Blueberry Vinaigrette

If someone ever asked me to define my cooking style, the simplest answer would be this: I aim to add as many nutrients as I can into every dish I make. Yes, every recipe I create is inspired by somewhere or someone—whether it's a tradition, a culture, or a craving—but my signature twist is always this: more nourishment. That’s how I cook, how I eat, and how I care.

And this blueberry vinaigrette? It’s exactly that philosophy on a plate. Most people think of vinaigrette as a side character—something you quickly whisk together and drizzle over greens. But this blueberry vinaigrette takes it a step further. It’s vibrant, bold, nutrient-dense, and packed with flavor and function.

RECIPE

  • 1/2 cup of Fresh blueberries (hello, antioxidants)

  • 1/4 cup of organic balsamic vinegar

  • 1/4 cup of High-quality olive oil, organic, cold pressed

  • a pinch of Sea salt & cracked black pepper

  • Blend, blend, blend!

That’s it. Yet when blended, it transforms into this beautiful, deep purple dressing that tastes as good as it looks—and offers a cascade of benefits, especially for women’s health and hormones.

Why Blueberries for Women? Blueberries are a small fruit with a big impact—especially for female physiology. They’re rich in:

  • Anthocyanins: Powerful antioxidants that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can disrupt hormone function.

  • Vitamin C: Vital for adrenal health and the production of progesterone.

  • Fiber: Supports healthy digestion and regular elimination, which is essential for clearing excess estrogen.

  • Polyphenols: These plant compounds help modulate blood sugar and protect against insulin resistance, a key factor in hormone imbalance, PCOS, and energy crashes.

In short: blueberries aren’t just sweet—they’re smart.

Olive Oil & Balsamic: More Than Just a Base

  • Extra virgin olive oil is one of the healthiest fats for women. It’s rich in oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that supports cell membrane health, brain function, and hormone production. Plus, olive oil is anti-inflammatory and helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (like A, D, E, and K).

  • Balsamic vinegar, beyond adding tang and depth, contains compounds that can support blood sugar regulation and enhance digestion.

So when you blend all of these together, you’re not just making a dressing—you’re making a therapeutic, hormone-supportive sauce that can elevate any meal.

How to Use It? This blueberry vinaigrette is incredibly versatile. Some ideas:

  • Drizzle over mixed greens with roasted beets, walnuts, and goat cheese (or a dairy-free alternative)

  • Use as a marinade for grilled chicken or salmon

  • Toss with shredded red cabbage, carrot, and herbs for a slaw that supports estrogen detox

  • Add to a rainbow bowl with grilled meat, rice, avocado, roasted veggies, and greens

  • Pair with berries and arugula for a sweet-bitter salad that supports liver health

Food is Information - When we eat, we’re not just feeding hunger—we’re feeding hormones, mitochondria, neurotransmitters, and even our microbiome. Every ingredient sends a signal to the body. So I always ask: What signal am I sending? I hope that the answer is HEALING and LOVE.

As usual, these are my thoughts and ideas, not medical advice. You are encouraged to create your own recipes or search for some suited to your needs. I am just sharing my recipes, hoping that I can inspire some of you to make healthier food choices.

Please remember that we all have different nutritional needs and that food affects us differently. If you are not sure which foods are best for you, reach out for a free phone consultation. 

In good health,

Ioana

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