Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed salad greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula, etc.)
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• Optional additions: avocado slices, radishes, broccoli florets, etc.

Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Wash and prepare all the vegetables, slicing and dicing them as desired. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the mixed vegetables in the bowl.
4. Toss the salad gently to coat the vegetables evenly with the dressing.
5. Serve the fresh mixed vegetable salad immediately as a side dish or add protein such as grilled chicken or tofu to make it a complete meal.

Benefits:

• Nutrient-Rich: Fresh mixed vegetable salads are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being.
• Hydration: Vegetables like cucumber and lettuce have high water content, helping to keep you hydrated and refreshed.
• Fiber: The fiber content in vegetables promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
• Weight Management: Eating a salad filled with nutrient-dense vegetables can aid in weight management by providing a low-calorie, filling option.
• Heart Health: Consuming a diet rich in vegetables is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke due to their high fiber and nutrient content.
• Skin Health: The vitamins and antioxidants found in vegetables contribute to healthy skin, promoting a clear complexion and youthful appearance.

When to Take:

• Fresh mixed vegetable salads can be enjoyed at any time of the day. They make a refreshing side dish for lunch or dinner, or they can be enjoyed as a light meal on their own.
• Consider having a salad as part of your meal prep for the week, making it easy to grab and enjoy as a quick and nutritious snack or meal option.
• Eating a salad before a main meal can help to increase vegetable intake and promote feelings of fullness, potentially reducing overall calorie intake during the meal.

Enjoy the freshness and flavor of a mixed vegetable salad as part of your healthy eating routine, knowing that you’re nourishing your body with essential nutrients and supporting overall health and well-being.