his may be the easiest recipe I have posted to date but it is truly one of my favorites! It’s loaded with fresh strawberries and plenty of natural goodness to keep you feeling light but still very satisfied. Speaking of strawberries, I hope you are enjoying some fresh in season strawberries right now. They are SO sweet and tasty! I promise I am not trying to bore you with SO many strawberry recipes. On the contrary, I am hoping to provide you with as many strawberry ideas as possible, so you can enjoy this strawberry season as much as I am! This recipe was developed basically out of necessity. I am a teacher, so quick and easy lunches are a must. This recipe hit the spot when I was trying to figure out what to take on a recent field trip. I needed something easy, portable and something that would stay somewhat fresh in a not so cold cooler. This salad was perfect and oh so refreshing!
Fresh avocados are a must!
When I first switched to a plant-based diet I was truly overwhelmed as to WHAT TO EAT? It took some time but after a while, I learned what essential ingredients I needed to always have available if I was going to stick to my new way of eating. This Strawberry Salad is a mixture of those basic items that I have learned to always have in the pantry and fridge. Some of the key ingredients that I try to keep on hand are various salad mixes, fresh fruits when in season, canned beans, avocados and various toasted nuts and seeds (Toasted nuts/seeds make everything better!). These ingredients should provide plenty of vitamins/minerals, fiber and protein to get you through the day. Truly, you can come up with so many delicious dishes if you keep a variety of these items handy. These basics make my life SO much easier and tastier!
Toasted almonds make everything better!
Speaking of protein and fiber, did you know that 2 cups of chickpeas actually provide our daily requirement of fiber! What that means for you is less hunger and it can also improve any blood sugar spikes you may experience in the late afternoons. When I first started a plant-based diet, chickpeas were one of the foods that were really satisfying and filling but in a good way. Over four years later and I still always try to include them in my lunches or even use them in hummus for a speedy snack.
You might think about taking this sweet and satisfying strawberry salad to the pool or beach this summer – I am sure planning on it! Enjoy!
Strawberry Salad
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas and/or garbanzo beans 16oz.
- 1 pint strawberries rinsed, hulled, sliced
- 1 cucumber peeled and chopped
- 1 avocado sliced
- ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds
- ¼ cup toasted sunflower and/or pumpkin seeds
- mixed greens
Instructions
- Place mixed greens in a large bowl.
- Pour chickpeas onto of the mixed greens.
- Garnish with strawberries, cucumber, avocado and top with almonds and seeds.
- That's it - Enjoy!!!
