The type of edible seaweed used in this dish is called Arame. It is packed with protein, vitamins, iodine and healthy omega 3 fatty acids. This tasty arame seaweed salad is a perfect addition to a macrobiotic diet and was kindly designed for us by bodysoulnutrition.

Iodine is essential for the normal function of the thyroid gland so its important for a healthy metabolism. There is also a growing interest in the role of iodine in cancer prevention and in this regard, it appears to have a particular role in protecting against breast cancer. For more information on how important iodine is for cancer protection, please click here

The idea of seaweed as a food ingredient is a little off-putting to some but it can be used in several ways to create delicious meals. In this salad the arame adds a hint of the flavour of the sea without being strong-tasting and it also brings a lovely texture to the salad. Combined with the Asian flavours of coriander, ginger, lime and sesame seeds, and the sweetness of the carrot, beetroot and cherry tomatoes, the seaweed works so well in creating a fresh and flavourful salad. The salad is also packed with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant phytonutrients that have many roles in protecting the body against cancer.

Ingredients of this arame seaweed salad

  • 25g arame seaweed (available from supermarkets, Asian stores and health food shops)
  • 2 medium carrots, grated
  • 1 medium beetroots, grated
  • 4 tbsp sesame seeds, lightly toasted
  • 3 spring onions, finely chopped
  • 1 inch piece of ginger, finely grated
  • 1 large handful coriander, chopped
  • 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Dressing – 6 tbsp olive oil, juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste

Serves 2 as a complete meal or 4 as a side salad

Preparation instructions

Soak the seaweed in cold water for 10-15 minutes and then drain. Place the grated carrot and beetroot in a bowl together with the seaweed. Add the ginger, spring onions, cherry tomatoes and sesame seeds and stir. Add the olive oil, lime juice, salt and coriander and give the mixture a final stir before serving.