Hydrating Peach Lover Salad
Now that summer has arrived it’s nice to try hydrating salads. Eating more greens and raw foods is a wonderful way to improve energy and vitality. Raw foods contain nutrients and enzymes that keep our cells youthful!
Enzymes are proteins that regulate chemical reactions in the body. They help to break down existing materials or create new ones. They are needed for immune function, proper digestion, metabolism, hormone production, and so many other things related to your health and beauty. They can literally extend your health span! Our body produces enzymes (digestive organs and gut bacteria) but we can also get them from the foods we eat but they are typically only “alive” and bioavailable in raw, uncooked foods. Of course, this does not mean that we should only eat raw foods since certain nutrients are more available after cooking like lycopene in tomatoes. Therefore, variety is key!
During hot summer months it is important to hydrate the body well to keep your skin glowing and eyes bright. Unfortunately, modern diets tend to be dehydrating, and as a result, our bodies are drying out. The older we get, the drier we become. A human baby is 75% water, adult men about 60% and women 55%, and elderly people only about 50%! It’s important to “eat your water” too instead of only drinking plain water. Eating hydrating, nutrient-rich foods will help to nourish the cells and organs fully, and keeps you hydrated for longer and deeper.
Peaches
Peaches help in maintaining smooth skin, healthy bones and teeth. They are high in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. They can also help to support digestion and prevent constipation because they contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. Always choose fresh and ripe fruits because they are higher in nutrients and antioxidants. Fruits that are not ripe can lead to constipation and stomach pain.
Coconut Aminos
I like to use coconut aminos in my dressings to bring sweetness. It’s free of both soy and gluten and 100% vegan. The most simple dressing is just to combine coconut aminos with extra virgin olive oil, lemon or lime juice, and apple cider vinegar.
Cashew “Cheese”
When eating in moderation raw nuts can be a great source of plant-based protein and healthy fats. Cashew spread type of cheese is not too difficult to make at home with a food-processor. Because of my laziness I bought organic white mold cashew “cheese” (vegan) from a local supermarket. Even though cashews are often referred to as cashew nuts they are actually seeds. They are a good source of protein and most of the fats they provide are stable monounsaturated fats (MUFAs). If you have a tree nut allergy, it’s better to replace cashews with something else. Cashews provide magnesium and copper which strengthen both bones and joints. Magnesium is an essential micronutrient for many biochemical reactions in the body such as protein formation, gene maintenance, nervous system regulation, and healthy hormones. Copper supports collagen formation. Collagen is a protein needed for shiny hair and elastic skin.
For The Peach Lover Salad
Ripe peaches
½ cucumber
Greens
⅓ cup microgreens or sprouts
Basil leaves
Plant-based “cheese”
For The Dressing
1 teaspoon coconut aminos
1 tablespoon raw apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (optional)
Himalayan sea salt to taste (optional)
Directions:
1. Wash all produce well.
2. Prepare all fruit, vegetables, and greens: chop, grate and shred as you like.
3. Make the dressing: mix all ingredients together in a small cup and add water to dilute. You can also use a dressing of your choice.
4. Place cucumber, greens, and basil leaves on a plate and top with chunks of peaches and a few spoonfuls or chunks of your favourite
plant-based “cheese” or your favourite source of protein.
Enjoy with gratitude, reflection, and peace.
x