Salads/Dressings

This salad dressing has some unusual ingredients for an outstanding flavor. The small amount of steamed zucchini gives the dressing some of its texture, and the combination of garlic, lemon juice and soy gives the dressing its zip. It is great on a salad of Asian or baby greens, or try it over steamed asparagus or broccoli.

Food as Medicine
Of the most commonly consumed nuts and seeds, sesame seeds are among the highest in phytosterols - plant compounds that may reduce cholesterol in the blood. Sesame seeds are also an excellent source of copper; the 1/4 cup in this recipe provides 74 percent of the Daily Value of this vital mineral. Copper helps to promote several antioxidant and anti-inflammatory enzyme processes.

1/4 cup sesame seeds (buy raw hulled seeds and toast them in a dry pan over medium heat, stirring constantly)
1/4 cup sliced, steamed zucchini
4 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley
1 clove garlic, chopped

1. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry nonstick skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly until browned.

2. Combine the sesame seeds and remaining ingredients in a blender container. Blend until smooth.

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