Healing Powers of Honey 2 Author Celebrates National Pollinator Month

 By Cal Orey, M.A.

Did you know? 

In June, the United States celebrates National Pollinator Month. This observance highlights the gig of pollinators—such as our friendly honey bees who are the primary pollinators to pollinate plants. Translation: Honey bees enable the production of fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

So, why does it matter for your health and our Tahoe hive? Pollinator Month is celebrated in June to highlight the critical work of bees. Many of the crops that rely on our honey bees are packed with the antioxidants and vitamins necessary for maintaining a healthy immune system, especially important in our high-altitude environment.

Speaking of home, the other day, a grocery store worker asked, “Why don’t you include recipes in your column anymore?” I paused, considering the irony of being a food writer who used to love baking desserts. “Well,” I replied, “I’ve divorced sugar and butter. I’ve switched to a strict, heart-healthy Mediterranean diet to keep lean and well." So, here’s a treat that won’t require a crash diet or visit to a cardio doc. (Heart-healthy recipes in HONEY 2, Pre-Order...catch the past buzz with HONEY 1 (Amazon Special Deal 1.99 ebook for instant gratification!)

Mediterranean Salad with Tea Citrus Vinaigrette

* * *

2 cups fresh greens (spring mix, baby spinach)

1/4 cup raw broccoli, chopped

½ cup tomatoes, diced

¼ cup green bell pepper, chopped

¼ cup roasted sunflower seeds, shelled

2 eggs, hard boiled, sliced

1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled

Black pepper to taste

In a large bowl, toss broccoli, tomatoes, and bell pepper.

 Fold in lettuce. Top with seeds, eggs, and cheese.

 

Citrus Vinaigrette

4 citrus tea bags

1/2 cup boiling water

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon honey

1/8 cup fresh lemon juice

Place tea bags into a cup, pour boiling water over tea bags and let steep 10 minutes. Squeeze liquid out of tea bags and toss bags. Refrigerate for an hour. Combine cold tea, and honey. Then add the vinegar, lemon juice and salt. Pour oil into the ingredients. Makes 3-4 servings or 2 servings if main dish. It is perfect with a pot of green or white tea. (Adapted from The Healing Powers of Tea.)

Since it is National Iced Tea Month, don’t forget to add a glass of your favorite black, green or herbal to chill during warmer days ahead.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws, the new, revised revolutionary 2nd edition of The Healing Powers of Honey (pre-order for August 2026), and The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, 3^rd edition in progress.  She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is www.calorey.com