Recipe: Purslane Salad with Lemon Garlic Dressing

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh purslane (washed and roughly chopped)
• 1 cucumber (sliced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or mint)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • In a large salad bowl, combine the purslane, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   • Pour the lemon garlic dressing over the salad and toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
   • Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad.
   • Add fresh herbs if desired for extra flavor.
5. Serve:
   • Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.

Why Purslane is Important:

Purslane is a highly nutritious plant that is often overlooked. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. It also contains high levels of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Purslane’s antioxidants help fight inflammation, making it beneficial for people with conditions like arthritis and rheumatism. This humble plant is not only a great addition to your diet but also supports overall well-being.