Refreshing Veggie Side Dish

This veggie side dish can be prepared on the spot or ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a quick HEALTHY side dish on a busy week night.  I like to chop all of my veggies ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the fridge (I like to use glass BPA free containers). That way when I am in and out running my three kids around to their various sports and activities all I have to make is the main protein portion of dinner and possibly a grain as well. If preparing ahead, just dish out the portion of veggies you want and drizzle the oil and salt at that time.  The veggies store better and last longer if you wait to put the oil and salt on just prior to eating.   The beauty of this side dish is that it allows you to eat the rainbow. Mixing various colored veggies is the best way to go.     Remember, you need 6-8 servings of veggies every day!  Here's a yummy start. Ingredients: 1-2 Fresh large organic cucumbers (peeled or not) Handful of fresh, organic gourmet tomatoes (all colors) 3 fresh, organic bell peppers (all colors you prefer) Drizzle of organic extra virgin olive oil Dash of Sea Salt (Celtic or Himalayan has minerals, Morton's doesn't) What's in it for you if you are not a typical veggie lover?  Consider the myriad of health benefits these veggies provide.   Bell peppers have carotenoids, provide a broad range of antioxidants and vitamin C.   Cucumbers contain lignans that help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease as well as several types of cancer.   Lastly, tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant helpful in promoting bone health.  They also promote heart health and lower LDL cholesterol.