Raw beet salad: The vibrant heart-health booster
Raw beet salad is not just a tasty addition to dinner; it's a nutritional powerhouse that strengthens the immune system, supports heart health, and boosts energy. Prepared without cooking or baking, and combined with apple and crunchy vegetables, this salad is sure to captivate everyone.
Every new year, I kick off with healthy meals, and I always include raw beet salad in our dinner plans. Not only does it strengthen the body, but it's also delicious and looks stunning on the plate.
Beets are renowned not only for their vibrant colour but, more importantly, for their health benefits. They contain betaine, which has antioxidant properties and helps neutralize free radicals. Its presence may delay the aging process and protect against chronic diseases. Additionally, these red vegetables are rich in vitamin C and B vitamins, which strengthen the immune system and improve skin health.
Are raw beets healthy?
Though not very popular, raw beets are definitely worth including in your diet. Fresh vegetables contain more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which help combat the harmful effects of free radicals. Raw veggies are also higher in fibre, which cleanses the intestines of unnecessary substances and ensures a feeling of fullness.
Regular consumption of beets has a positive effect on heart health. The nitrates in them convert into nitric oxide, dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow. This vegetable is particularly recommended for people with hypertension. Thanks to the presence of betaine, beets also support proper liver function. Beet kvass, made from beets, further boosts immunity, helping to ward off infections.
Recipe for raw beet salad
While beets alone are incredibly healthy, they don't quite make the salad tasty by themselves. When paired with red onion, apple, and pickles, they take on a delightful flavour and sharpness. The dish is rounded off with a delicate dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and a hint of honey.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium red beets
- 1 red onion
- 1 apple
- 1 carrot
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2-3 pickles
- 1.5 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Wash and peel the beets and carrot. Grate them using a grater with large holes. Grate the pickles as well.
- Add the grated apple and chopped red onion.
- Peel the garlic and either crush it using a garlic press or chop finely. Add it to the bowl with the other vegetables.
- Mix the olive oil with lemon juice and honey. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and mix thoroughly.
