Dress Up Your Salad

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    Do you have trouble getting yourself to sit down and eat a salad for lunch or dinner because it is too plain or not filling enough? I really use to struggle with that and did not look forward to the days that I brought a salad for lunch. But then I realized that it's all about what I am putting on the lettuce. So if I wanted to make a salad that I was excited about eating and was fulfilling, I just needed to start putting toppings on it that I really enjoy. 

    You might be thinking, well then what is the point of the salad if I am going to put all these other toppings on it that would make it "unhealthy". Your salad can be healthy and still be fun and enjoyable. You just need to be smart about your toppings. Here are some suggestions to make your salad more enjoyable and satisfying:

Add a protein: Chicken, turkey, ham, egg, cheese, turkey bacon, tofu, or beans
Add extra veggies: Tomatoes, carrots, or broccoli
Add healthy fats: avocado, nuts/seeds, or use olive oil dressing
Add fruits: dried cranberries, strawberries, apples, or grapes
Add tortilla chips for an extra crunch
Dressings: You can still use your favorite dressing, but try drizzling it over the salad instead of drenching it in it or make a homemade dressing!

Try this recipe for a delicious fall themed salad! You can adjust the ingredients as desired. 

Ingredients:
  • 2 1/2 cup lightly packed spinach or spring mix
  • 1/2 cup grilled chicken breast, cubed
  • 1/2 cup apple, cubed
  • 1/2 cup red seedless grapes, sliced in half
  • 1 stalk celery, sliced
  • 1 tbsp red onion, finely diced
  • 1/3 cup candied walnuts
    Apple cider vinaigrette:
  • 1/2 shallot, minced
  • 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp white whine vinegar
  • 1 tsp dijon mustard
  • 2 Tbsp honey or agave
  • 2 Tbsp applesauce
  • 1/4 cup canola oil
  • pinch of salt and pepper
Directions:
1. Add greens to a large dinner plate or salad bowl. Top with all toppings
2. To make dressing, combine all ingredients together. Drizzle on top of salad. 

I hope that this post provides different ideas for your next salad, to make it much more enjoyable!

-AM




References:
Image: https://downshiftology.com/recipes/cobb-salad/
Recipe: https://lifemadesimplebakes.com/chicken-apple-walnut-salad/



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