Heart-Healthy Avocado & Berry Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale leaves
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (optional: basil or mint for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Salad Base:
    • In a large salad bowl, add the fresh spinach or kale leaves as the base.
  2. Add the Toppings:
    • Arrange the avocado slices, mixed berries, walnuts, pomegranate seeds, and thinly sliced red onion on top of the greens.
  3. Make the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Dress the Salad:
    • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients.
  5. Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or mint, if desired. Serve immediately as a refreshing and heart-healthy meal or side dish.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Avocado: Rich in healthy fats (monounsaturated fats), which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and support heart health.
  • Berries: High in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, which are beneficial for reducing inflammation and improving artery function.
  • Walnuts: Contain omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that promote heart health and may help in lowering blood pressure.
  • Pomegranate Seeds: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to improve blood flow, potentially reversing artery damage.
  • Spinach/Kale: Packed with potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and nitrates, which can improve blood flow.

This delicious salad is not only nutritious but also supports heart health by providing ingredients that can help reverse clogged arteries and lower high blood pressure over time.

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