For my version, I used a boxed spring mix instead of spinach. But any hearty salad green would be great—spinach, baby kale, baby romaine or even a coleslaw blend. Use a tart or sweet-tart variety of apple such as Golden delicious, Granny Smith, Jazz, or Ambrosia. I used an Ambrosia apple (my favourite). Finally, crunchy celery and water chestnuts stand in for the almonds.
The sweet mustard dressing is made with 3 basic ingredients—zucchini, apple juice concentrate, and Dijon mustard. Using zucchini as a thickener is a great way to avoid oil, nuts and soy. Once blended, the zucchini and mustard combination creates a lovely smooth, creamy dressing that clings lusciously to the greens.
Make the dressing first. Toss the greens in the dressing, add the rest of the salad ingredients, and serve.
makes 1 cup
1/2 cup peeled and chopped zucchini
1/4 cup apple juice concentrate
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 clove garlic (optional)
For another great zucchini-based dressing, try Shanghai Bok Choi Slaw with Ginger-Lemon Dressing.
To your health and happiness,
Beans and Rice