Raw beet salad: A colorful boost to heart and immune health
Raw beet salad isn't just a tasty side dish for lunch. These popular vegetables prepared this way boost the immune system, support heart health, and provide energy. There's no need for cooking or baking—just a mix with apples and crunchy vegetables. Everyone will be amazed by this salad.
Every new year, I start with healthy meals, and for lunch, I serve a raw beet salad. Not only does it strengthen the body, but it's also delicious and looks beautiful on the plate.
Beets are known not just for their intense color but especially for their health benefits. They contain betaine, which has antioxidant properties and helps neutralize free radicals. Its presence may slow down aging processes 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 condition.
Are raw beets healthy?
Although not commonly consumed raw, beets are definitely worth adding to your diet. Fresh vegetables contain more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help combat the harmful effects of free radicals. Raw vegetables also contain more fiber, which cleanses the intestines of unnecessary substances and provides a feeling of fullness.
Regular consumption of beets positively impacts heart health. The nitrates they contain convert into nitric oxide, which dilates blood vessels, thereby improving blood flow. This vegetable is especially recommended for people with hypertension. Due to the betaine content, beets also support proper liver function. The kvass made from them further boosts immunity, providing protection against infections.
Recipe for raw beet salad
Unfortunately, beets alone, although very healthy, aren't enough to make the salad tasty. Only when combined with red onion, apple, and pickled cucumber do they gain flavor and intensity. The dish is complemented by a delicate dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and a hint of honey.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium beets
- 1 red onion
- 1 apple
- 1 carrot
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2-3 pickled cucumbers
- About 1 oz lemon juice
- About 1 oz olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Wash and peel the beets and carrot. Grate them on a coarse grater. Grate the pickled cucumbers as well.
- Add the grated apple and finely dice the onion.
- Peel the garlic clove. Press it through a garlic press or chop finely, then add it to the bowl with the vegetables.
- Mix the olive oil with lemon juice and honey. Add salt and freshly ground pepper to the mixture.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and mix thoroughly.
