As our country finds new ways to stay occupied during the pandemic, it’s easier to pick up a new hobby. Many individuals are constantly on the go and never have the time to relax and unwind to a home cooked meal. What people struggle to understand is that key ingredients are simple, it’s all about balance. You must have dedication to want what’s best for your loved ones and your health. Having the ability to manage time not only helps your longevity but creates organization that makes tasks a lot easier. 

It’s unfortunate that it took the entire country to be quarantined to realize how much we live our lives on “auto-control.” How many of us wake up, get ready, go to work/school, forget to pack a good meal, and do it all over again? A lot of us carry on these habits whether we want to admit it or not. In a crisis like this, now’s the time to take advantage of spending time with your family, sparking creativity, and sitting down together to enjoy a balanced meal. Of course, with the practice of washing your hands and social distancing, this could minimize the timespan of quarantine. Which means schools will be open, careers will resume, your favorite restaurant will be back in business, and so will life! 

With that being said, here is an easy recipe that boosts immunity and tastes a hundred times better than a drive-thru meal. Grilled salmon and basil only needs 

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 2 minced garlic cloves 
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 whole wild salmon fillet
• 1/3 cup plus 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil, divided
• 2 medium tomatoes, thinly sliced
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper

This recipe is the perfect amount of good carbs and fats needed to maintain your body. Only 248 calories, pescaterian friendly, and takes 20 minutes to prepare! Salmon is an oily fish packed with omega-3 and lots of protein. Incorporate this at least once every two weeks if you can. (Credit to: http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/250116/grilled-salmon-with-tomatoes-basil/ ) 

Finally, make sure you have the basic necessities to ensure you and your family are taken care of well. Keep in mind that others may not be able to afford what is left or the elderly may have difficulty shopping alone. Please stay home and be pragmatic. You are saving lives by being selfless to those who can’t survive strong illnesses. Last but not least, try your best to stay positive amidst the chaos, you can do this.