One would think that the first 'Off The Counter' featured recipe from our [almost] done kitchen would be a bit more exciting than a broth. However, after several non-welcomed colds during its renovation, I thought that a meal with some real healing properties would be apropos. I first tasted Golden Door's Potassium Broth while receiving a massage at The Boulders years ago (in the pre-kids era). It was SO good that I held onto the recipe card ever since. I'm preparing it now hoping it will speed up the healing process to rid myself of this tenacious cold. The broth is meant to replenish minerals lost after a strenuous workout, but I suspect this vegetable packed liquid can also cure what ails me. With regular sips of the broth and a feeling of normality returning to our house, we'll all be feeling better soon. Ingredients and instructions below:

Ingredients:

46 oz tomato based vegetable juice, 2 cups of water, 3 cups of vegetable trimmings (such as celery tops, mushrooms, zucchinis, onions, bell peppers, parsley stems and carrots), 1 teaspoon chili pepper flakes (optional), 1 teaspoon dried or (1 tablespoon fresh) basil.

Instructions:

Combine tomato based juice water, vegetable trimmings, chili pepper flakes and basil. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for about 40 minutes. Strain, pressing to extract the liquid and discard the solids. Serve broth either hot or cold.

Do you have any go-to recipes when you're under the weather? If so, do share them with us!