Tag: leafy green

All About Arugula

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Arugula is one of my favorite foods. Not like one of my favorite greens, but actually one of my favorite foods. Kale, spinach, romaine – those are all good greens, but to make them truly enjoyable, you need a little somethin’ somethin’ to dress it up. Arugula packs SO much flavor, it really holds it own…on its own. I’m not lying when I say that I can snack on plain arugula like people snack on chips or popcorn. That may sound extreme, but it’s true, I wouldn’t lie to you! No, I don’t serve arugula with salsa or hummus, but my body does crave arugula like others may crave potato chips. Point being that you learn to love healthy foods the more you incorporate them into your daily life. Ok, back to the arugula…

photo 1When I make an arugula salad, (which is quite often) it’s not about what I can load it up with, it’s really about enjoying the fresh strong flavor of the curly little leaves. Plus, arugula packs as much nutritional value as it does taste. It’s got anti-cancer phytochemicals, folic acid and Vitamins A, C and K, which aids bone and brain health! This hydrating veggie is packed with iron and best part is that it’s available year round!

Chances are, if I’m making a side salad, it most likely has arugula in it. Today, lunch was a bed of arugula with butter beans and avocado. Simple yet delish.

photo 3Some other great arugula salad add-ons are: beets, tomatoes, nuts, figs, parmesan, watermelon, pears, and so much more. Get creative! Also remember, arugula is not just for salads. It goes great in omelet, a top a sandwich, burger, or pizza, or add it to any pasta dish for a peppery kick.

One Healthy Breakdown: I’m ALL about Arugula.

Can’t Go Wrong With a Kale Salad

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What kind of nutritionist would I be without a post ALL about kale?!

photo 1Kale gets a lot of buzz. It’s a superfood you should be eating regularly. Kale is one of the most nutrient-dense greens. High in beta carotene, Vitamin K, and Vitamin C, kale is also a good source of calcium for healthy bones and full of antioxidants to fight inflammation and disease. This leafy green lowers cholesterol and cleanses the digestive system. The texture of kale makes it pretty versatile. You can bake it into chips, steam or saute as a side dish, or make a kale salad. Best part about a kale salad (other than the taste) is that it can be eaten immediately or days later, as it won’t wilt or get soggy like other greens.

Kale Easiest Superfood Salad Ever:

  • Chop one bunch of kale into small pieces (cut stems off where leaves start)
  • Cut one or two lemons into wedges and squeeze juice over kale
  • Drizzle olive oil over kale and sprinkle with salt and pepper
  • Massage the dressed kale
  • This salad is great as is, but feel free to add your favorite mix-ins! Here, I used carrots, avocado, scallions, and some toasted nuts. Also try his yummy crunchy salad topper!

One Healthy Breakdown: kale it up!