Southwestern Chopped Salad with Cilantro Dressing Salad Ingredients: Large head of romaine lettuce 15 oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed 1 large orange bell pepper 1 pint cherry tomatoes 2 cups corn 5 green onions Directions: Finely chop romaine, bell pepper, tomatoes, and green onions. Place all ingredients in a large bowl and mix to combine. Toss with desired dressing. Creamy Cilantro-Lime Dressing: 1 cup loosely packed cilantro, stems removed and chopped ½ of an avocado or ½ cup Greek yogurt 2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice (about ½ a lime) 1-2 cloves of garlic ¼ cup olive oil 1½ tsp. white vinegar 1/8 tsp. salt Directions: Puree all of the ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Relieve the Itch! The hot days and warm evenings of summertime mean not only more time spent outside, but also more chances of getting bitten by those pesky mosquitos that thrive in the warmth. The following are all natural remedies to relieve the itch and avoid the possible infections that can come from scratching what itches. Cold tea bags – a cold wet tea bag placed on the bite will reduce the itch and redness. Onion – place a slice of onion on the affected area for a few minutes to reduce swelling Toothpaste – Dab a small amount of toothpaste on the bite for quick relief. Aspirin – Aspirin has anti-inflammatory properties and contains salicylic acid that helps reduce redness, sting and itching. Crush the tablet in an ounce of water and swab on the area. Witch Hazel or Alcohol – A small amount dabbed on the site will calm inflamed skin and reduce itchiness. Lavender essential oil – Dabbing a small amount on the affected area can relieve itching quickly. Salt – Simply moisten the bitten area then rub table salt on it to get itch relief. Basil – Crush fresh basil and apply the paste on the bite. Leave on for a few minutes and then rinse. Baking Soda – Make a thick paste with water and apply to the bites for 10 minute. Baking soda contains alkaline compound which will neutralize the pH of skin which can help ease inflammation and calm the irritation. Milk – For a soothing compress, soak a wash cloth in warm milk and apply to the skin. Aloe – Rub a small amount of aloe vera gel and let it dry before rinsing off to relieve itching. Apple Cider Vinegar – Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and place it on the bite and leave it there for 5-10 minutes to stop the pain and itch. Banana Peel – Rub the inside of a banana peel on the bit to reduce inflammation and itch. Honey –Honey is full of anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties which will soothe the bite. Lemon or Lime Juice – These juices contain anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties and can help to prevent infection and reduce itchiness. Tea Tree Oil – The natural anti-inflammatory properties of this oil will help reduce swelling and prevent infection. Ice – To reduce swelling and numb the itch away, use an ice pack. Or just rub an ice cube over the bite to soothe the itch. For this and other all-natural remedies go to www.realbeautyspot.com