Embrace the flavors of fall with our Immunity-Boosting Toast, starring the superfood pitaya alongside autumnal pears, crunchy almonds, and a medley of berries. This nutritious toast is not only a feast for the eyes but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants to support your immune system during the cooler months.
Ingredients:
- Slices of whole-grain bread, toasted
- Pitaya spread or freshly blended pitaya (dragon fruit)
- Thinly sliced ripe pears
- A handful of mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries)
- A sprinkle of sliced almonds
- A drizzle of honey or a vegan sweetener (optional)
- A pinch of cinnamon for spice and warmth
Instructions:
- Toast the bread to your liking.
- Spread a generous layer of pitaya over the toast OR mix greek or coconut yoghurt with pitaya.
- Artfully arrange berries on top.
- For your second toast mix greek youghurt with Immunity blend ( I use the one from Unicorn Superfoods which includes Orange, Carrot, Mandarin, Lemon, Turmeric Extract, Monk Fruit Extract and Ginger ) Its a perfect addition to your kitchen. Sprinkle with almonds and mixed seeds, adding texture and nutty flavor.
- Optionally, drizzle with honey and a dash of cinnamon for extra sweetness and spice.
- Serve immediately and enjoy a burst of immune-boosting nutrients.
Pitaya, commonly known as dragon fruit, offers several health benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Contains vitamins C and other antioxidants that protect against free radicals.
- Fiber Source: Promotes digestive health through its high fiber content.
- Prebiotics: Supports gut health by fostering beneficial gut bacteria.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Offers a variety of nutrients such as vitamin C, calcium, iron, and magnesium.
- Low Calorie: Makes for a light, nutritious snack that’s low in calories.
- Boosts Immune System: The high level of vitamin C and other antioxidants can help strengthen the immune system.
Ginger, oranges, lemons, and monk fruit are known to benefit the immune system, particularly during winter, in the following ways:
- Ginger: Contains bioactive compounds like gingerol which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, helping to boost immune response.
- Oranges: High in vitamin C, essential for the growth and repair of all bodily tissues, and known for its immune-boosting properties.
- Lemons: Also rich in vitamin C and can help increase white blood cells which fight infections.
- Monk Fruit: While not directly an immune booster, it’s a healthy sugar alternative that can reduce sugar intake, indirectly supporting immune health.
Together, these ingredients can help maintain a robust immune system during the colder months when people are more susceptible to illness.
- Calories: Approximately 320 Fiber: Approximately 12.6g Vitamins: Vitamin C from the pear and berries, vitamin E from the almonds and seeds, and B vitamins from the bread and seeds.