What exactly is a “cancer-fighting” food? Well, it’s any food that promotes healthier overall cell function, which can reduce cancer cell growth. The food we eat breaks down into macronutrients and micronutrients which provide fuel for our cells. While all cells need fuel to function, certain fuels have properties that can help fight cancer.
Serves 4
ingredients
- 1 pink grapefruit, skin & white pith removed
- 3/4 cup fennel bulb, sliced ½-inch thick into half-moons
- 1/2 cup golden beets (about 1 small-to medium-sized beet, whole)
- 1/2 cup white onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced with skin & pit removed
- 1/2 cup salted pistachios, shelled & roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 – 3 sprigs dill, finely chopped
- 6 – 10 basil leaves, finely chopped
- black pepper to taste
Directions
SALAD PREP:
- Fill a saucepan with water and place whole beets in water, making sure they are completely submerged.
- Heat on high and bring to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes, then reduce heat to low. Let the beets cook in water for approximately 1 hour, or until a fork can easily pierce the skin.
- Once tender, drain the water and let the beets cool in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Once cooled, use a paper towel to rub off the beet’s skin under running water, or use a sharp knife to peel.
GRAPEFRUIT PREP:
- While the beets are cooking, prepare the grapefruit. Only the segmented grapefruit flesh will be used. With a sharp knife, remove the skin and bitter white pith. Cut between membranes to release the flesh (all membranes should be removed).
- In a large mixing bowl, add grapefruit, fennel, sliced beets, onions, avocado, and pistachios.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine all dressing ingredients.
- Pour dressing over grapefruit mixture and gently mix until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Pour into a shallow serving dish and top with crumbled goat cheese, dill, and basil. Serve immediately.
Maria Tripodis, M.S., R.D., L.D.N., is the founder of Rebel Nutrition. Through evidence-based practice, she promotes healthy habits, balanced diets, and self-confidence to help clients feel empowered to move past barriers to reach optimal health.
