This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Food Focus: Raw and Cooling Salads

Why is it that in the summer we naturally crave more fresh and raw foods?


Why is it that in the summer we naturally crave more fresh and raw foods? These foods have a cooling effect on the body. The lightness and high water, fiber and vitamin content work together to act as our internal air conditioning during these warm months. At this time of year we also need less dense, high-energy food because we get so much energy from being outside in the fresh air and sunshine.

 

There is no better season than summer to have fun creating your own fresh, tasty, creative salad combinations. By simply tossing together several of your favorite raw veggies, naked or with a light dressing, you have a perfect meal for a hot summer’s day.  

Find out what's happening in Dexterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

 

  • Try your favorite leafy lettuce with various sliced, diced or grated veggies. The possible combinations are endless.
  • Fresh herbs are a wonderful option to mix in, as they are packed full of flavor.
  • Experiment with adding diverse forms of protein to your salads, such as nuts, seeds, beans, tofu, fish or poultry.
  • Pick up a light and healthy dressing at your local health food store, or mix up something easy, like lemon juice, black pepper and olive oil.

 

Find out what's happening in Dexterwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

This is a great opportunity to try a new vegetable from your market. What are some creative flavors you’ve never tried before? Fennel and mint? Daikon radish and arugula? Summer squash with watercress? Whatever you choose, have fun with your food and stay cool. Happy summer!

 

Recipes of the Month:

 

Bok Choy Apple Slaw

Prep time: 7 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

 

Ingredients:

6 stalks bok choy (about 1/2 head), thinly sliced

1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

1 granny smith apple, sliced

1/2 cup toasted sunflower seeds

 

Dressing:

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon dijon mustard

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)

1/4 cup olive oil

2 teaspoons honey or brown rice syrup

salt and black pepper to taste

 

Directions:

1. First make the dressing by combining all the ingredients and whisking well.

2. Chop all the salad ingredients, leaving the apples until last. Mix in a salad bowl. 

3. Toss salad with half the dressing. Add additional dressing if desired.

4. Eat immediately, or chill for up to one hour and then add the apples just before eating.

 For a free health coaching consultation, health tips, and recipes visit my website, www.yourwholewellness.com

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?