How to Make Salad Exciting!

I have to confess that I never used to be a fan of salads. I hated that they were so healthy but so blah. I only enjoyed them if they were basically fruit, cheese, nuts, and a little lettuce, which negated the benefit of salads providing ample daily veggies.  But I have since conformed and now a luscious loaded salad is simply mouthwatering! I discovered that the they key to a delectable salad is variety, variety, variety!  

1. Incorporate tons of textures: creamy avocado, crunchy almonds or walnuts, crispy jicama or cucumber,  meaty mushrooms, chewy sundried tomatoes, etc.

2. Make a festival of flavors: sweet apples or pears, tangy artichoke hearts or pickled beets (my fav!), salty green olives, etc.

3. Break the rules! Don’t get hung up on what foods work in certain salads, anything goes! Leftover fajitas? Great! chop it up and throw it in! Salads are a great way to clear out the fridge. Do you have some steamed vegetables or garlic quinoa that need eaten? Toss’m in. 

4. Use various cooking methods: add some gourmet deliciousness with flavorful cooking techniques such as grilled pineapple, roasted squash, or sauteed brussel sprouts.

When you mix all kinds of flavors and textures, the variety is what makes it exciting. You will find daily salads are easy and appetizing; and never get stuck in a salad rut again!