There is a timeless sense of security in seeing a row of glass jars tucked away in a cupboard, each one a small investment in future well-being. Combining lemon, extra virgin olive oil, and raw honey is a practice rooted in the wisdom of the traditional kitchen apothecary. This simple trio creates a versatile, shelf-stable infusion that captures the bright essence of summer and stores it for whenever you need a boost of vitality or a touch of culinary inspiration.
A Harmony of Natural Ingredients
In folk medicine and traditional cooking, these three staples are often used together to support the body’s natural balance.
Lemon: Cherished for its refreshing properties and its role as a natural cleanser in many “grandfather recipes.”
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A pillar of a clean, plant-based lifestyle, providing healthy fats that help the body absorb the goodness of other ingredients.
Raw Honey: A natural, golden sweetener that acts as a gentle preservative, keeping the lemons fresh while adding its own soothing qualities.
A Wholesome Recipe: Infused Lemon & Honey Pantry Jar
This preparation is a wonderful way to ensure you always have a bright, nourishing dressing or tonic on hand.
Ingredients:
2 Large organic lemons (thinly sliced and seeds removed)
1/2 cup Raw honey
1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil
Optional: A small sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme
Directions:
Layer: In a clean, dry glass Mason jar, begin by layering a few slices of lemon.
Drizzle: Pour a small amount of honey and olive oil over the slices.
Repeat: Continue layering the lemon, honey, and oil until the jar is full and all slices are completely submerged.
Seal: Close the jar tightly. You can store this in the refrigerator for several weeks.
Enjoy:
As a Tonic: Stir a spoonful of the infused oil and honey into warm water for a soothing morning drink.
As a Dressing: Drizzle the mixture directly over steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
Support for Your Body
In the wisdom of traditional folk medicine, this mixture is cherished for several reasons:
Digestive Comfort: Taking a spoonful in the morning is a long-standing tradition to help “wake up” the digestive system and encourage a smooth, natural rhythm for the day.
Soothing the Throat: The honey and oil create a protective coating, which can be incredibly comforting if you have a dry throat or a ticklish cough.
Sustained Energy: The healthy fats in olive oil combined with the natural sugars in honey provide a slow, steady release of energy without the “crash” of processed sugars.
Skin and Vitality: Traditionally, these ingredients are believed to support a clear complexion and bright eyes, as they are rich in the natural antioxidants your body loves.
