Lunch: Balsamic, Beet, and Berry Salad Recipe | MyRecipes

Recipe by Sidney Fry, MS, RD TIP: Fresh herbs like basil, tarragon, thyme, parsley, and dill are nearly calorie-free and add a whole new layer of flavor to your greens. Top tossed salad with a few handfuls.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Balsamic, Beet, and Berry Salad Recipe | MyRecipes

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary

Instructions

To prepare vinaigrette, combine first 6 ingredients in a small bowl, stirring well with a whisk. Reserve 1 tablespoon vinaigrette. Refrigerate remaining vinaigrette in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
To prepare salad, combine spinach, fruit, and beets on a plate; sprinkle with cheese and walnuts. Add 1 tablespoon vinaigrette; toss well.
Top Tips for Tossing Sprinkle Lightly: Crumbly cheeses (100 calories per ounce), chopped nuts (50 calories per tablespoon), bacon (25 calories per slice), and dried fruits (25 calories per tablespoon) are tasty but calorie-dense. Add these at the end. Plate It: Serve your salad on a plate to keep all those tasty (and heavy) toppings from collecting in the bottom, as they might in a bowl. Dress with Less: A little of our dressing goes a long way. Start with 1 tablespoon; toss well. If the greens still seem dry, add more 1 teaspoon at a time.
*Dressing serves 4.

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