Creative Ideas for Your Next Salad

The 4th week of July is designated as National Salad Week! What better time than now to whip out that salad bowl and your salad tongs?  Salads are light and refreshing, so it’s no wonder that National Salad Week is celebrated at the end of July.  There are many combinations and possibilities when you are creating a satisfying salad.  There is no reason to think of a salad as tasteless, plain or boring.

Let’s review some great summer salad ideas to keep you and your family healthy, happy, and satisfied during these warm summer months!

We will start with the traditional salad. To build your salad, start with your favorite greens. Dark leafy greens are more nutritious than traditional iceberg lettuce.  Try to choose greens such as spinach, arugula or kale. Keep your salads looking scrumptious by enhancing eye appeal as well as nutrient value with a variety of nutrient dense toppers.  Add an array of colorful vegetables, and even fruit to your salad. Apples, pears, oranges, and berries all make great salad toppers when complemented with the right ingredients. Don’t forget about fresh herbs!  Basil, dill, cilantro, chives, and parsley all kick up the flavor in a traditional salad. Lastly, try adding some whole grains or protein to your salad. Be sure to stick to lean meats.  Nuts and soy products are a great way to add some satisfying protein for all you vegetarians!

Let’s not forget to discuss dressing.  Dress, don’t drown your salad!  Adding too much dressing not only takes away from the wonderful flavors that you have created, but it will also drastically increase the calorie content of your otherwise healthy salad.  For a healthier option, create your own dressing.  Oil and vinegar is an easy and healthy way to dress your salad.  Throw in some fresh herbs and pepper and voila, a delicious and nutritious dressing!

Now, let’s think outside the box.  Don’t limit your salad to the traditional types! What about transforming pasta and potato salads to their healthier versions?  Try making potato salad with lemon juice and oil instead of using mayonnaise. Incorporate eggs, and herbs such as dill for enhanced flavor. Don’t forget celery for added crunch and texture!  When it comes to pasta salad, lightly dress your whole grain pasta with light Italian dressing.  There is no need to add a whole lot of dressing because you can enhance flavor with other healthy ingredients. Try incorporating Kalamata olives and basil for a palate pleaser.

Are you a tuna fish fan?  Instead of using mayonnaise, try substituting with avocado! Avocado is a healthy fat that will provide the same texture as your mayonnaise.  Bean salads are also a great summer choice! Beans are filled with protein and fiber.  Better yet, there are so many different kinds of beans and combinations you can create.

I hope I got your creative wheels turning! As you can see, there are so many different types of combinations and ideas to consider when creating your masterpiece. The possibilities are virtually endless! So, at your next get-together, impress your friends and create a tasteful and healthy salad.

Your turn to take action: What glorious summer salad will you create?

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