If green is the colour of health, then this artfully prepared verdant salad is the fountain of youth. Vinegary peppers, ribbons of tender seasonal asparagus, crunchy greens, and a herby dressing for a creamy finish all team up to add layers of deliciousness. How to achieve creamy green goddess dressing minus the dairy? Look no further than avocado; when teamed up with punchy herbs, avocado creates a luscious dressing that will elevate salads of all stripes. You can also use it as a dip or strewn over taco fillings and grain bowls. For extra protein, you can include a sliced hard-boiled egg in the salad.
To pack this salad for nourishment away from home, reach for a wide-mouth jar. Simply place avocado dressing in the bottom of jars and then top with your vegetables, beans, lettuce, and nuts. Seal shut and chill for up to 3 days.
Beans, avocado, and vegetables make this salad a fibre powerhouse that helps feed the billions of bacteria in our guts. The latest scientific theory is that eating more dietary fibre indirectly bolsters our health by keeping the beneficial bugs in our guts happy, and that means our digestive and immune systems remain in good working order.
Per serving:
In large wide-mouth jar or bowl, place green pepper slices. In separate bowl, place sugar and salt and add 2/3 cup (160 mL) boiled water; stir until sugar and salt are dissolved. Stir in cider vinegar. Let cool for a few minutes and then add vinegar mixture to peppers. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours or up to several days.
Half-fill medium saucepan with salted water and bring to a boil. Add snap peas and boil for 1 minute. Using slotted spoon, transfer peas to bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process.
Working with 1 asparagus spear at a time, use vegetable peeler to shave spears into long, thin shavings. Thinly slice remaining tips.
To make dressing, in blender container, place olive oil, 2 Tbsp (30 mL) water, lime juice, avocado, basil, parsley, green onions, garlic, and salt, and blend until smooth. Add more water, 1 Tbsp (15 mL) at a time, if needed to help with blending and to reach a desired smooth consistency.
To assemble salad, divide lettuce among serving plates or large bowls. Top with beans, pickled green peppers, cucumber, peas, and asparagus. Add dollops of dressing and scatter with pistachios.
Ever thought about making burgers as an appetizer or as a potluck meal for friends and family? Try making your favourite burger into bite-sized portions. They might be small in size, but they won’t be small in flavour. These burgers also pair well with a Greek salad for a delicious mid-week lunch or dinner. Fresh is best Squeeze fresh lemon on patties while cooking to give them the fresh zing of citrus.
What worldwide vacation is complete without a stop in Italy? Dad won’t miss the meat in this flavourful mushroom alternative complete with Italian spices and a zesty vegetable tapenade. Portobellos have a uniquely “meaty” texture and act as a sponge to lock in loads of flavour. This meaty plant-based burger is sure to become a favourite—even with any meat-lovers in your life. Custom-made! Don’t be afraid to customize your burger buns to fit your patties. If your bun’s too big, trim off excess and save the trimmed bits of bread, but don’t discard. Instead, cut into small cubes; drizzle with some olive oil, sea salt, and seasonings of choice; bake at 350 F (180 C) for 10 to 15 minutes, and you’ll have delicious homemade croutons for use in soups and salads throughout the week.
Next stop, Asia! This shrimp burger combines classic Asian flavours with unique toppings for rich umami flavour with the saltiness of the ocean. Whether served on a bun or over rice in a more traditional Asian-style meal, try some unique miso yogurt or wasabi mayo dressing for a fabulous flavour bomb. Keep those burgers juicy Place raw patties on a plate or tray, and cover and freeze or refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to keep them together and to lock in moisture.
While on your burger journey, visit Jamaica, where you’ll find the spicy jerk flavours native to this beautiful island. Maple syrup adds a unique, sticky sweetness, while fresh lime juice highlights the fresh, tangy flavours of the Caribbean. Try making your own jerk seasoning or purchase store-bought for an easy shortcut.