Broccoli has a strong, positive impact on our body’s detoxification system. Researchers have recently identified one of the key reasons for this detox benefit. Glucoraphanin, gluconasturtiian, and glucobrassicin are 3 glucosinolate phytonutrients found in a special combination in broccoli. This dynamic trio is able to support all steps in body’s detox process, including activation, neutralization, and elimination of unwanted contaminants. Broccoli can provide you with some special cholesterol-lowering benefits if you will cook it by steaming. The fiber-related components in broccoli do a better job of binding together with bile acids in your digestive tract when they’ve been steamed. When this binding process takes place, it’s easier for bile acids to be excreted, and the result is a lowering of your cholesterol levels.

For a low-sodium dish, this delicious broccoli salad packs on the flavor. Sesame seed oil can help heart health by preventing atherosclerotic lesions with the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound known as sesamol. Sesame oil has a lowering effect on blood pressure and levels of sodium in the blood. By drizzling some sesame oil on a tossed salad, in place of olive oil, is a great way to add it to your diet to reap its health benefits.

Broccoli Salad With Sesame Dressing And Cashew Nuts

This recipe is:

• Low Carbohydrate
• Low Cholesterol
• Low Saturated Fat
• Low Sodium

Ingredients

• 1 large bunch broccoli rabe, woody ends trimmed
• 2 heads broccoli
• 1 tablespoon sultana (golden) raisins, chopped
• 1/4 cup coarsely chopped salted cashews
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons seasoned rice-wine vinegar
• 2 large garlic cloves, finely minced or pressed through a garlic press
• Large pinch cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds, lightly toasted

Preparation

Begin by cutting broccoli florets into quarters and let sit for several minutes before cooking to enhance its health-promoting benefits. Steam for 5 minutes. Rinse in a colander beneath cold running water. Drain well, and wrap in a clean tea towel to absorb excess water. Chop into small pieces. Place rabe and broccoli florets in a large bowl with raisins and cashews. Whisk together the oils, vinegar, garlic, and cayenne. Drizzle over salad, and lightly toss. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

• Yield: 6 to 8 servings (serving size: about 1 1/4 cups)

ENJOY!

Source: whfoods.com, health.com