Cool Off with Mint
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In summer drinks and salads, fresh mint leaves add calming aroma, refreshing flavor, and a dash of vitamins and minerals. An antioxidant in mint, rosmarinic acid, is anti-inflammatory and may help to relieve seasonal allergies. Mint is also a natural digestive aid. Here are some simple ways to enjoy these benefits:
- Give water a hint of natural sweetness by keeping a bunch of fresh mint in your water pitcher in the fridge.
- Blend watermelon and ice, and then add a few leaves of mint per glass. For extra flavor, muddle the mint first-press (but don’t shred) the leaves with a muddler or handle of a wooden spoon.
- Add mint leaves to salads. Mint works well with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese.