Superfood #3 - Strawberry Spinach Salad

Today's Superfood and cancer fighting foods are strawberries and spinach. Strawberries contain a phytonutrient called quercetin, which has been shown to reduce and kill cancer cells (they inhibit cancer cell proliferation). They are also known as brain food, as they help with memory.

Spinach contains many antioxidants and anti-cancer agents. These agents have been shown to slow down cell division in different cancers. This superfood also contains folate, magnesium, vitamin C, E and A and had anti-inflammatory properties.

This salad is a summer staple for me. It is light, fresh tasting and compliments most things on the grill. Last night my husband grilled burgers (with 5 types of chilies) with a side of this salad. I typically make it with poppy seed dressing. However, with no poppy seeds in the house I made a honey-mustard dijon vinegrette. I also usually make this salad with baby spinach, but decided to use mature spinach this time.

Salad

1 bunch of spinach
1/4 red onion sliced thinly
1/4 cup slivered almonds
1/2 pint strawberries sliced
cracked fresh pepper

Vinaigrette

3 tsp runny honey
1 T red wine vinegar
1 T grainy dijon mustard
1/4 cup olive oil
salt and pepper

Combine ingredients and shake well.

Marc's 5 Alarm Burgers with Spinach Strawberry Salad