Embarking on a journey towards a healthier lifestyle often means navigating a world of delicious and nourishing recipes, such as the vibrant Roasted Artichoke and Mozzarella Salad. Bursting with flavors, textures, and significant health benefits, this salad is a true culinary masterpiece that supports thyroid health. Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like fresh arugula, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, this salad promises a delightful crunch with every bite.
Artichokes, the star ingredient of this salad, are an under-appreciated superfood. These quirky-looking vegetables are loaded with fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. Artichoke hearts, in particular, are a fantastic source of magnesium and vitamin C, which play a crucial role in thyroid health.
Roasting artichokes takes these benefits to another level. This cooking process helps to concentrate the nutrients and intensify the flavors, resulting in a tasty and healthy treat.
Often overshadowed by organs like the heart and brain, the thyroid gland, nestled in the neck, is an unsung hero in maintaining overall body health. It's primarily responsible for producing and regulating hormones that control metabolism, heart rate, body temperature, and more. Given its essential role, maintaining thyroid health is critical.
Providing the body with the right nutrition plays a significant part in preserving thyroid health. Our Roasted Artichoke and Mozzarella Salad offers just that - a combination of ingredients beneficial for the thyroid gland.
The use of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) in this salad is no mere coincidence. EVOO is packed with heart-healthy fats and antioxidants, which contribute to reducing inflammation, a known disruptor of thyroid function. It is a versatile staple that elevates the flavor of dishes and boosts their health quotient.
When selecting your EVOO, look for the 'extra virgin' label and packaging in dark glass bottles, which help protect the oil from light degradation. Storing it in a cool, dark place will help maintain its nutritional profile and taste.
Our salad's flavors are enriched by a medley of fresh herbs and seasonings. Fresh basil and parsley not only add color and aroma but also bring in a host of benefits with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Adding a tangy twist to our salad are capers, dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Capers, tiny as they may be, are a fantastic source of rutin - a flavonoid known for thyroid-protecting properties. Dijon mustard adds a pungent kick and contains selenium, crucial for thyroid health. Fresh lemon juice, with its high vitamin C content, rounds off the tanginess and aids in iron absorption.
What would our Roasted Artichoke and Mozzarella Salad be without fresh mozzarella balls? These soft, creamy delicacies introduce a contrasting texture to the salad while providing a dose of iodine, essential for thyroid hormone production.
The fresh arugula, cherry tomatoes, and red onion add layers of texture and flavor to the salad. They each come with their own nutritional benefits - from the iron in arugula to the vitamin C in tomatoes and the selenium in onions - making this salad a powerhouse of thyroid-friendly nutrients.
For those of us who enjoy meat in our salads, I'm convinced that it won't be missed in this dish. Now I am someone who loves at least two types of leafy greens in my salad! So along with Arugula you can add spinach, romain, or any other salad that you choose! If you're like me and love multiple leafy greens. I typically used spinach, I love spinach! I hope I'm not alone in my love for this leafy delegacy.
This roasted artichoke mozzarella salad is good for a quick lunch or snack. This dish will pair well with my one pan Rosemary chicken dish as a main course, or even the Mediterranean Quinoa Salad . For my wine lovers I would suggest if you are having this dish as part of a meal pair it with a Pinot Grigio or a Merlot. I'm no wine expert, but I know a good pairing when I taste one.
Now that we've established the impressive credentials of our salad let's dive into the preparation. First, gather your ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Artichoke Hearts, Dried Italian seasoning, Garlic Cloves, Fresh Arugula, Cherry or Grape Tomatoes, Red Onion, Capers, Fresh Parsley, Fresh Basil, Balsamic Vinegar, Fresh Lemon juice, Dijon Mustard, Fresh Mozzarella Balls, and Sprigs of Fresh Herbs.
Begin by preheating the oven for roasting the artichokes. Toss the artichoke hearts in olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning, then spread them evenly on a roasting pan. Roast until they're tender and slightly charred.
In the meantime, prepare your vinaigrette by combining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, dijon mustard, and some finely chopped basil and parsley.
Now it's time to assemble the salad. Start with a bed of fresh arugula, followed by a scattering of cherry tomatoes, thin slices of red onion, and a sprinkling of capers. Add the roasted artichoke hearts and mozzarella balls. Drizzle the vinaigrette generously over the salad and finish with sprigs of fresh herbs.
You can lower the points in this recipe by using shredded fat-free mozzarella cheese and substituting the olive oil and balsamic for the Skinny Girl Fat Free Balsamic Dressing!
With the new Plan, points can vary for those with diabetes. Check your zero point foods. Points can also vary with different brands. Please use your recipe maker to determine your exact points.
Find me on WW Connect @Sassycooking_Alyssa to see my full recipe list!
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Nutrition Information Yield 4 Serving Size 1 grams
Amount Per Serving Unsaturated Fat 0g
With its diverse nutrient profile and heartwarming flavors, the Roasted Artichoke and Mozzarella Salad is a great addition to any diet, especially for those focusing on thyroid health. This salad is versatile - perfect as a standalone meal, a side dish, or even an elegant appetizer for gatherings.
As you continue on your path to healthy living, remember that variety is the spice of life. Don't hesitate to explore more healthy recipes that offer a range of nutrients necessary for a balanced diet and a happy thyroid. After all, investing in your health is the most rewarding commitment you can make.
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