I recently returned from a 9-day meditation retreat at Insight Meditation Society in Barre, MA. It was a wonderful opportunity to tune in, slow down, observe the nature of the mind, and cultivate mindfulness and compassion. Each day involved a schedule of alternating periods of walking and sitting mediation, mediation instruction, qigong, a dharma talk, chores, and three incredible vegetarian meals a day.

Meal times were some of my favorite moments of the day. Not only was every meal delicious, fresh and varied, it was also such a delight to have the time and awareness to eat slowly and mindfully. Taking my time with each bite, chewing thoroughly, and noticing how the food delighted my taste buds and mind made each meal incredibly satisfying and nourishing.

At lunch time there was always a salad bar with all kinds of delectable fixings like sprouted legumes, sauerkraut or kimchi, toasted seeds and shredded carrots. Everyday I would top my salad with my favorite dressing made by the IMS kitchen called Hollyhock dressing. I love to bring my experiences of retreat and travel home with recipes, so at the end of the retreat I was sure to copy down the recipe for the dressing. When I returned home from the retreat I made a big jar of dressing. It took me less time than it would take to find a bottle of dressing in a supermarket, and was infinitely more satisfying than store-bought dressing. Hollyhock dressing is also great for vegetarians and vegans because it contains B-vitamin rich nutritional yeast. Now, every time I use the dressing I remember to slow down, be present, and breathe.

 Hollyhock Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1 part apple cider vinegar
• 1 part tamari
• 1 part water
• 2 part nutritional yeast
• 3 parts olive oil

 Instructions:

Combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth. Serve over salads, steamed veggies or tofu.

Stay tuned for more quick and simple dressings for everyday meals.

By Chloe Bolton