Health Nut #2 - Greek Salad

 

Horiatiki salata is a perfect lunch treat in the summer. And it is indeed a summer dish in Greek cuisine. Not to mention it is a health booster and a staple in any kind of diet if you adjust accordingly the quantity of dressing. 

Ingredients (for 2 large helpings):

• 1 small lettuce (this is not in the original recipe, but I like it)
• 1 cucumber
• 2 tomatoes
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 medium-sized onion
• 150 gr feta cheese
• 20 pitted black olives
• 4 tablespoons dressing made of extra virgin olive oil, sea salt and lime juice
• freshly ground black pepper and extra for garnish
• (on the side) 2 slices of crusty bread or toast sprinkled with more olive oil and 3 cloves of garlic (minced)

Health benefits:

1. The extra virgin olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats and Omega-3. 

2. The vegetables are the best source of phytoestrogen, antioxidants, such as vitamin C, as well as lycopene (in tomatoes). Therefore, Greek salad translates into an excellent dish in anti-cancer diets or to prevent and fight cardiovascular diseases.