Posted by Janis Jibrin on Fri, May 29, 2009
Besides being delicious and easily portable, grapes are a rich source of the disease-fighting antioxidant called resveratrol. This phytonutrient gained some fame as a possible explanation for the lower heart disease rates in wine-sipping French people.
Grapes produce resveratrol to protect themselves against environmental stressors, such as harsh sunlight and attacks from fungus or other microbes. In humans, resveratrol is also protective, possibly reducing the risk for heart disease, cancer and other chronic diseases. It does so by taming inflammation and fighting off free radicals, which damage DNA.
Although red wine put resveratrol on the map (the compound is found in the fruit’s skin; white wine is processed without grape skins), grapes are a healthier way to get this compound as alcohol has been shown to increase cancer risk, even if used in moderation.
Of course, you probably already know that local produce is best—it’s often freshest, tastiest and most nutritious. But one of the only places grapes are grown here in the United States is California; it has an ideal grape-growing climate. That means you’ll rarely see grapes at farmer’s markets in other states. We’re in grape season right now (it runs from May through January), so the ones you’ll get at your grocery store are at their peak. So, next time you’re shopping, pick up a bagful and don’t be afraid to experiment. This versatile fruit is more than just a snack—you can use them in your salads (try the recipe below), meals and desserts!
Chicken Salad with Marinated Grapes and Red Onions
Pair this refreshing salad with a big slice of crusty, whole grain bread dipped in 2 teaspoons olive oil or a healthy spread (like Smart Balance Buttery Spread), and you’ve got a meal!
Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups halved grapes
1/4 cup finely sliced red onion
1 pound rotisserie chicken, meat pulled from bones and skin removed
4 cups mixed greens
DIRECTIONS
1. Mix vinegar, oil, salt and pepper to taste in a medium bowl. Add grapes and onion and set aside.
2. Combine chicken and greens in a large bowl. Dress with grape mixture and serve.
Nutritional Information
1 serving
Calories: 291
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrate: 14 g
Dietary Fiber: 2 g
Total Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Cholesterol: 92 mg
Sodium: 401 mg
Calcium: 50 mg
For more healthy-eating ideas and tasty recipes, check out TheBestLife.com.