Tangy Cucumber Salad

Let me start by saying that I've never been a huge fan of cucumbers... until I perfected this recipe. The health benefits of this superfood cannot be ignored, which prompted me to keep experimenting until I found a way to eat them. This recipe for cucumber salad is easy, tangy, refreshing, and absolutely delicious! Not convinced to work them into your diet? Read below for some reasons why you should make these a part of your balanced diet...

1. A great pick-me-up when you're feeling sluggish. Cucumbers contain B vitamins which can give you energy. Instead of a sugary beverage or vending machine Frankenfood, pick up a slice!

2. Cucumbers are 95% water, keeping you hydrated and feeling full. They also contain most of the vitamins the body needs on a daily basis. Just make sure to keep the skin on for the vitamin C.

3. Cucumbers have enough sugar, B vitamins and electrolytes to replace important nutrients lost from too much partying. Yes, that's right - cucumbers can cure your lingering St. Patrick's Day hangover!

4. With high water content, cucumbers are great for losing weight and staying hydrated. The dietary fiber in cucumbers helps rid the body of toxins and aids in digestion.

Throw together the recipe below in about 5 minutes for a healthy dose of this miracle vegetable! And, weighing in at about 100 calories per 1 cup serving, you can go back for seconds.

Tangy Cucumber Salad
2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (try to get organic - cucumbers are heavily treated with pesticides)
1/2 large red onion, thinly sliced
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, cut in half
3 T yogurt (I've used low fat and full fat varieties)
1 T vinegar
salt and pepper to taste

Directions:  In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Slice cucumbers and onion very thin; I used a mandolin slicer. Cut tomatoes in half. Add cucumbers, onion, and tomatoes to the yogurt sauce and mix until the sauce is evenly distributed. Serve immediately.