“FOOD THAT RAWKS!” :

With the temperature still brisk I find it tricky to indulge in some of the seasonal vegetables.

At the farmers market today Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, raw Sweet potatoes, Chinese Cabbage, Cauliflower, Celery Root, and Chicory, were some of my not so inspiring options! With my empty basket in hand and cozy earmuffs still in place, I continued down the line of vendors waiting for the spark of inspiration. I had my fill of avocados and grapefruit last week, today I craved something crisp and new! A bit of spice to direct my attention from the cold is exactly what I needed. Just when I thought I was going to be grubbing on raw broccoli for lunch, a beautiful bouquet of spinach was my muse.

Freshly picked spinach is heavenly, especially made into a beautiful winter salad! Not only is there an abundance of protein available in each tender leaf, it is low in calories, high in vitamins C, E, K, calcium and iron!
SPINACH CAESAR SALAD serves 4

1 large bunch spinach rinsed, trimmed and chopped

1 head romaine rinsed trimmed and chopped
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds, ground
2 garlic cloves, pressed
1 lemon, juiced
1 tsp. prepared Dijon mustard
4 tbsp. olive oil (extra-virgin)
dash or so of Celtic sea salt

2 ripe roma tomatoes halved and sliced.
sprinkle of freshly ground white pepper and

1 TB dulse flakes

Tear or cut spinach and romaine into bite-size pieces and place in a bowl.

Grind the pumpkin seeds using a coffee or nut grinder. Add the ground seeds to the greens and toss well. (The pumpkin seeds are a wonderful substitute for the Parmesan cheese used in conventional Caesar salad recipes).
In a small bowl, blend pressed cloves of garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, a sprinkle of white pepper and Celtic sea salt. Pour over greens and toss well.

Garnish with roma tomatoes.

Just before serving, sprinkle dulse flakes on to give it a more “Caesar” taste.
Best eaten when freshly made. Store separate from dressing if not enjoying right way.

All recipes are provided by Chef Melissa of Terra Bella Cafe in Redondo Beach CA. To learn more about the Raw Food lifestyle or attaned classes and lectures visit www.TerraBellaCafe.com