Green Goddess Dressing

Ingredients:
- 1-2 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
- 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked for at least 2 hours and drained
- 2 tablespoons hulled hemp seeds
- 1-3 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (depending on taste)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon green spirulina or moringa powder (adjust to desired color)
- 1-2 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)

Optional: 1 Date, to counteract any bitterness, cilantro, parsley, or dill, pepper.

Instructions:
1. In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, soaked cashews, hulled hemp seeds, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, green spirulina or moringa powder, minced garlic, sea salt, and water.
2. Blend the ingredients on high speed until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. If needed, add more water gradually to achieve your desired consistency.
3. Take a moment to taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. You can add more lemon juice for tanginess or salt for extra flavor.
4. Once the dressing is perfectly blended and seasoned, transfer it to a jar or airtight container.
5. Store the dressing in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the dressing to thicken slightly.
6. Drizzle this creamy avocado cashew dressing generously over your favorite salads or use it as a dip for fresh vegetables.
7. Enjoy the nutrient-packed goodness and creamy texture of this raw vegan salad dressing!

Note: This dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If the dressing thickens too much after refrigeration, simply add a splash of water and stir to achieve the desired consistency.

Serving Size - 2 tablespoons Calories: 90 Total Fat: 8g - Saturated Fat: 1g - Trans Fat: 0g - Cholesterol: 0mg  - Sodium: 60mg  -Total Carbohydrate: 4g - Dietary Fiber: 2g - Sugars: 0g - Protein: 2g

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and any modifications made to the recipe. It's always a good idea to double-check the nutrition information using the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

The Power Duo: Raw Avocados and Leafy Greens

In the world of nutrition, few ingredients can rival the health benefits of raw avocados and leafy greens. These two powerhouses are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that can positively impact your gut health, overall well-being, weight loss goals, and muscle-building efforts. In this blog post, we will delve into the in-depth health benefits of raw avocados and leafy greens, exploring how they can support your journey towards optimal health and vitality.

1. Gut Health:
Raw avocados and leafy greens are both rich in fiber, which plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut. Fiber acts as a prebiotic, providing nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria and promoting a diverse and balanced microbiome. A healthy gut microbiome is associated with improved digestion, enhanced nutrient absorption, reduced inflammation, and a strengthened immune system.

2. Overall Health:
a. Nutrient Density: Avocados and leafy greens are nutritional powerhouses, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Avocados are a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin E, and B vitamins. Leafy greens, such as spinach and kale, are loaded with vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, iron, and calcium.
b. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Both avocados and leafy greens contain anti-inflammatory compounds, such as antioxidants and phytochemicals. These compounds help combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation in the body, and support overall cellular health.
c. Heart Health: The monounsaturated fats found in avocados contribute to healthy cholesterol levels and may reduce the risk of heart disease. Leafy greens, with their high levels of nitrates, have been linked to improved cardiovascular health by promoting healthy blood pressure levels.

3. Weight Loss:
a. Satiety: Avocados and leafy greens are both low in calories and high in fiber, which can help promote feelings of fullness and reduce overeating. Including these ingredients in your meals can support weight loss efforts by keeping you satisfied for longer periods and reducing the likelihood of unhealthy snacking.
b. Healthy Fats: Avocados provide a source of healthy fats that can help regulate appetite and support weight loss goals. These fats contribute to a feeling of satiety and can help curb cravings for unhealthy, calorie-dense foods.

4. Muscle Building:
a. Protein Content: Leafy greens such as spinach and kale provide a good amount of plant-based protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, making leafy greens a valuable addition to a muscle-building diet.
b. Nutrient Support: Avocados and leafy greens offer a range of vitamins and minerals that are important for muscle function and recovery. These include potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which contribute to energy production, electrolyte balance, and antioxidant protection.

Raw avocados and leafy greens are nutritional powerhouses that offer a wide array of health benefits. From supporting gut health and overall wellness to aiding in weight loss goals and muscle building, these ingredients are a valuable addition to any diet. Incorporating raw avocados and leafy greens into your meals can help you achieve optimal health, vitality, and a thriving gut microbiome. So, go ahead and explore the countless ways to enjoy these nutrient-dense ingredients and reap their many rewards!