Hello Everyone
I’m delivering on my promise for a recipe with Rosemary that doesn’t include chicken, LEMON ROSEMARY SHORTBREAD. But before dessert, a few quick notes on Rosemary
Rosemary is an herb that resembles pine needles and is actually an evergreen shrub in warm climates. My Aunt in California has 3 huge rosemary bushes growing happily along the sidewalk going in to her back yard. They are used as a hedge. I am from Illinois. Rosemary is in no way a perennial here, let alone an evergreen bush. I was just floored when I saw 3 large rosemary bushes being used as a hedge. She had no idea that her hedge was rosemary and that she could cook with it. She also has a lemon tree in her back yard. My Auntie does not cook. There will be no Rosemary Lemon Shortbread Cookies being made with her fresh Rosemary and Lemons. If this were a text I’d insert the FacePalm emoji here.
Rosemary smells fantastic. Rub your hands along the bushes, or pinch the leaves and run your fingers up the stem. Now smell them. Yep. That’s what I’m talking about. Aromatherapy at your finger tips.
Rosemary is also an anti-inflammatory which is why when you have a cold your mom brings you chicken soup with rosemary (or Dad, or significant other or anyone who wants you to stop coughing and get back to work). Herbalists believe it’s anti-inflammatory properties can relieve arthritis, asthma, and increase blood flow to your brain (and maybe helping you remember where you left your keys?).
I have no idea how much you’d actually have to consume to reap the benefits, but with all it’s beneficial properties, it certainly is worth adding it your meals and your desserts. It certainly makes sense that Rosemary has been a part of medicinal gardens for centuries. If you’re in a warmer climate, like my Aunt, plant it outside. If you’re in a colder climate, like me here in Oak Lawn, IL, plant it in a pot that you can bring in the house for the winter.
This time of year here in Oak Lawn (just outside of Chicago) is always grey. Plus we’ve had no snow, which seems to make the grey last longer. So, brighten up your space with Lemon Rosemary Shortbread Cookies. The scent of the rosemary and the lemon while you are preparing the cookies will provide aromatherapy and the cookies are delicious. Check out the recipe for this treat in the charmed eats page. Just click on the tab at the top.