In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yin & Yang demonstrates harmony. This relationship exemplifies that all that exists in the universe is complimentary yet opposite & interdependent of each other. This is true of seasons and food to be consumed during those seasons. As we approach the summer with heat, we want more cooling foods.
One of my go to recipes in the summer is a yummy Summer Pasta Salad!
How does this recipe help cool down the body and support summer health?
- Artichokes lower the heat in the liver and nourish the lung-yin (cooling substance)
- Olives limit abnormal discharge of fluids and other substances from the body, such as diarrhea and heavy sweating
- Zucchini and lemon juice expel heat and dampness from the body
- Basil and oregano promote the flow of Qi and refresh the mind
- Pasta/oregano nourish the body and promote digestion
- Garlic and onion detoxify the body
- Olive oil moisturizes the body
- Tomatoes cool down the body
Summer Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Tomatoes – 500 grams
Onion – 1 half Green or black
olives– 1 cup
Zucchini – 1 medium
Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
Fresh Oregano & Basil – 1 tbsp. each
Pasta – 1lb (quinoa based if possible!)
Olive oil – 3 tbsp
Garlic – 4 cloves
Salt & pepper – to taste
Instructions:
Cook pasta. Combine all ingredients together. Chill and serve.
TCM Summer Foods to Eat: Cooling – Yin foods
Meat
Pork
Fruit
Apples
Berries
Coconut Milk
Lemon
Pear
Watermelon / Melons
Vegetable
Bean Sprouts
Beets
Broccoli
Cabbage
Carrots
Cauliflower
Celery
Cucumber
Eggplants
Fennel (Bulbs or Seeds)
Jicama
Kale
Lettuce
Okra
Peppers
Potatoes
Sprouted Mung Beans
Summer Squash
Sunchokes/Artichoke
Tomatoes
Turnip
Zucchini
Legume
Mung Beans
Aduki
Barely
Lentils
Peas
Hummus
Grains - sustaining
Quinoa
Millet
Amaranth
Yin & Yang Balance
The following are more warming foods, however also considered ‘Pungent’ foods for Energy flow and healthy sweating* Yin becomes Yang and Yang becomes Yin.
Garlic
Turmeric
Ginger
Radish
Leek
Chives
Basil
Oregano
Notes:
Avoid over eating, excessive alcohol, spicy foods, rich foods, greasy foods. Don’t go overboard with fruit as it promotes sluggish bowels (heat).
Reduce overall meat intake as meat is building and warming.
