Lunch: Fresh Tomato & Cucumber Salad Recipe

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Nuts, Basil

Health benefits of Fresh Tomato & Cucumber Salad Recipe

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form. Nuts are a natural source of Inositol, a derivative of Vitamin B (which is often prescribed in the form of supplements for women with PCOS). Inositol can effectively control the symptoms of PCOS by reducing insulin resistance and improving insulin sensitivity. Basil is an excellent stress reliever, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients

1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon minced fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon minced fresh mint or 1/4 teaspoon dried mint
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
4 plum tomatoes, seeded and chopped
2 medium cucumbers, chopped
1/2 cup Greek olives, sliced
2 cups torn mixed salad greens
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

Instructions

In a small bowl, whisk the first eight ingredients; set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumbers and olives. Drizzle with half of the dressing; toss to coat. Arrange salad greens on a large serving plate; spoon tomato mixture over top. Sprinkle with cheese and pine nuts and drizzle with remaining dressing.