Black Bean Dip with Cucumbers, Yellow Peppers, Beets and Carrots!
Black Bean Dip:
1 can Organic Black Beans (no salt, drain and wash)
1 tsp Chili Powder
1 tsp Cumin
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Organic Ground Horseradish
1 tbsp Fresh Thyme Leaves
Blend in Food Processor or good old fashion elbow grease.
Yum!
Health Benefits:
1. Black Beans:
The black bean's fiber, potassium, folate, vitamin B6 and phytonutrient content, coupled with its lack of cholesterol, all support heart health. The fiber in black beans helps lower the total amount of cholesterol in the blood and decrease the risk of heart disease.
2. Cucumbers:
Cucumbers are a valuable source of conventional antioxidant nutrients including vitamin C, beta-carotene, and manganese. In addition, cucumbers contain numerous flavonoid antioxidants, including quercetin, apigenin, luteolin, and kaempferol. Cucumber also contain phytonutrients known to provide anti-cancer benefits which are called lignans. The lignans pinoresinol, lariciresinol, and secoisolariciresinol have all been identified within cucumber. When we consume plant lignans like those found in cucumber, bacteria in our digestive tract use the lignans and convert them into enterolignans. Enterolignans have the ability to bind onto estrogen receptors and can have both pro-estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects. Reduced risk of estrogen-related cancers, including cancers of the breast, ovary, uterus, and prostate has been associated with intake of dietary lignans from plant foods like cucumber. (Source: www.whfoods.com)
3. Yellow Pepper:
Yellow bell peppers are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, protein and iron. They have a very sweet taste and can accentuate the flavor of most ingredients you add to a dish.
4. Beets:
Beets are high in immune-boosting vitamin C, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium which is essential for healthy nerve and muscle function, and manganese which is good for your bone health, liver functions, kidney functions, and pancreas. Beets also contain the B vitamin folate, which helps reduce the risk of birth defects.
5. Carrots:
Carrots contain high levels of beta carotene and fiber. This root vegetable is a good source of antioxidant agents as well, that support healthy visions, skin and teeth. Carrots are also, rich in vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, vitamin B8, pantothenic acid, folate, potassium, iron, copper, and manganese.
This healthy snack feeds your body the nutrition it needs to support your bodily functions while reducing your risk for disease. It has no fat, no chemicals, no GMO's, is gluten free, vegan and extremely delicious.
