Print
I am not a big salad eater. What can I do to make them more appealing?
I’m with you! When I think of salads, I picture those side salads at restaurants. You know the ones: iceberg lettuce, shredded carrots, maybe a less-than-ripe tomato wedge or two and a generic house dressing. BORING! Who would find that appealing?!
Well, I’m here to tell you that you are not alone, and there are inventive ways to make salads more appetizing! Try some of these sure-fire tricks to liven up your everyday salad and have you coming back for more.
Lessen the Lettuce – Don’t worry, I’m not saying to get rid of leafy greens altogether (they’re packed with vitamins & minerals and fiber), but you don’t need a salad of all greens to feel good about what you’re eating. What I am saying is get creative with your vegetables! Throw in sliced bell peppers, broccoli and cauliflower florets, shredded carrots (they aren’t boring with this salad crew), cherry tomatoes, sliced red onions – the list goes on!
Say Cheese – Practice control with this one. Topping a salad with crumbled feta, goat cheese or gorgonzola can take your salad to a whole new level. Simply limit the amount of cheese you use to avoid too much fat and additional calories.
Go Nuts – There is always a need for a good crunch in a salad. Some of my favorite options are sliced almonds, chopped walnuts or pecans. What an easy way to add some healthy fat to your lunch or dinner!
Fruit It Up – I won’t lie, but this one might take you awhile to digest (pun intended). I can’t get enough fruit on my salads! Whatever the season, there is a fruit that you can add. Try cut-up strawberries, mandarin oranges, pear slices, pineapple chunks, or even dried fruits.
Cuisine Themed – Maybe you are in the mood for a Mediterranean salad– sprinkle some chickpeas on your salad. Or go for a Mexican-inspired tostada by including some corn kernels and black beans. These starchy additions can create a flare (just remember portions).
Dress with Less – Vinaigrettes are the way to go. They are light, zesty, flavorful and easy to make.
You can use one of the ideas above or a combination — it’s up to you! All of these together, however, will certainly add calories, which is why it is very important to practice portion control (even with salads). Go heavy on the non-starchy veggies and as for the rest, a little goes a long way when it comes to flavor.
Have a diet question for Pam? Email askpam@ediets.com and check back to see if your question is picked! And if you missed a previous column, click here to see the archive.
Looking for a way to make weight loss easier? With personalized meal plans and fitness routines, eDiets can help! Join now and save 25%!
Email Page
