If you’re trying to avoid processed white sugar, honey is an excellent substitute sweetener. Plus, it boasts some serious health benefits. The bees know what’s up — honey is famous as a throat-soother, but in its raw form this delicious sticky syrup can also treat infections and minor injuries.

More interested in eating honey than slathering it over the skin? Honey has a strong and very sweet flavor, so just a drizzle adds plenty of flavor to any dish. Here are five recipes that highlight this awesome natural ingredient.

Honey Plum Splash via The Sweetest Occasion
This boozy beverage is basically summer in a class. Muddle lemon wedges and plums, then combine the fruity base with honey, whiskey, and lemon-lime soda (or use seltzer for a version with less sugar).Honey Plum Drink Photo: Nancy Neil / The Sweetest Occasion

Honey Dijon Broccoli Salad via The Muffin Myth
While most people wouldn’t think to put honey on salad, the sweet-tart dressing compliments the other ingredients perfectly. Lightly steam broccoli, then shred florets (stems and all) and mix them with slivered almonds, chopped parsley, apple, and a tangy honey, mustard, and vinegar dressing.

Photo: Katie / The Muffin Myth

Honey Whole-Wheat Skillet Bread vie Averie Cooks
Seriously, is there anything better than a slice of homemade bread, freshly out of the oven? Probably not. Making bread is much easier than most people think, especially when using a quick recipe like this 30-minute wonder. Mix the ingredients together and bake it in a skillet (yep, no kneading or rising).

Photo: Averie Sunshine / Averie Cooks

Honey Roasted Almonds via My Whole Food Life
Need a quick gift or a healthy snack in a pinch? These almonds are delicious and super-easy to make. Just mix honey into some raw almonds, sprinkle them with sea salt, and bake for about 25 minutes. Get creative with spices — something tells us these would be awesome with a sprinkling of cinnamon.

Photo: Melissa / My Whole Food Life

Crock Pot Sesame Chicken via Skinny Taste
It’s no surprise that around here, we really, really love speedy and hands-free slow-cooker recipes. Case in point: this healthy, super-flavorful chicken recipe that combines sweet honey, spicy Sriracha, tangy vinegar, and salty soy sauce.

Photo: Gina Homolka / Skinny Taste

Did we miss any of your favorite honey recipes? Do you have an idea for next week’s Greatist Table? Tell us in the comments below or tweet the author @SophBreene.