Family Features – Beyond their striking color and delicious flavor, strawberries are loaded with nutrients, including powerful, disease-fighting antioxidants The antioxidants in strawberries aid in memory performance and may help prevent Alzheimer's disease by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, two key factors that can cause age-related diminished brain function. Strawberries may help prevent the growth of certain types of cancers. Additionally, strawberries are very low in sugar and are a source of fiber, potassium, vitamin C and vitamin B, which can prevent birth defects and contribute to heart health by helping to control cholesterol.
Put a spin on the classic green salad and try a refreshing Strawberry and Cucumber Salad and enjoy the fresh, crisp flavors of the season.
Strawberry and Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 minutes
Makes 6 servings
Vinaigrette:
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped
fresh dill
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped
fresh mint
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salad:
4 1/2 cups (1 1/2 pounds) California strawberries, stemmed and quartered
1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch dice
3/4 cup Italian parsley leaves
4 green onions, chopped
6 radishes, thinly sliced
To make vinaigrette: In bowl, whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients except oil. Whisk in oil until blended.
To make salad: In large bowl, toss salad ingredients with vinaigrette until coated. Mound salad on 6 chilled plates, dividing it equally. Serve immediately.
For more information about California strawberries, health benefits and hundreds of recipes, visit www.calstrawberry.com.
