Ok, let’s face it almost everywhere you go right now, at least in the United States, it’s hot. August is typically one of the hottest months of the year and this year is no different. So, we thought it might be a great idea to offer some unique healthy summer salads, that the team particularly loves!
Each salad has been tried and tested and is a winner according to our health coaches. Additionally, we’ve included the most obvious health benefits of each. This way, you can feel confident that the food you eat is in alignment with creating overall wellness. So, let’s get cooking with all the details!
Watermelon Summer Salad:
I think one of the best things about summer salads are ingredients you would not typically expect…like watermelon and mint. What says summertime like fruit paired with cucumbers? This recipe from Delish is sweet and savory and can be used as a main course (for lunch) or as a side (for dinner) paired with a lean cut of meat or fish.
The health benefits of the main ingredients include:
● Watermelon – Watermelon has a high water content. This means you will stay hydrated and feel full. Additionally, watermelon is a low-calorie fruit high in nutrients like carotenoids and vitamin C.
● Cucumber – Cucumbers are low in calories but high in water as well. They also contain several key vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin K, magnesium and potassium. Eating cucumbers with the peel provides the maximum amount of nutrients.
● Mint – Mint is the name for over a dozen plant species, including peppermint and spearmint. These plants are particularly known for the cooling sensation they impart. Not typically consumed in large quantities, mint contains a fair amount of nutrients and is an especially good source of vitamin A and antioxidants.
Broccoli Salad:
This one definitely tastes better than it looks and will be a sure hit at your next gathering with family or friends! You can find many different versions of this salad online, choose the one that works best for you and your family. Also, feel free to substitute higher calorie or higher fat content, like creamy dressings for healthier options.
The main staples are typically broccoli, of course, cranberries, chopped pecans and red onion. The dressing is typically a light mayo – have fun with this recipe.
The health benefits of the main ingredients include:
● Broccoli – Eating raw broccoli provides for the maximum amount of nutrients. It is a rich source of multiple vitamins, minerals and fiber. Broccoli contains multiple potent antioxidants that support healthy cells and tissues throughout your body.
● Cranberries – Like other berries, cranberries are antioxidant powerhouses. In fact, when it comes to fruit, they rank just under blueberries in antioxidant potency. Cranberries also provide anti-inflammatory compounds. Research shows that people who consume cranberries have lower levels of C-reactive protein, a blood marker of inflammation, which is a known trigger of premature aging, chronic illness, and cognitive decline.
● Red Onion - Red onions are full of sulfur compounds that protect the body from ulcers and various cancers. They can also fight bacteria in the urinary tract. Antioxidants in onions have also shown to provide protection against cancer, heart disease and allergies.
Strawberry-Spinach Summer Salad:
This next one is the epitome of summertime and delicious. What says refreshing like strawberries? Your family and guests will go gaga over this one, we sure did! This recipe is packed with fresh ingredients to keep it bright, flavorful, healthy and fun to eat.
The health benefits of the main ingredients include:
● Strawberries – Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, manganese, folate and potassium. Strawberries contain high amounts of beneficial plant compounds and antioxidants. The health benefits include reduced cholesterol, blood pressure, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
● Spinach - Spinach is a superfood. It is loaded with tons of nutrients in a low-calorie package. Dark, leafy greens like spinach are important for skin, hair, and bone health. They also provide protein, iron, vitamins, and minerals.
● Avocado – Avocado is a green, pear-shaped fruit often called an “alligator pear.” It is loaded with healthy fats, fiber and various key nutrients. Avocados tend to be rich in fiber – about 7% by weight, which is very high compared to most other foods. Fiber has important benefits for weight loss and metabolic health.
Black Bean Salad:
This Southwestern black bean salad is so full of flavor your taste buds will love it! It’s enough to feed a crowd, with plenty of leftovers. Serve as a fantastic summer side dish or appetizer served with organic tortilla chips. It’s best when you use sweet fresh roasted corn, but you can make it even when corn is not in season using frozen, thawed corn will work as well.
The health benefits of the main ingredients include:
● Black Beans - Black beans are a staple food for many diverse cultural backgrounds. They are high in protein and fiber with a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that you need.
● Corn - Corn, similar to many grains, legumes, and vegetables, contains dietary fiber. Corn is higher in protein than many other vegetables, making it a good choice for vegetarians and vegans, or for people hoping to eat more protein from non-animal sources.
● Tomatoes - Tomatoes are the major dietary source of the antioxidant lycopene, which has been linked to many health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. Tomatoes are a good source of several key vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, vitamin K and folate.
Remember, the best ingredient of all is to cook with love and JOY in your heart!
Would you like help incorporating more healthy foods into your diet? We specialize in health and not a diet of deprivation. Click the 'Contact' button in the top right corner or simply send us an email to info@joyvial.com to schedule your free discovery session.
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