In addition to a simple carrot salad recipe, in this recipe article you will find some great information about the nutritional value of carrots.
Here you will find answers to questions like: why should you incorporate carrots into your daily life? And what are the best ways to eat carrots and absorb the greatest nutritional values?
First, you will benefit from incorporating carrots into your daily life because they are a terrific source of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a powerful anti-oxidant which is linked to chronic disease reduction. Additionally, it is a known cancer fighting nutrient. Carrots are also one of the richest sources of vitamin A (the body converts carotene to vitamin A). Vitamin A is then converted to retinal a chemical necessary for healthy vision. Vitamin A not only supports healthy vision, but also a healthy immune system, hair and skin.
While most vegetables are more nutritious eaten in their raw form, because carrots have tough cellular walls, the body is able to convert less than 25 per cent of their beta-carotene into vitamin A. By lightly cooking your carrots you will actually absorb more of the beta-carotene.
One exception to the rule however is juicing. When carrots are juiced the fiber is removed and therefore 100% of the beta-carotene is available at the cellular level. So juicing your carrots ensures you are getting the most nutrition from them.
Another way to enjoy your carrots and preserve the nutrients without cooking is through marinating as in this carrot raisin salad recipe.
Carrot Salad Recipe
Serves 8-10 as a side dish
First:
Shred 4 Large organic carrots (4-6 cups shredded carrots) into a large bowl and stir in ½ - 2/3 cup raisins.
Next:
Whisk the following ingredients together in a small bowl
¼ cup olive oil
3 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar (can substitute lemon juice)
1 ½ to 2 tablespoons honey
¼ teaspoon sea salt or ½ teaspoon Braggs aminos
¼ cup purified water
Make sure that the honey is thoroughly incorporated. Taste and adjust flavors to suit your taste.
Toss carrots and raisins with the salad dressing marinade and let marinate for 1 hour before serving.
Enjoy!
