Apple Slaw with Kale and Goji Berry Dressing

The combination of goji berries, apples, and carrots make this apple slaw with kale and goji berry dressing a treat you won’t want to miss out on.

Carrots and carotene: Carrots are a favorite low-calorie raw food that are known for their high levels of carotenoids. Carotenoids are fat-soluble phytonutrients, of which beta-carotene is probably the most famous. Beta-carotene is representative of the carotene group of nutrients and is a precursor of vitamin A. It is also referred to as pro-vitamin A.
In plants, carotenoids serve an important role in photosynthesis, provide protection from UV rays, and protect roots from infections.
While there is still much debate about whether beta-carotene protects against cancer in humans, the protective action that it has upon cells as an antioxidant has been shown. Synthetically manufactured beta-carotene is used in everyday foods such as food coloring (e.g., in margarine) and added to vitamins as a nutrient. When preparing carrots, it is important to add a little fat to the dish because it is only in this way that our body can absorb the fat-soluble carotene.

Celery: Celery, also called ribbed celery, is one of the vegetables that has the fewest calories. In addition to its high water content, it also contains a large number of vitamins and minerals. Celery is said help us relax, and, thanks to its diuretic effect, it is helpful in the case of gout and rheumatism. Caution: For people with allergies to birch pollen and mugwort, eating celery may result in a cross sensitivity.

Kale: Kale is a fast-growing plant in the cabbage family. It can be found throughout the world, and, like cauliflower, originated from wild cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.). This hearty winter vegetable contains high levels of vitamin C. Kale provides a broad variety of nutrients including many vitamins, fiber, and phytonutrients.

Goji berries: Goji berries contain many healthy nutrients, as do the berries grown in our area (e.g., currants and strawberries). Goji berries can cause allergies, and there are a number of allergic reactions and cross-reactions. If you are taking vitamin K antagonists (e.g., Marcumar), which are used to reduce blood clotting, you should also be careful as goji berries can increase this anticoagulant effect.

Increasing the tart flavor: If you prefer a more tart flavor, use tart apples such as Braeburn. You can also add a little freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Oil alternatives: Instead of avocado oil, you can use any of your other favorite oils. The author recommends extra virgin olive oil; for a better omega-3 to omega-6 ratio, we would suggest flaxseed oil.

Dried fruits: If you don’t have any goji berries available, you can instead use other dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or mulberries. Just make sure that you choose a variety that hasn’t been treated with sulfur dioxide.