This fresh, zesty salad is full of produce I love, from refreshing cucumber to the peppery bite of radishes and arugula. It’s the perfect side for all your summertime barbecues!
However, what really sets this salad apart is the nuts, seeds, and toasty macadamia nut dressing. While the misguided nutrition experts of the ’80s preached a fat-free diet as the way to shed pounds, they had it dead wrong. In fact, now we know that your body requires healthy fats in your diet in order to burn your own fat reserves! The fastest way to ensure you maintain that winter weight is to eat low-fat…
The key word here is “healthy” fats – not all fats are created equal, and once-trendy vegetable and canola oils carry high levels of omega-6 fatty acids. While your body needs some omega-6s, too many can result in chronic inflammation, elevated harmful cholesterol, and an increased risk of coronary disease.
Instead of eating oils heavy in omega-6s, your menu choices should focus on omega-3 fatty acids. They’re naturally anti-inflammatory, meaning they can help with everything from brain health to lowering your risk of a heart attack. (To find out more and get the hard science, check out this article: What Are Omega-3s and Why Do You Need Them?)
And guess what has plenty of superfood omega 3s? The nuts, seeds, and dressing on this fantastic salad! One more reason to take advantage of your local farmer’s market and put together this stunning side. Or add a cup of steamed quinoa and top it with grilled chicken breast to turn it into a main dish that’s the star of the show.
Want even more yummy options for your next backyard BBQ? Try adding succulent BBQ Glazed Chicken and juicy Tex-Mex Burgers with Avocado Salsa to this vibrant Cucumber Radish Salad. Then finish off your feast with fruity Blueberry Sorbet.
Cucumber and Radish Salad with Arugula, Nuts, and Seeds
July 24, 2016
This salad is light and refreshing with a satisfying crunch. It can easily be made ahead – just store the dressing separately.
Virgin Diet compliant: Cycles 1, 2, and 3
Sugar Impact Diet compliant: Cycles 1, 2, and 3
- Prep: 15 mins
- Yields: Makes 2 main dish servings or 4 sides
Directions
1Combine the cucumbers, radishes, arugula, onion, walnuts, pecans, sesame seeds, and chia seeds in a bowl.
2Add the dressing and toss well to coat.
3Divide between two plates and serve, sprinkled with fresh dill if desired.
This recipe is part of the Backyard BBQ menu, with BBQ Glazed Chicken, Tex-Mex Burgers with Avocado Salsa, Cucumber & Radish Salad, and Blueberry Sorbet. Check out the Backyard BBQ Menu and Guide for links to all the recipes, plus more handy tips and activities for the best backyard BBQ ever!
Originally published in The Virgin Diet Cookbook, Grand Central Life & Style, 2014.
For more healthy, tasty recipes go to jjvirgin.com/recipes.
Nutrition Facts
Toasted Macadamia Nut Dressing
July 24, 2016
Macadamia nuts have a buttery taste and are a rich source of heart-healthy energy. Keep this dressing in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Virgin Diet compliant: Cycles 1, 2, and 3
Sugar Impact Diet compliant: Cycles 1, 2, and 3
- Prep: 5 mins
- Cook: 5 mins
- Yields: 1/2 cup
Directions
1Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
2Add the macadamia nuts and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted, 4 to 5 minutes.
3Transfer to a bowl and let cool.
4Coarsely chop the nuts.
5Combine the remaining oil, the vinegar, mustard, monk fruit extract, salt, and pepper in another bowl.
6Stir in the cooled nuts and any oil that accumulated at the bottom of the bowl.
This recipe is part of the Backyard BBQ menu, with BBQ Glazed Chicken, Tex-Mex Burgers with Avocado Salsa, Cucumber & Radish Salad, and Blueberry Sorbet. Check out the Backyard BBQ Menu and Guide for links to all the recipes, plus more handy tips and activities for the best backyard BBQ ever!
Originally published in The Virgin Diet Cookbook, Grand Central Life & Style, 2014.
For more healthy, tasty recipes go to jjvirgin.com/recipes.
Nutrition Facts
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