5 Immune-Boosting Vegan Recipes to Stay Healthy All Year Long
As the seasons change, our immune system tends to take a hit. Seasonal allergies, cold and flu viruses, and other illnesses can compromise our well-being. What we eat can play a significant role in strengthening our immune system. Whether you are already a vegan or just starting to explore plant-based options, here are five immune-boosting vegan recipes everyone should try.
1. Green Smoothie
Smoothies are an excellent way to fuel your body with nutrients. This green smoothie packs a punch with spinach, kale, and ginger to boost your immune system.
Ingredients
- 1 banana
- 2 cups of spinach
- 2 cups of kale
- 1-inch ginger
- 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 cup of coconut water
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients into a blender or food processor
- Blend until smooth
- Serve and enjoy!
2. Turmeric Cauliflower Soup
Turmeric is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great option when you need to fight off something.
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric
- 4 cups of vegetable broth
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 ℉
- Toss cauliflower with a tablespoon of olive oil and salt
- Bake cauliflower for 20 minutes
- Meanwhile, heat a pan and add onions and garlic
- Sauté until translucent
- Add the cumin, turmeric, and cauliflower
- Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes
- Blend with an immersion blender until smooth
- Serve and enjoy!
3. Chia Seed Pudding
Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and minerals, making it an excellent ingredient for healthy food.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup of chia seeds
- 1 cup of non-dairy milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine chia seeds, non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract in a container with a lid
- Stir or shake contents until well combined
- Refrain and let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight
- Serve with fruit, nuts, or any toppings you enjoy
- Enjoy!
4. Lentil Soup
This protein-packed lentil soup is perfect for boosting the immune system.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of lentils
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until translucent
- Add carrots, celery, lentils, thyme, salt, and black pepper, and stir
- Add canned tomatoes and vegetable broth
- Bring the pot to a boil, then turn down to a simmer
- Cook for 30 minutes until the lentils are soft and tender
- Serve and enjoy!
5. Roasted Sweet Potato and Brussel Sprouts
Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamin C and vitamin A, while Brussel sprouts are Anti-inflammatory.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1 lb Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved
- Salt and pepper
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400℉
- Cut sweet potatoes into cubes
- Mix sweet potatoes and Brussel sprouts in a bowl
- Drizzle olive oil over vegetables and mix
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over vegetables
- Stir to combine
- Pour onto a baking sheet and spread out evenly
- Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized
- Serve and enjoy!
These vegan recipes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and vitamins that can help boost your immune system. Give them a try and thank yourself for keeping your body healthy all year long.