Foods for Gemini
And the kick off to summer
by chef to the celebrities -- Sabra Ricci
Being a set of twins is not an easy task, but Geminis (May 21-June 20) handle it beautifully, especially in their dietary needs. Because they constantly need to be entertained and in a state of action, Geminis crave foods that are tasty and provocative, but most of all quick and easy. This means that most of their food is eaten while in the middle of another task -- they may be reading a book while finishing their dinner or watching an involved movie while munching on a snack. No matter what they're doing, you can be sure that they are not going to sacrifice it for a meal. They enjoy the finer foods, only in smaller, easy to eat portions. Every zodiac sign should enjoy all the Gemini foods. So why not enjoy a fast meal item with a Gemini? It is a guaranteed time of nourishment for the mind and body.
Apricots
Dating back 4000 years and originating in China, the apricot was considered a medicinal food by the Greeks. The Romans dedicated this luscious fruit to Venus, the Goddess of Love. Apricots are not only delicious, but also high in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, tryptophan, and last but not least, potassium, the Twins cell salt. Apricots are in season May through August, making them one of the summer food highlights.
Carrots
Carrots gained their popularity during the Renaissance, and have long been coveted for their medicinal value. During the 1800s, the carrot was the first vegetable to be canned in North America. Carrots are legendary for making your eyesight better, but what some may not know is that it is very beneficial in reducing the risk of cancer and emphysema. It is also a quick and delicious snack. I wonder if Bugs Bunny was a Gemini?
Chamomile
Chamomile is the most widely used medicinal plant in the world and for good reason. It has been used for centuries as a tea for soothing the stomach, to help relax the body and alleviate anxiety and insomnia. New research shows that it is beneficial in relieving a wide range of health ailments, including colds and menstrual cramps. Geminis should have a cup of this fragrant tea every day to help calm their nervous energy.
Fennel
Fennel dates back to the ancient Greeks and is closely associated with Dionysus, the Greek god of food and wine. Greek myth also states that knowledge was delivered to man by the gods at Olympus in a fennel stalk filled with coal. No wonder Geminis are so keen on this versatile vegetable -- it adds flavor and extra brain-power. It is said that within the fennel, a hint of licorice and anise can be elicited, causing a surprise with every crack of the celery-like stalk. This food is not only unique in taste and appearance, but also in its health benefits. It holds a distinctive combination of phytonutrients including rutin, anethole and Vitamin C. All of these nutrients serve as antioxidants and anti-cancer agents, making fennel a versatile addition to any meal. Any Gemini knows that this vegetable provides an interesting complement to any dish, providing a breeding ground for the creative and varied nature of the unified Twin.
Lemons
Lemons have been cultivated for over 2500 years and were brought to the Americas by Christopher Columbus in his second voyage in 1493. Not only is the lemon a Vitamin C powerhouse, but it is also nature's most important antioxidant, a traditional remedy for epilepsy, an astringent for cleaning teeth and skin, and a powerful bleaching agent. Whether drizzling on fish or a favorite salad, lemons have just the right zing for the Gemini, as well as for fellow signs of the zodiac.
Pistachios
Pistachios have a distinct and unique history. These delicious green nuts, being one of the two mentioned in the Old Testament, were considered food for the rich and royal, including the Queen of Sheba, who coveted the delicacy for herself and her court. Pistachios are high in iron, potassium and protein, making them the perfect on-the-go healthy snack for the Twin, or any of the other signs that would like a little taste of extravagance.
Tomato
Known by the Italian and French as the "apple of love," the tomato is the fruit of the vine originally native to South America. It is now considered one of America's favorite vegetables. The tomato is quite the vitamin, dynamo-packed with vitamin A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, C, E, K and many more. Lycopene is the red pigment that gives tomatoes their color and is a proven antioxidant that may lower the risk of cancer and heart disease. There is nothing quite like the sweetness of a juicy vine-ripened tomato in the summertime. Add a handful of fresh basil, cottage cheese or fresh mozzarella and you have a meal fit for a Gemini or anyone looking for the fresh taste of summer.
Watermelon
Watermelon has been known for its thirst- quenching properties for centuries in Africa, Egypt and the Mediterranean region, where water was often in short supply. Watermelon is the perfect treat on a hot summer day, and thirst isn't the only thing it can quench -- it quashes the worst inflammation that can result in conditions such as arthritis, asthma, atherosclerosis, colon cancer and diabetes. Because of watermelon's high water content, it is lower in calories than other fruits, with only 48 calories per serving. It has more vitamins per calorie than its sister melons. So enjoy plenty of this summer season's blockbuster.
About the Author
Sabra Ricci is a chef to the celebrities and a world-renowned caterer on the beautiful island of Maui, as well as an accomplished astrologer. She is renowned for her healthy, delectable menus. A graduate of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, Sabra worked in Paris for YES Catering Company and as a consultant at Grail Springs Spa in Canada. During the 2003 fashion week in New York City, Sabra was one of four chefs selected to participate in the 'Five Star Feast', a 'Chef to the Celebrities' cooking extravaganza and live demonstration hosted by Joan Lunden.