Chopped Veggie Salad with Spicy Caesar Dressing

I probably eat a salad for lunch 6/7 days of the week. Not only are they so quick to make, but they are packed with benefits and don't cost alot. You can buy almost all of the ingredients to make six salads for the cost of one from your local cafe. And you can easily make a fresh salad dressing to top it off.

As much as I love eating salads for the fresh flavors and ease, I mostly do it for the amazing benefits. I used to google all of the benefits of what I was eating while I was eating it. That is kind of how I got into nutrition and health. So while I share my spicy caesar dressing today, I'm also going to share the benefits of what I put into my salads and they why behind it.

Caesar Dressing:
For this dressing you can use roasted garlic or fresh garlic. I do prefer the roasted garlic.
1/2 cup avocado oil
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup tahini
1 tbsp dijon mustard
1 lemon juiced
pinch sea salt
pinch ground black pepper
pinch red pepper flakes
Blend all ingredients and store in the fridge for up to a week

Tahini is packed with zinc and calcium and omega 3s. It is amazing for you hair skin and nails.
Lemon is a major detoxifier. Its also amazing for clear skin. It's packed with Vitamin C which is great for collagen and boosting your immune system.
Kale is one of the most nutrient dense foods, packed with Vitamins A, C, and K and antioxidants. It's amazing for you skin and detoxification
Bell Peppers are packed with Vitamin C, and boost collagen. They increase your circulation and have anti-aging benefits. They also add a good crunch to any salad.
Red Onion Prevents cell damage and may aid in anti-aging. They can also help prevent UV damage.
Red Cabbage is the most underrated vegetable. Its great for collagen production, and packed with vitamin C. It helps decrease inflammation and can help improve digestion.
Carrots of course are packed with the well known benefit - beta-carotene. Which is great for eye sight and regulate oil production. They are also packed with vitamin A.
Celery has become the most popular veg in 2019. The celery juice has taken over the health world. It has so many benefits. It helps detoxify and flush out excess fluid from the body. It is amazing for skin and hair. It also will help cool you down.
Hemp seeds are my favorite protein source to add to my meals. They are one of the most nutrient dense foods on the planet! They are amazing for hair, skin, and nails. They are packed with fiber. They are also rich in healthy omegas.
Cucumber is cool (like the saying). No really its helps to cool you down. It also is very hydrating. It is also filled with magnesium which helps you and your muscles relax

These are just a few of the veggies I love to toss in my salads. I do like to change it up, but these are my usual go to's. There are so many veggies out these with so many benefits. So next time you dive into your salad at work, don't just think "this is healthy, this is what I have to eat". Think of all of the benefits it is serving you, especially when served raw.

The word salad gets such a boring rep. We always want something more than just a salad. Try adding some broiled salmon or shrimp to your salad. I love adding simple mills almond flour crackers to my salads for an added crunch. I also love adding some detoxifying herbs. And since it's fall time, squash and dried cranberries and walnuts are awesome additions to your salads. Salads don't have to be boring. Life should be enjoyable, and so should your lunch!

I'd love to hear what you guys add to your salads. Let me know your recommendations in the comments below!

XOXO,

Kimmy