Does it seem strange to combine fruit with salad greens? It shouldn’t anymore. This colorful combination of strawberries, oranges, apples and fennel goes perfectly with mesclun mix-found at most grocery stores, precut and sold by the pound or prepackaged – and a light fruity vinaigrette.

The National Cancer Institute set out to develop a set of recipes that show the most colorful, brightest vegetables and fruits are the ones the are most likely to be packed with phytochemicals and antioxidants and, therefore, the healthiest and best choices. 

Oranges and strawberries, both present in this delicious salad, are thought to prevent carcinogens from triggering the excessive cell growth that leads to cancer. Oranges also have the B vitamin folate, which may help to reduce the risk of heart disease and spina bifida in babies. Apples and pears are great sources of soluble fiber, helping reduce cholesterol and maintain blood sugar levels.

To look and feel your best, now and for years to come, add some color to your life!

COLORFUL FRUIT AND GREENS SALAD INGREDIENTS:

3/4 cup fresh orange juice
2 Tbsp. white wine vinegar or champagne vinegar
1 tsp. olive oil
1/4 tsp. black pepper 1 pinch salt
4 cups mixed salad greens, such as mesclun
1/2 cup strawberries, sliced
1 orange, peeled and sliced
1 Golden Delicious apple or Bartlett pear, cored and chopped
1/2 cup fresh fennel, diced

PREPARATION:

In a large salad bowl, whisk together vinaigrette ingredients.
Add salad greens and toss.
Arrange fruit and fennel on top of greens and serve.
Serves 4.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:
Per serving: 95 calories, 17 grams carbohydrate, 1 gram protein, 1 gram fat, O grams saturated fat, 0 milligrams cholesterol, 74 milligrams sodium, 4 grams fiber, 15 percent calories from fat, 2.25 “5 A Day” servings.

Source: The National Cancer Institute

Originally published on DrKelley.info, May 25, 2001. (Ed. 11.21.10)

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