Beets: a controversial topic, we know! We love them, but we know that’s not always the popular opinion!
When we talk about beets, try to think outside the box and disregard the canned beets that you grew up with. Fresh beets are so much better! While we love their flavor, we like their health benefits even more!
Beets are considered to be a heart-healthy food. They boast the ability to enhance blood flow, improve the health of arteries, and reduce LDL cholesterol. Another way they offer health benefits: their color! Beets get their color from betalains, a type of plant pigment that is loaded with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. *All colors offer benefits – this is why we say “eat the rainbow”!* Thanks to these compounds, we can protect our cells from damage, decrease inflammation, and lower our risk for heart disease and cancer.
Below is a delicious recipe to try!
Beet and Arugula Salad
Ingredients
- 6 cups of arugula 5 ounces
- 6 small COOKED beets 9 ounces, halved and sliced (if you don’t want to cook your own, find organic steamed beets such as Love Beets in the produce section!)
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
- 4 ounces goat cheese divided
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic crushed
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine arugula, beets, walnuts, cranberries and goat cheese.
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In a small spouted cup or mason jar, combine extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, garlic, salt and pepper. Whisk to combine.
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Drizzle dressing over the salad and gently toss together. Adjust seasonings, serve and enjoy!
Recipe from Clean and Delicious
