Essential oils aren't just for the spa and diffusers anymore! Certain oils can be incredibly useful in the kitchen. This weeks blog includes tips and tricks for cooking with essential oils… 

Essential oils are the concentrated essences of the natural oils found in plants. When processed in a particular way, they are safe to use in cooking, much like you may use vanilla or almond extract.  

Before I go any further, it’s crucial that I mention that not all essential oils are created equally. Many oils sold for aromatherapy or even bath and body use are not suitable to consume. Before you even think of adding a drop to any recipe, be sure that the oils are food safe! 

Essential oils are a super handy substitute if you don’t have certain ingredients on hand. If you see that a recipe calls for lemon zest and you’re fresh out of citrus at home, a few drops of lemon oil can easily take its place. Similarly oregano, thyme, and basil oils can be used...

Maybe it's because the dog days of summer are truly upon us and it's just too darn hot to even look at the kitchen, let alone actually go and cook in it. 

No thank you.

So lately, I've been eating SO. MANY. SALADS. And I thought it would be the perfect time to share some of my favorite dressing and marinade recipes.

Basic Vinaigrette

• 2/3 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup champagne or wine vinegar
• 2-3 teaspoons sugar or 1-2 drops stevia, to taste
• 1 teaspoon shallots or white onion, finely grated
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1-2 drops wild orange, grapefruit, or invigorating blend essential oils. 

Shake ingredients to mix well, and enjoy.

Creamy Cilantro Dressing

• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 package dry ranch buttermilk, dressing mix
• 2 drops cilantro essential oil
• 6 stalks green onions, sliced
• 4 golden pepperoncini peppers
• 1 drop lime essential oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar

Combine all ingredients in blender and refrigerate. Serve on...