Strawberry Summer Salad

Strawberries are a summertime staple. Did you know that antioxidants give strawberries their red color? Antioxidants can reduce inflammation and swelling while lowering your risk of developing chronic illnesses, like Alzheimer's disease. The redder the strawberry, the more antioxidants it contains, so try adding strawberries to your summer recipes! This summer strawberry salad recipe that Juli (@paleomg) shared is a sweet strategy for incorporating more strawberries into your diet.

Ingredients:

• 5 ounces arugula
• 1 english cucumber, thinly sliced and shaved
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup basil leaves
• 1/4 cup mint leaves
• 1/2 cup crunchy chickpeas
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/4 cup crunchy mung beans
• 2 tablespoons dairy-free soft cheese
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoon honey (use maple syrup for vegan option)
• 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• pinch of black pepper

Instructions

1. Now get this. You ready?
2. Place all ingredients for the salad in a large bowl.
3. Place all the ingredients for the dressing in a jar. Cover to seal and shake well to combined.
4. Pour preferred amount of dressing over salad and toss to combined. Serve immediately. Store any leftover dressing in the fridge.
5. You did it, you superstar!

Why We Love This…

✔ Vitamin- and antioxidant-rich: Arugula, cucumber, strawberries, cherry tomatoes, basil, and mint supply vitamins A, C, K, folate, and phytonutrients that support immunity, skin, and eye health.
✔ Plant-based protein and fiber: Crunchy chickpeas, mung beans, and pine nuts provide fiber and protein for digestive health and sustained energy.
✔ Heart-healthy fats: Olive oil and pine nuts deliver monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular and brain health.
✔ Bone and calcium support: Dairy-free soft cheese adds calcium and protein for bone strength and muscle repair.
✔ Immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory: Garlic, lemon, honey, and fresh herbs provide compounds that reduce inflammation and support immune function.
✔ Gluten-free and nutrient-dense: Naturally gluten-free, packed with fiber, protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients for a balanced meal.
✔ Flavorful and satisfying: Sweet, tangy, and herbaceous flavors make this salad refreshing, colorful, and crave-worthy.

Love a seasonal salad? Then you need to check out this Fall Pasta Salad recipe!