This dish is easy to throw together, (though it does require soaking the almonds the night before), and is much easier with a food processor.
Here is some information about this dish that will help inspire you to make it.
Apples: A medium sized apple has only about 95 calories and 4 grams of soluble fiber. Antioxidants in apples are found to help inhibit inflammation that may lead to dementia, heart disease and strokes. A compound in apples called quercetin, has been found to boost your immune system, especially when you are stressed out - and now-a-days, who isn't?!
Almonds: These little nuts are great in helping lower "bad" cholesterol, and help build strong bones. They are found to decrease the blood sugar spike and thereby modulate the insulin response seen after eating. Almonds also help boost brain activity and may help prevent dementia.
Ginger: Part of a family of anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory roots, ginger is great at reducing internal inflammation as seen with heart disease, arthritis, and muscle pain. Also great for nausea, upper respiratory infections (which seem to be running rampant this year), and can help with migraines.
Lemon Juice: High in vitamins C and B, as well as full of flavonoids which help to fight cancer, lemon juice has been found to help fight constipation, diabetes, high blood pressure, and can eliminate kidney stones. In this recipe, the lemon juice has the added benefit of keeping the apples from turning brown once chopped.
Dates: Help to replenish the body quickly. They are high in fiber and the antioxidant, tannin, which make them anti-inflammatory. Dates are also high in many nutrients and minerals needed to help our vision, prevent cancer, and keep us healthy and strong.
Flax Seeds: These little power house seeds seem to have a million things that help our bodies. A couple of the main benefits are their high levels of omega 3 fatty acids which help fight inflammation in our body. These seeds are also high in fiber. The whole seeds will pass right through you though, so make sure you grind them fresh when using them.
So now that you know how good this is going to be for you, let's make it!
1 medium apple, quartered and core removed
1/4 cup raw almonds, soaked in water over night then drained in the morning
1/2 a lemon, juiced
4-5 pitted dates
1/4 inch piece of raw ginger, peeled and chopped
1 tbsp. ground flax seed
In a food processor, place the apple, almonds, lemon juice, dates, and ginger. Process on pulse until chopped to a desired consistency. I like mine with some chunks. A serving size is 3/4 of a cup. Top with ground flax seed and enjoy!
Helping to guide you towards Your Sensational Self,
Shelley
Integrative Nutrition Health Coach
www.yoursensationalself.com
www.facebook.com/yoursensationalself
yoursensationalself@gmail.com
