Paul’s Paradise Salad

In memory of my good friend and cousin, Paul 1965-2017

It was a special Thanksgiving gathering that inspired this amazing blend of tropical fruits. Wanting a less traditional, yet healthier dessert, I thought it wise to serve the goodness of nature’s candy, fruit.

I casually asked my cousin Paul what he thought would make a good fruit salad. Looking around the kitchen he spied a large bowl of fruit and several pineapples standing on the counter. Without hesitation, he pointed to the pineapple, then bananas and finally some kiwi. We carefully mixed them together and the result is

more delicious than words can describe.

 

The health benefits are numerous and recent studies confirm plants contain the medicine (protective nutrients) our bodies need, not only to survive, but to thrive.

Healthy fats found in bananas keep dietary cholesterol levels in check. And regular consumption may help prevent high blood pressure and protect against atherosclerosis due to their excellent source of potassium.

 

Kiwis, high in vitamin C, also contain many other plant nutrients that have protective properties. One study with children in northern and central Italy revealed the more kiwi or citrus they consumed, the less likely they were to have shortness of breath, wheezing, or night coughing. In addition, its fiber-rich fruit (similar to other fiber-rich foods) are good for keeping the blood sugar levels of diabetic patients under control.

 

Pineapples at peak ripeness are juicy and add a vibrant tropical flavor to this nutritious salad. Well known as a digestive aid, pineapple is antioxidant-rich and a potential anti-inflammatory. 

Ingredients:

 

Important note:

Wash your produce before cutting, if applicable. Cutting dirty produce can contaminate your fruit with harmful organisms. Place in the sink and give it a good bath with gentle earth friendly soap.

 

For produce shopping, and preparation tips read here.

 

3-4 pineapple slices, cored and cut up

1-2 kiwis, washed and unpeeled. Peel if not organic. (Peelings are nutritious.)

1-2 bananas, sliced in bite-size pieces

Instructions:

 

Combine pineapple and banana in a bowl and stir gently. Add kiwi before serving.

 

Add some chopped walnuts for a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids. 

Health Benefits:

 

Antioxidant protection

Athletic performance 

Cardiovascular health

Digestive aid

DNA protection

Immune support

Macular degeneration support

**Important Note**

 

Choose organically grown fruits and vegetables whenever possible. Non-organic produce is deficient in minerals (needed to prevent disease) and replete with dozens of chemicals that create a toxic overload in your body. Children especially need to avoid chemically-grown foods.

 

If organic produce is not available to you, at least adhere to the clean fifteen and avoid the dirty dozen.

 

Shop your local co-op, farmer’s market, and grow your own!

 

Diabetics should restrict their fruit sugar (fructose) to 25 gms. per day, according to Joseph Mercola, M.D.

 

Please consult your holistic healthcare practitioner if you have blood sugar issues before enjoying this healthy dessert.