Rejuvenating Salad

Once a year, I retreat to Kripalu in the Berkshires of Western, MA for a weekend of yoga, relaxing and cleansing. The tranquil setting offers a respite from all the toxins of my urban lifestyle – noise, pollution, decadent eating and drinking.

I make no pretense that I would embrace this lifestyle in its entirety on a regular basis — though I very much enjoy the elements. But every once in a while, it feels great to refresh my body. I relinquish wine and red meat in favor of the light cuisine they offer in the cafeteria. Honestly, it’s the quintessential “granola-crunchy-health” food. I never cook this way at home, but it tastes great, and I feel refreshed after eating like I never do after a meal of foie gras and truffles.

I have no plans for visiting Kripalu in the near future, but definitely need a little detoxing – especially after Taste of the Nation and Foie Gras Three-Ways. A friend just unearthed the recipe their famous salad dressing. I made a salad full of virtuous ingredients. After this meal, I feel light and rejuvenated.

Salad
(Serves 2 an invigorating lunch)

2 cups arugula or baby spinach
1 small can tuna fish, drained
½ cup cooked chickpeas
2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
2 tablespoons dried cranberries
1 cup steamed broccoli.

Kripalu Dressing
1 cup sunflower oil or grape seed oil
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
¼ cup soy sauce
½ cup lemon juice
? cup sesame tahini
2 cloves garlic
½ tablespoon dry mustard powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ tablespoon chili powder
pinch cayenne
½ cup water

Combine all ingredients and puree in a blender until smooth. Makes about 2 1/2 cups and lasts for a week in the fridge.