Vegan Greek Salad
Is there anything better that a greek salad with quality tomatoes? I think not!
Treated myself to some organic heirloom tomatoes and whipped this up. Feel free to have it as a side dish or add lentils/beans/quinoa to make it heartier and higher in protein. When we eat carbs with protein and fat, our blood sugar levels stay more balanced. This helps are overall hormone levels, including estrogen and progesterone. I opt for organic produce as pesticides can act as zenoestrogens, mimicking estrogen and increasing levels in the body. This leads to symptoms and imbalances in the body, like PMS or mood changes.
Why You Should Make This
tomatoes: high in Vitamin C, which supports immunity and also helps with iron absorption (from the bean or grain). It’s also high in lycopene and this carotenoid supports healthy skin, heart health and even reduced cancer risk.
greens: these are a daily goal, especially dark leafy greens rich in folate and chlorophyll. Bitter greens are extra supportive of the liver and digestion.
cucumber: run warm? this high water juicy fruit (seeds inside!) is very cooling to all my pitta friends. Search my dosha ayurveda blog post if you’re not familiar with this term.
fresh herbs: so underrated. Your local grocery store herbs are immunity boosters, good for heavy metals, fresh breath, digestion, anti-viral… choose a different one each week!
Ingredients
organic heirloom tomatoes, keep on your counter
cucumber
vegan herb cheese or homemade tofu feta
oven roasted chickpeas
hummus dollop
lots of fresh basil
tons of cracked pepper
Cut and mix that all up!
Dressing:
I love detoxinista’s recipe
1/3 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons raw apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 small garlic cloves , minced
1/2 teaspoon whole seed mustard (or Dijon)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
I hope this inspires you to get your veggies in. The more fibre we eat, the more polyphenols our body gets.
Polyphenols: protect the body's tissues against oxidative stress and associated pathologies such as cancers, coronary heart disease and inflammation. Just one reason why we should aim to get 30 plants a week into your diet.
Let me know if you get 30 plants in this week!!
Follow me on instagram for more hormone and gut health tips @jordanbruce.RHN