Student Recipes
Panzanella Salad Recipe
with LEON Smoked Garlic Aioli
Maintaining a balanced diet that fuels both your body and mind is essential when you’re a student. Enter our Panzanella Salad with LEON Smoked Garlic Aioli, a vibrant and nutrient-packed dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy dose of lutein. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of lutein and show you how to easily incorporate it into your diet.
The Power of Lutein
Lutein, a plant pigment often found in green leafy vegetables, peppers, tomatoes, and peas, is a superstar nutrient that deserves a spot in your daily diet. Why? Because it plays a crucial role in brain health. In fact, lutein is found in every part of the brain, constituting a significant portion of the carotenoid concentration, approximately 66-77%. Here are some key benefits of lutein:
1. Enhanced Learning and Visual Memory: Studies have suggested that a high consumption of lutein may improve learning abilities and visual memory. As a student, these cognitive benefits can be invaluable during your academic journey.
2. Eye Health: Lutein is well-known for its role in maintaining eye health. It acts as a natural filter, protecting the eyes from harmful blue light and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
3. Antioxidant Properties: Lutein is a potent antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress in the body. This can contribute to overall well-being, especially during times of increased stress like exams and assignments.
Incorporating Lutein into Your Diet
Now that you know the incredible benefits of lutein, let's explore how to incorporate it into your daily meals, starting with our delicious Lutein Rich Panzanella Salad recipe:
Ingredients
- 1-2 slices of stale bread per person (sourdough or ciabatta-style bread works best)
- 1 shallot per person, sliced very thinly
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2-3 ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1 red or yellow pepper, roughly chopped
- ½ cucumber, roughly chopped
- Handful of spinach, roughly chopped
- Small handful of fresh basil, roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp LEON Smoked Garlic Aioli
- Salt & pepper to taste
Method
- Begin by washing and prepping all your veggies, cutting them into small cubes and ensuring you save all the juices.
- Chop the basil and shallots, and add them to the veggies, gently mixing everything together.
- Drizzle the salad with extra-virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, and season with salt and pepper.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Just before serving, cut the stale bread into cubes and fold it into the salad, ensuring it absorbs all the delicious juices.
- Finish with a generous dollop of LEON Smoked Garlic Aioli, adding a creamy and savory touch to your dish.
Follow our Student Recipe Series
As you savor the delightful combination of flavors in this Lutein Rich Panzanella Salad, you're not only treating your taste buds but also nourishing your body and mind with the incredible benefits of lutein. To explore more nutritious options and discover LEON's grocery range, visit LEON's Larder.
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Incorporate lutein-rich foods like this Panzanella Salad into your diet, and watch your energy and focus levels soar. Happy eating!
