Post-Holiday Detox Salad (vegan)

Ali Segersten Nov 29, 2014 8 comments

After the richness of holiday meals and celebratory treats, your body might be calling for a reset. If you’ve had a bit more sugar, alcohol, or indulgent food than usual, your detox pathways may be feeling the strain. Symptoms like sluggish digestion, low energy, bloating, or inflammation can be gentle signals that your system is ready for a little extra support.

This vibrant detox salad is more than just a bowl of greens—it’s a therapeutic blend of plant compounds that help your body rebalance. Cruciferous vegetables like kale and cabbage are rich in sulfur-containing compounds (like glucosinolates) that activate phase 2 liver detox enzymes, while arugula and broccoli offer bitter compounds that stimulate bile flow and support fat metabolism. Add in antioxidant-rich berries, citrus, and pomegranate seeds, and you’ve got a phytonutrient powerhouse that calms inflammation and helps your cells repair.

When you include these raw, colorful, and fiber-rich plant foods regularly—think green smoothies, rainbow salads, fresh-pressed juices—you naturally support your body’s detox systems. And here’s the beauty, the more consistently you nourish your detox pathways, the more resilient your body becomes. Enjoying a holiday treat now and then won’t throw you off course, because your foundation will be solid.

Tip: Make this salad for your next gathering! It’s bright, flavorful, and a perfect way to bring balance to your holiday table—while quietly working its magic beneath the surface.

ALI-2023-PHOTO-VERTICAL-2

About the Author

Alissa Segersten, MS, CN

Alissa Segersten, MS, CN, is the founder of Nourishing Meals®, an online meal-planning membership with over 1,800 nourishing recipes and tools to support dietary change and better health. As a functional nutritionist, professional recipe developer, and author of The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook, Nourishing Meals, and co-author of The Elimination Diet, she helps people overcome health challenges through food. A mother of five, Alissa understands the importance of creating nutrient-dense meals for the whole family. Rooted in science and deep nourishment, her work makes healthy eating accessible, empowering thousands to transform their well-being through food.

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Comments

Thanks Kristie! :)

Thank you for the feedback! I agree, the pomegranate adds such a nice crunch and flavor. :)

Thank you for the feedback! So glad you and your family enjoyed it. :)

I love everything about this salad. I've made it twice just this week, and am making it again in a few days for my sister. My husband and I both loved it, as well as my 14-year old son. I used tahini in the dressing.

I had this salad today and it was fantastic. Someone I work with - a devotee to the elimination diet and Ali's recipes - made it right after thanksgiving. She brought some to me and I will be buying the ingredients for a luncheon on Friday! The flavors are light and the pomegranate adds a nice taste and crunch!

This salad looks like lovely. I could eat it anytime!

Happy Thanksgiving to you too Shirley! :)

Wow, this salad does look and sound absolutely delicious, Ali! The health bennies are a very nice bonus. :-)

Happy Thanksgiving!
Shirley

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