Rediscovering Refreshing Cucumber Sandwiches: A Nostalgic Journey to My Raw-Riffic Food Blog in the Early 2000s!
Hello, fellow foodies! Today, I'm thrilled to embark on a nostalgic journey back to the early 2000s, when I wholeheartedly embraced raw foodism and created my very own blog, Raw-Riffic Food. One of the most delightful treats I shared back then were these scrumptious and refreshing cucumber sandwiches. Simple, healthy, and oh-so-refreshing, they quickly became a fan favorite! But that's not all—I'll also be sharing more cherished recipe favorites from my Raw-Riffic Food blog, so get ready to revisit the delicious magic of the early 2000s! Before we begin, I must offer a quick note of apology – the photo I have for these cucumber sandwiches is old and not the best, but the taste is absolutely delightful!
The Health Benefits of Cucumber Sandwiches:
Remember the saying, "simple is best"? Well, that perfectly describes these cucumber sandwiches! Let me take you through the health benefits of the star ingredients:
Cucumbers: These cool green wonders are mostly water, making them incredibly hydrating. Not only that, they're loaded with vitamins K and C, potassium, and magnesium. Plus, they have silica, promoting healthy skin and fighting inflammation. (Medical News Today)
Tomatoes: Bursting with lycopene, tomatoes are a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health and may even reduce the risk of certain cancers. They're also packed with vitamins A, C, and potassium. (Healthline)
Avocado: Ah, the creamy goodness of avocados! Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and vitamins like E and B-vitamins, avocados are perfect for brain health and nutrient absorption. (Nutrients)
Arugula: This peppery green is a nutritional powerhouse! With vitamin K for strong bones, vitamin A and C for antioxidants, and natural nitrates for a healthy heart, arugula is a true superstar. (Nutrition and Cancer)
Hemp Seeds: Don't underestimate these tiny seeds! They pack a complete protein punch, supplying all essential amino acids. The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids promote heart health and reduce inflammation, while zinc and iron contribute to overall well-being. (Nutrition Research Reviews)
Recommended Reading:
If you're as excited about healthy eating as I am, here are some fantastic reads to expand your knowledge and passion:
"The Raw Food Detox Diet" by Natalia Rose
"Eating for Beauty" by David Wolfe
"The China Study" by T. Colin Campbell and Thomas M. Campbell II
Recipe: Fresh Cucumber Sandwiches
Servings: 2 (feel free to adjust as needed)
Ingredients:
1-2 cucumbers (depending on the size)
1 tomato, chopped into little chunks
1 avocado, peeled, stoned, and chopped into little chunks
1-2 cups fresh arugula
Dash of sea salt, to taste
1-2 tsp minced garlic
1-2 tsp Bragg's Amino Acids
1 tablespoon hemp seeds
Instructions:
Time to get hands-on! Peel the cucumbers and slice them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and pulp to create a little veggie boat for our scrumptious stuffing.
In a bowl, mix the chopped tomatoes, avocado, fresh arugula, sea salt, minced garlic, Bragg's Amino Acids, hemp seeds, and the leftover cucumber from scooping. Give it all a good mix, and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Now, the best part—stuff the salad mix inside the hollowed cucumbers, making sure to pack them well. Voilà, you've got yourself the freshest and healthiest cucumber sandwiches!
Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 2 servings):
Calories: 155 kcal
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 85mg
Total Carbohydrates: 14g
Dietary Fiber: 7g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 5g
Vitamin D: 0mcg
Calcium: 40mg
Iron: 1.5mg
Potassium: 690mg
Suggested Servings and Storage:
Cucumber sandwiches are best served fresh, but you can store any leftover salad stuffing mix in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, note that the cucumbers may become watery and less crisp with time. To retain their freshness, store the cucumber sandwiches individually wrapped in plastic wrap or in airtight containers and consume within 24 hours.
Conclusion:
These simple, healthy, and refreshing treats will forever hold a special place in my heart, and I hope they find a cherished spot in yours too. Stay tuned for more beloved recipe favorites from my Raw-Riffic Food blog! Keep shining and savoring every moment of your delicious journey to good health. Happy munching!
