The Dirty Food Revolution

Dirty Foods? Why....why are they dirty?

Dirty foods refer to foods that are dark color in nature...black mostly. From black rice to black beans to black berries, these foods are starting to trend in healthy recipes and restaurants. What makes them so healthy and appealing? Often foods are black — or deeply hued – because of natural plant pigments called anthocyanins. Derived from the Greek words for “plant” and “blue,” anthocyanins are what make blueberries blue, cherries red, and blackberries black – or almost black. Typically the darker the color, the more anthocyanins are inside. Research suggests that anthocyanins have anti-inflammatory properties and may offer protection against heart disease and caner.

I found this black rice at the store and thought of a cool salad idea!

Ingredients
Black Rice, cooked (follow the package instructions for cooking 1 cup of rice)
Pineapple Tidbits, drained
Mandarin Oranges, drained
Lite Raspberry Vinaigrette

I cooked the black rice based on what the package stated. I drained one can of pineapples and one can of oranges. Then I mixed everything in a bowl with about 1/4 cup dressing. If you are going to eat this salad tomorrow, wait to dress it. The rice will soak up the dressing and taste gummy. Enjoy!