MEDJOOL DATE APPLE SALAD

(SERVES 4, Double all for large party)
Medjool dates contain a fiber knows as Beta-D-glucan. Beta-D-glucan decreases the body absorption of cholesterol as well as delays the absorption of glucose in the small intestine. This in turn helps to keep blood sugar levels even!
Ingredients
  • 3 TBSP Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 2 TBSP Apple cider vinegar
  • 2 TBSP Small red onion, diced
  • 1 TBSP Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 Cup Medjool dates, pitted, cut in 1/2 and sliced
  • 1/2 cup Sliced mushrooms
  • 4 Cups Spinach
  • 1-2 Cups Swiss chard or frisee, cut into bite sized pieces, for color
  • 1 Apple, cored and thinly sliced
  • 1 Pear, cored and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Pistachios, chopped
  • 2 Radishes, thinly sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: 2-3 scallions, sliced; fresh, crumbled goat cheese; add orange flavoring to the vinaigrette

Directions
1 Mix oil, vinegar, onion and Dijon mustard in a bowl until well blended. Can be chilled and used later.

2 Add remaining ingredients to a large mixing or serving bowl and season. 

3 Toss with dressing. Add optional goat cheese and stir gently.