salad with Feta
In ice cream
Hello, mint chip ice cream. And now you’ve got no excuse because…
Recipe to Try: Fresh Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
In a cocktail
The first drink that immediately comes to mind for me is a mojito. What about you guys?
Recipe to Try: Pineapple Mint Mojitos
In tea
I’m not a huge tea drinker, but I do like my iced tea. And have you guys ever tried sun tea? I think this sounds so good!
Recipe to Try: Sun Tea with Simple Syrup, Lemon, and Mint
In coffee
I would have never thought of this, but such a cool idea, right? Pour 1 can coconut milk into ice cube trays. Add two mint leaves to each cube. Place in the freezer. Brew an iced coffee K-cup pod (or just double strength brewed coffee like we do) over frozen cream cubes. OMG need to try this.
With pork
In my quest to find new ways to use my mint leaves, I kept coming across recipes for a mojo marinade that is apparently top notch. I think I’m really diggin’ the meat + mint thing!
Recipe to Try: Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
With veggies/in a side dish
There is one recipe in particular that stands out for me in this category…hence the reason for the category. WOW.
Recipe to Try: Sautéed Zucchini with Mint, Basil, & Pine Nuts
Another Recipe to Try: Dessert Pesto (I actually forgot about this super old guest post from Julie!)
Do you guys have any more to add?
Feel free to share ‘em in the comments below! I think the first one I’m going to try are those ice cubes for coffee!
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Jessie says
Theres a restaurant here in Kuwait that I eat at almost weekly. I order the “Z Fattoush” salad. It consists of: tomatoes, cucumber, mint, parsley, green onion, green peppers, greens, halloumi cheese, and thin oven baked bread cut into squares served with a vinaigrette. It’s absolutely delicious!
Danielle @ Little Mama Big Life says
I’m a big fan of all things mint! Its actually in the salsa recipe I posted today. That pork recipe sounds amazing! I’m totally pinning it to try soon. Thanks for sharing!
Courtney says
That recipe looks delicious, Danielle!!
Linz @ Itz Linz says
mint ice cream – oh yes!
Brynn says
i never realized how versatile mint can be. And to think I’ve only used it in mojitos and ice cream ;)
Grace @ Diary of A Running Sna says
That mint ice cream is calling my name!! And those coconut cream cubes are genius!