The remembrance of our country’s Independence Day is a wonderful occasion to celebrate, eat delicious food, and enjoy memorable moments with family and friends. After all, we went for such a long time without being able to get together and commemorate important dates. The good news is that we can finally do it again, yay!!! Maybe now we can value these holidays even more and cherish the presence of our loved ones. How about, for this 4th of July, you light up by preparing something healthy and original to surprise family and friends? This arugula salad recipe with turmeric chicken and vegetables is fresh, delicious, and nutritious.

Happy 4th of July!

Ingredients:

• ½ chicken breast (can substitute with lean beef or tofu for vegetarians)

• 1 package (150g) of arugula

• 2 turmeric capsules

• 1 cup strawberries

• Parmesan cheese (optional)

• ¼ of onion (optional)

• Salt

• Pepper

• 1 tsp. olive oil

• 1 tsp. balsamic vinegar

• 1 lemon

Directions:

Marinate the chicken in salt, pepper, and the contents of the turmeric capsules[d]. These will not only give the chicken color, but also add yummy flavor. Cook the chicken on the grill until well done or sauté it in a frying pan with some of the olive oil. Once the chicken is ready, cube it.

Slice the strawberries and chop the onion, adding it to a large bowl with the chicken, arugula, and cheese. Mix everything together. In a small bowl, add the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, juice of the lemon, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix the vinaigrette and serve with the salad. Enjoy!

How is this salad healthy?

• Turmeric has been widely used around the world for therapeutic purposes, including its inflammatory benefits. Research shows that the active components in turmeric of alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids may have predominant anti-inflammatory effects. (1)

• Arugula has not only beneficial compounds for health, like nitrates and phenolics (2), but is also a light and delicious vegetable, ideal for preparing different types of salads.

• A variety of studies have examined the benefits of strawberries, especially for their high antioxidant content (3). They are an ideal fruit to accompany sweet or savory dishes.

• Onion production has increased by about 25% over the past 10 years, making it a highly desirable food. Onion compounds have a variety of health benefits including effects that support our defenses in processes that fight infection. (4)