Ginger is a favorite spice for Asian dishes, often combined with garlic and lemon. It also has health benefits that make it just as good for you as good to eat. I love the taste of ginger, especially ginger tea. My husband loves ginger dressing on his salads. Here is a recipe he really likes. Following the recipe, read about the many health benefits of ginger.
Citrus Ginger Dressing
6 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 grapefruit or orange (with zest), peeled and seeded
1 1/2 tablespoons wine or balsamic vinegar
1 clove garlic
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated or sliced ginger
1/8 teaspoon each black pepper and salt or to taste
Directions
Using a zester or a sharp knife remove zest (or peel) of one half of the citrus fruit that you’ll be using — add to blender or food processor bowl.
Process garlic, vinegar, citrus and peel. Allow to sit five minutes. Add remaining ingredients and process one more time, briefly.
Serve with your favorite salad vegetables. Or add a tablespoon of soy sauce and toss with udon or other Oriental noodles.
To use with fruit, add one to 2 teaspoons of sugar and omit garlic, salt and pepper. When preparing this dressing for use with fruit be sure to use balsamic vinegar. This version goes well with fresh strawberries or grapefruit wedges.
Health Benefits of Ginger
Colon Cancer Prevention
A study at the University of Minnesota found that ginger may slow the growth of colorectal cancer cells.
Morning Sickness
A review of several studies has concluded that ginger is just as effective as vitamin B6 in the treatment of morning sickness.
Motion Sickness Remedy
Ginger has been shown to be an effective remedy for the nausea associated with motion sickness.
Reduces Pain and Inflammation
One study showed that ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and is a powerful natural painkiller.
Heartburn Relief
Ginger has long been used as a natural heartburn remedy. It is most often taken in the form of tea for this purpose.
Cold and Flu Prevention and Treatment
Ginger has long been used as a natural treatment for colds and the flu. Many people also find ginger to be helpful in the case of stomach flus or food poisoning, which is not surprising given the positive effects ginger has upon the digestive tract.