Wellness as a Way of Life: Recipe of the month

Michelle Wilson, wellness program manager

Recipe of the month: Strawberry Salad

This month we will start sharing recipes featuring foods that are in season. Strawberries are a favorite summer food for many people, and they start popping out in full glory in June. In addition to how great they taste strawberries are full of vitamins and nutrients that can keep us healthy. They can help us strengthen our immune systems because of their high levels of vitamin C, and the high fiber content is good for our digestive systems. They contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which support health in many systems in our bodies.

A great way to enjoy strawberries is by adding them to a summer salad. If you toss them together with the ingredients listed here, you will create a very healthy – and tasty – meal or side dish.

Strawberry Salad

Ingredients: 
1 ½ cups fresh strawberries
1 large avocado
¼ cup almonds
¼ cup chopped basil leaves
4 cups spinach or salad greens of your choice
¼ cup olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
½ tablespoon strawberry jam
Salt and pepper to taste

Start with the spinach or salad greens in the bowl. Slice the strawberries and add them on top then sprinkle in the almonds. Slice the avocado and layer the slices on the salad, allowing the strawberries to peak through. Sprinkle with chopped basil leaves. Mix the olive oil, vinegar, strawberry jam, and salt and pepper in a small bowl and whisk until it is smooth. Pour it over the salad and enjoy!

Tip: Add other types of favorite berries to this salad for extra taste and nutrients. Great summer favorites include blueberries, raspberries, and fresh Oregon marionberries.