When it comes to summer meals that fuel the body and feed the soul, nothing hits quite like a crisp, protein-packed salad straight from the heart of the Hudson Valley. Whether you’re hitting the gym in Beacon or sunbathing by the stream in Rhinebeck, this vibrant mix of local ingredients brings together bold flavor, clean fuel, and seasonal wellness in every bite.
The Ultimate Summer Salad for Strength & Style: Fresh from Hudson Valley Farmers’ Markets
– By Maxwell Alexander, Bodybuilding and Sports Nutrition Coach
📍 The Body & the Feast – Culinary Wellness Edition
🛒 Grab your copy: The Print Issue on Amazon
🎁 Presented by Alluvion Vacations
Today, I’m dishing out the recipe for my go-to Bodybuilding Summer Salad—a fresh, keto-friendly masterpiece crafted right at the Alluvion Vacations farmhouse with the finest produce from our regional farmer’s markets. Let’s break it down like a circuit set:
💪 Ingredients + Their Power Moves
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Local Organic Arugula
From: Rhinebeck Farmers’ Market
Arugula isn’t just pretty—it’s peppery, anti-inflammatory, and loaded with Vitamin K and nitrates to support healthy blood flow. Perfect for that post-workout vascular pump. -
Cherry Tomatoes
From: Beacon Farmers’ Market
These juicy little flavor bombs are rich in lycopene (a powerful antioxidant) and Vitamin C to help combat workout-induced oxidative stress. Plus, they bring that burst of summer sweetness. -
Cucumbers
From: New Paltz Open Air Market
Hydration is key—and cucumbers are 95% water. Their crunchy texture keeps things refreshing, especially after a hot Hudson Valley hike. -
Red Onion
Sharp, colorful, and rich in quercetin, red onions boost heart health and offer natural antibacterial properties. A zesty kick with detox perks. -
Grilled Chicken Breast
High in lean protein, this muscle-building staple is the core of the salad. Seasoned simply with sea salt, cracked pepper, and a touch of avocado oil before grilling to golden perfection. -
Avocado (optional upgrade)
Packed with healthy fats and fiber, this creamy addition supports joint health and brain function—ideal for recovery days or keto-friendly power meals. -
Toasted Sesame Seeds
These tiny giants are loaded with calcium, magnesium, and healthy fats. Sprinkle generously for crunch and nutrient density. -
Fresh Lemon Wedges
Give it a squeeze! Lemon adds brightness and supports digestion—especially useful if you’re loading up on protein.
🔥 Maxwell’s Body & Feast Summer Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 cups Hudson Valley arugula
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½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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½ cucumber, sliced
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¼ red onion, thinly sliced
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½ avocado, sliced (optional)
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1 grilled chicken breast, sliced
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1 tbsp sesame seeds
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1 wedge fresh lemon
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Sea salt + black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Toss arugula, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion in a large bowl.
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Lay grilled chicken and avocado slices on top.
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Sprinkle sesame seeds and season with salt + pepper.
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Finish with a fresh lemon squeeze.
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Serve chilled with a side of smug satisfaction.
💡 Wellness Tips from Coach Maxwell
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Meal Prep Hack: Grill a few chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in glass containers for the week.
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Keto Power Move: Skip the avocado oil in grilling and just use lemon + salt. That keeps your carbs ultra-low while still delivering clean flavor.
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Farmer’s Market Pro Tip: Shop early on weekends for the freshest pick. Don’t miss the arugula at the Rhinebeck Farmers’ Market—it’s got bite.
🌿 Where to Shop This Summer
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Rhinebeck Farmers’ Market – Sundays, 10am–2pm
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Beacon Farmers’ Market – Sundays, Year-Round
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New Paltz Open Air Market – Sundays, 10am–3pm
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Kingston Farmers’ Market – Saturdays, 9am–1pm
These markets are not just about produce—they’re about culture, community, and nourishing your body with intention.
🖤 Get the Print Edition: A Celebration of Culinary Wellness
Hungry for more?
Snag the Body & the Feast print edition of Hudson Valley Style Magazine featuring recipes, wellness stories, and exclusive local flavor. This isn’t just food—it’s a movement.
→ Get your glossy copy on Amazon
Eat clean, lift heavy, and romanticize your salad.
Because in the Hudson Valley, wellness is always in season.
🏡 Wellness Retreats by Alluvion Vacations
This article is proudly sponsored by Alluvion Vacations—your go-to for luxury wellness retreats across the Hudson Valley and Catskills. Each property features a fully equipped kitchen where you can bring your local farmers market haul to life with nourishing recipes like the Body & Feast Summer Salad. Whether you’re blending up smoothies in Beacon, sautéing local greens in New Paltz, or grilling protein-packed meals on the deck in Rhinebeck, Alluvion’s curated stays invite you to relax, recharge, and cook with intention.
From sunrise yoga to mountain air meal prep, these homes aren’t just escapes—they’re experiences tailored for clean eating, mindful living, and total wellness. Book your next culinary adventure and start creating farm-to-table magic surrounded by nature, design, and peace.
