A sprout salad is basically any type of salad that contains a fair amount of sprouted seeds. Vegetable seeds, grains, and nuts are commonly used in a variety of salads. They can be combined in salads with many vegetables, fruits, and other healthy foods. Different types of sprouts can also be combined in a healthy salad by themselves along with a simple dressing. The benefits of a sprout salad are numerous because it is loaded with powerful antioxidants and vitamins that can help to restore nutritional imbalances as well as prevent many diseases.
Fresh sprouts are available in many grocery stores in the fresh produce section. They can also be sprouted at home in a jar or in a special sprouting container. The seeds are soaked for several hours and then kept moist until they are ready for harvesting, which usually only takes about a few days. Some of the vegetable seeds commonly used in salads include celery, clover, and legumes. Other suitable seeds include grains, such as millet, rice, and wheat.
Making a sprout salad is fairly easy to do as the sprouts are versatile and can be added in with most cooked and raw food salads. Many vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, go well in this type of salad. Avocados are also a great addition because of their high fat content, which helps to make up for the lack of fat within the sprouts. Individuals who have developed a taste for sprouts often enjoy a variety of sprouts tossed together with a nutritious or light dressing.
Some sprouts, such as nuts, peas, and lentils, contribute to a delicious, crunchy taste. Radish, broccoli, and sunflower seeds are commonly used to add additional flavors and nutrition to salads without adding excess calories. Another flavor that goes well in a sprout salad is a hint of sweetness, which can be obtained by adding raisins and other dried fruits. Sprout salad recipes can take the guessing out of which sprouts go good with which foods in order for them to taste just right.
One of the benefits of a sprout salad is that the sprouts are able to provide plenty of nutrition without the extra calories. They are naturally high in antioxidants, which can help to combat free radicals and fight against cancer. In addition, they are able to build up the immune system, fight against heart disease, and slow down the aging process.