A healthy body and skin is a combination of factors and one recipe to get both require a commitment to a balanced and healthy diet throughout the year. Salads are a great way to get all the nutrition needed for a great skin. I am a big fan of lettuce because it is so easily available round-the-year, combines well with most ingredients, is easy on the wallet and is packed with nutrition.

Good for detoxifying the system, this alternative lettuce salad is full of fresh and vibrant flavors. It looks lovely and works wonderfully as both a side salad or a starter. Coconut combines really well with lettuce and the great thing is that not only does coconut add great taste to the salad it has many health benefits too. Raw coconut is high in dietary fiber that encourages weight loss, it improves immunity, and is high in minerals. Coconut is also great for skin and hair.

Nuts, especially pine nuts and almonds, are a great way to oomph up any salad and I always add nuts to mine. Next time your salad tastes or looks bland, try adding dry toasted nuts to it. It will immediately elevate the taste and flavor.

I recently got my hands on date creme vinegar in Dubai and it really tastes good. It is somewhat thicker and sweet with a distinctive aroma and taste of dates, which makes it a perfect addition to most salads.


I N G R E D I E N T S 
8-10 organic lettuce leaves
1/4 fresh coconut - shaved
1/4 cup pine nuts and shaved almonds
1 spoon dry roasted flax seeds
1 lime juice
Date vinegar
Extra virgin cold-pressed olive oil

D I R E C T I O N S 

Wash the lettuce in warm water and make sure it's clean. Cut the leaves as per required size (I like to keep it small so it's easier to eat) 
Take a bowl and mix all the other ingredients together
Serve and eat fresh

Cook time: 7 minutes
Serves: 1 (full dinner) and 2, if side dish