Most people require braces to obtain perfectly straight teeth. Unfortunately, there is not a pill to make the teeth straighten overnight. People often need specific orthodontic care to get their best smile and bite.
However, sometimes wearing braces can affect the way you eat. Eating might feel difficult when you first get braces. It’s important to be aware of the kind of food you are eating, not just for your health but also because certain foods can also dislodge the brackets. Don’t worry! The summer doesn’t have to be lacking in fun and tasty treats for those who are trying to get a great smile.
That’s why we created a list of great recipes that are perfect for people who are wearing braces.
Peppermint Lemonade
Summer is the perfect time for lemonade. If you have been out in the sun playing sports or just enjoying the beautiful weather, lemonade is the perfect way to cool off and feel refreshed. For a refreshing lemonade, try this recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 fresh lemon
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 ¼ cups white sugar
- 1 (12 ounces) can frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed
Directions
The first step to refreshment with this delicious lemonade recipe is to pour the lemonade concentrate into a cooler or a pitcher. Use enough water for a gallon of lemonade. Grade the lemon to create some zest and add it into the pitcher. Then simply squeeze the lemon juice into the pitcher or cooler. Once you’re done with that, crush the mint leaves by using a wooden spoon or muddler and add it to the sugar. Then add the sugar and crushed mint into the pitcher to cool for several hours. Once it has been chilled, strain the leaves and zest prior to serving.
You can garnish this refreshment with a sprig of mint over ice for the perfect summer recipe.
Pasta Fredda
Pasta Fredda is perfect for vegetable lovers and pasta lovers alike. With olives, basil, and tomatoes, you’ll be getting a great dose of nutrition alongside a tasty meal.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 ounces) package farfalle (bow tie) pasta
- 7 ounces bocconcini (small balls of fresh mozzarella cheese)
- 20 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ½ teaspoon fresh oregano leaves
- 6 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¾ cup black olives
Directions
Bring a large pot to a boil after adding salt. Cook the pasta at a boil while occasionally stirring to keep it from sticking to the pot. Cook the pasta until it is al dente, after about twelve minutes in the boiling water. Drain it and let it cool to room temperature.
Combine the basil, oregano, olives, bocconcini, tomatoes, and olive oil in a large bowl and toss it to allow the herbs to evenly coat the vegetables. Add the pasta and toss the entire bowl. Enjoy!
Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken enchiladas are a perfect way to spice up your routine over the summer, especially for those who are wearing braces.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups cubed cooked chicken breast meat
- 6 (12 inch) flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chiles
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup milk
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a baking sheet lightly. While the oven is warming, use a medium saucepan, with the added butter, over medium heat to saute the onion until it is tender. Add the garlic powder and stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Add the green chiles. Mix well and keep ¾ of the sauce for the side. Use the remaining sauce to add to the chicken and cheddar cheese.
Fill the flour tortillas with the mixture of chicken and roll them up. Spoon the sauce over the tortillas and top with the remaining half cup of cheese. Bake in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes.