Conscious Food Choices

Ariana Salad (Vegan Caesar Salad)

Named after a vegan friend of mine who doesn’t like cashews, which I normally use as a base for vegan Caesar salad dressing, this dressing was made with Brazil nuts.  Brazil nuts are incredibly high in selenium, a trace mineral and powerful antioxidant which has been shown to strengthen the immune system, help prevent cancer, be great for your heart, and also be a mood enhancer…! 1 – 2 nuts a day will do the trick.  Since this recipe was originally adapted from a  vegetarian Caesar dressing recipe using a base of feta cheese, obviously you can switch out the Brazil nuts with raw tofu, cashews, feta cheese, or any combination you have on hand. Don’t tell Ariana but I did hers with half cashews and half Brazil nuts, and she loved it! 😉

Vegan Cesar Salad

• 3/4 c cashews, Brazil nuts, tofu (or feta if not Vegan)
• 1 -2 cloves garlic
• juice of one lemon (1/4 cup)
• 1/2 c water
• 1 c olive oil (light is best)
• 1 T umeboshi vinegar
• 1 T capers
• Salt, black pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in blender or vita-mix and blend. Adjust for salt (use less if doing the feta version).Toss over washed and dried romaine lettuce. Top with freshly toasted garlic croutons and serve immediately. Makes 2 cups.

November 13, 2010 - Posted by Jorin Hawley | Low Carb Recipes, Raw Food Recipes, Recipes, Salads, Vegan Recipes