Skin is the body's largest organ, reacting to hormones, the environment, even to sleep. So protecting it is vital. These recipes will help nourish your 20 square feet of skin from the inside.
Sweet Potato & Red Pepper Pasta
Vitamin A is a treat for your complexion, and sweet potatoes and red peppers are loaded with it. Combine them for a double dose of skin smoothing.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole-wheat angel hair pasta
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups shredded, peeled sweet potato (about 1 medium)
- 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup diced plum tomatoes
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
- 1 tablespoon white-wine vinegar, or lemon juice
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta until just tender, 4 to 5 minutes or according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, place 1 tablespoon oil and garlic in a large skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the garlic is sizzling, 2 to 5 minutes. Add sweet potato, bell pepper, tomatoes and water and cook, stirring, until the bell pepper is tender-crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the heat; cover and keep warm.
- Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water. Return the pasta to the pot. Add the vegetable mixture, the remaining oil, parsley, tarragon, vinegar or lemon juice, salt and cheese; toss to combine. Add the reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, to achieve the desired consistency.
Simple Salmon Hors d'Oeuvres
Salmon is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for repairing skin damage and moisturizing the skin. Assemble these snacks for your next party and serve your guests a glowing dermis.
Ingredients
- 16 slices party-size pumpernickel bread (or thinly sliced baguette)
- 1/2 cup horseradish cream
- 16 slices smoked salmon
- Dill sprigs, for garnish
Preparation
- Top each bread slice with 1 1/2 teaspoons horseradish cream and 1 slice salmon.
- Garnish with a sprig of dill.
Cantaloupe-OJ-Kale Smoothie
Vitamin C is your beautifying best friend, boosting collagen and calming your overall complexion. Oranges, sunflower seeds and leafy greens such as kale are packed with the vitamin. Juicing is a great way to get nutrients into the body fast; try this kale shake instead of a trip to the makeup counter.
Ingredients
- 3 kale leaves
- 1/2 cantaloupe, seeded and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup orange juice
Preparation
- Wash kale and remove tough ribs. Place in blender with cantaloupe and orange juice. Blend for 30 seconds.
Source: Eating Well