Oftentimes on a ketogenic diet, it can be difficult to stay on track and find delicious low carb dishes that will keep you in ketosis. Most of the foods you find at parties are loaded with carbs or are so boring you would almost rather not even eat. Fortunately, this is a delicious dish that can be prepared in under 5 minutes and will please the entire crowd.
The Main Ingredients in This Salad Include:
- Fresh mozzarella cheese
- Basil
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
There is something about the combination of these flavors that makes it so unique, light, and ultimately refreshing. Many would argue that the star in this dish is the mozzarella cheese, but the stand out ingredient here in terms of health is actually the basil. This common aromatic herb not only adds tons of flavor to sweet and savory dishes, but actually has quite a few health benefits as well.
Benefits of Basil:
#1: Natural Anti-Inflammatory
Basil contains enzyme-inhibiting essential oils within its bright green leaves, most notably, eugenol. This is a unique compound that works similarly to over-the-counter anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen. It can help block and reduce inflammation in the body from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions.
#2: Fight Stress and Depression
A variety of basil called holy basil is widely used as an adaptogenic herb. It is known to help calm the body and help it adapt to stress. Basil can also help those suffering from mental disorders and mood related illnesses by positively impacting the brain and stimulating hormones that are responsible for making us happy.
#3: Combat Viruses and Infections
The essential oils found within basil are so powerful they can help protect against a wide range of bacteria, yeast, mold, and viruses in the body. The polyphenols and phytochemicals can also increase antioxidant activity which, in turn, helps the body fight oxidative stress.
Basil is also rich in vitamin K which is vital in bone and heart health. In addition to the wide array of health benefits, basil is an extremely potent tasting herb. It has a very unique and sweet flavor that lends itself well to a variety of dishes, but works best in light dishes like this cucumber caprese salad.
PrintTantalizing Cucumber Caprese Salad
Enjoy a fresh twist on a classic Italian favorite, this cucumber caprese salad is light, flavorful, keto-friendly, and makes for the perfect summer side dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1-1/2 cups 1x
- Category: Sides
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (sliced in half)
- 1 medium cucumber (roughly chopped)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (cut into 1” pieces)
- 1 bunch basil (finely chopped)
- 1 small shallot (thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic (finely minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Add balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper to a medium sized bowl. Mix well.
- Add cucumbers, tomatoes, cheese, shallot, and basil to bowl. Gently toss until well coated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 112
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: Net Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 4g
Keywords: cucumber caprese salad