Nutritional Benefits
Broccoli slaw is a versatile, crunchy salad ingredient and side dish that is made from shredded raw broccoli stems. Not to be confused with a cole slaw, broccoli slaw is relatively low in calories, high in fiber and loaded with vital vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, two essential antioxidants that are key to good health. Furthermore, the phytonutrients in broccoli slaw, such as sulforaphane, have been linked with reducing the risk of numerous chronic diseases.
As an alternative to canned and otherwise processed coleslaws, broccoli slaw is an excellent source of dietary fiber, with a quarter cup offering ten percent of the daily recommended value. Furthermore, broccoli slaw contains much lower levels of unhealthy saturated fats than many other packaged products and processed foods. This is particularly important for those who are looking to maintain heart health and cholesterol levels.
The abundance and variety of essential vitamins and minerals present in broccoli slaw assists with skin health, bone strengthen, muscle production and weight loss or maintenance. There is clear evidence that diets including foods which are rich in vitamins C and K have beneficial effects on general health and wellbeing.
Cooking With Broccoli Slaw
The dietary and nutritional benefits of broccoli slaw are multiplied with the correct cooking procedure. According to professional nutrition experts, the best way to cook with broccoli slaw is to lightly steam it before consuming. This maximizes the amount of nutrition which is absorbed by the body. Furthermore, food items such as broccoli slaw may lose some of their nutritional content when deep fried, simmered or microwaved.
When preparing broccoli slaw, it is important to follow correct health and safety procedures. As with all vegetables, it is important that the slaw is washed in warm water and properly cooked in order to avoid illness. Whilst broccoli slaw is an excellent meal ingredient, it must be combined with other plant-based proteins in order to provide a balanced and healthy diet.
Cooking with broccoli slaw is encouraged due to the range of delicious flavors that are achievable. It is an excellent ingredient for vegan and vegetarian dishes and it is also ideal as the crunchy element in many salads and pastas. Furthermore, broccoli slaw is a great optional ingredient for sushi or rice cakes.
Healthy Eating Habits
Whilst including broccoli slaw in your diet is important, it is also essential that it is consumed in moderation. As with all foods, excessive quantities of broccoli slaw are not beneficial to the human body. Furthermore, it is important to combine broccoli slaw with other healthy proteins, vitamins and minerals in order to maximize its healthy properties.
In order to get the most out of broccoli slaw, it must be combined with a range of other nutritious foods. Such foods include beans, peppers and low-fat proteins. It is important to focus on good-quality carbohydrates, such as lentils, beans and whole grain breads. Broccoli slaw is a great addition to any meal and should not be replaced with unhealthy alternatives, such as processed coleslaw.
Conclusion
In conclusion, broccoli slaw is a nutritious food item that is packed with essential vitamins and minerals which are important for human health. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber and is relatively low in calories and saturated fats. This makes broccoli slaw a great side dish or meal ingredient. If cooked and prepared correctly, broccoli slaw can be used as the crunchy component of multiple recipes and should be combined with other foods in order to maximize its nutritional content.
