Health Nut

Crunch your way to glowing skin

During childhood, my family somehow found a way to incorporate walnuts from our ranch into every possible dish — pasta, pizza, salad, baked goods — that you can think of.  As the daughter of a fifth generation walnut farmer, I grew up eating a lot of walnuts. Years later when my interest in whole food nutrition increased, I realized how beneficial my walnut-rich upbringing truly was. Walnuts are an incredible superfood, packed with protein, vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. Throughout my life, my skin and health have benefitted from walnut’s high dose of antioxidants (they have nearly twice the antioxidants than any other nut!). They’re also a crunchy form of preventative medicine —thank you Omega 3s.

I’ve come to appreciate that the nuts my family takes such pride in growing are a tasty source of nutrients and a powerhouse of health benefits.  They’re linked to better skin, weight management, improved mental performance and reduced effects of aging. They’re also effective at fighting diabetes, cancer and coronary heart disease. While I’m not suggesting you add a walnut-y crunch to every dish you make (sorry Mom and Dad), I do highly recommend upping your walnut intake. This tasty summer salad (one of my favorites) is a great place to start. Enjoy!

Berry Walnut Summer Salad
Serves 4       Prep Time: 20 minutes

2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 cup walnuts, chopped
1 large yellow bell pepper, cut in bite-size pieces
6 cups mixed baby greens
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves (about 4 oz. each), grilled or sautéed until cooked through
½ cup balsamic dressing

*adapted from www.walnuts.org)

Here’s to glowing skin and vibrant health!

Stephanie