Seaweed is an ocean plant full of beneficial vitamins and minerals. Harvesting of seaweed has been occurring in Asia for over 2000 years, where it is part of regular diets. It is common to find seaweed as a wrapper for sushi, and the plant also makes a healthy salad.
Identification
Several types of seaweed grow deep in the ocean, all with similar health benefits. The variety commonly used for salad tends to be green or a mixture of green and brown or purple. Chopping raw seaweed and mixing it with a light dressing is one way to consume the product. Raw seaweed chopped for salad has a smooth texture with a surprising crunch. This salad digests easily, making the nutrients readily available to the body.
Nutrition
Seaweed is a high fiber food with high levels of calcium, iron and magnesium. This nutritious food is also a good source of vitamins A, B and C and folic acid. Seaweed contains incomplete protein, with a lower value than legumes and other comparable food items. Adding protein, such as eggs, fish or other meat, to the salad creates a dish high in vitamins, minerals and protein.
Health Benefits
There are several seaweed types for a salad. Dark-colored seaweeds have chelating agents to help boost the immune system and eliminate toxins from the body. Seaweed is low in calories, making the salad a healthy option when prepared with other low calorie and low fat ingredients. All seaweed types are high in iodine, which lowers the risks of iodine deficiency and goiter.
Salad Ingredients
Healthy ingredients in a seaweed salad make it a good option as a side dish. A low calorie recipe for seaweed salad contains raw seaweed mixed with a small amount of sugar, sesame oil, sesame seeds, tamari and lemon juice. Letting the salad rest in a refrigerator for two hours allows the flavors to blend for a tasty dish.
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