How to Make Your Salad More Flavorful
We’ve all heard how beneficial eating whole, natural foods can be, and salads are one of the easiest and most delicious ways to get multiple daily servings of fruits and veggies. On the other hand, if you stick with the same salad recipe, it’s easy to get bored. So what can you do to add some flavor and spice up your salad to keep you motivated to eat healthy and fresh? Here are a few ways to take your salad from bland to grand.
Salad Toppers You Have to Try
Salad toppers are an easy way to add flavor and texture to any salad, but if you’re watching your calories, be on the lookout for nutritional information, since pre-packaged salad toppers can add preservatives and calories you don’t want if you’re aiming for a healthy diet. Here are some healthier salad toppers to try.
Pecans, Almonds, or Walnuts
Pecans, almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, pine nuts, and other naturally-derived sources of healthy fat and protein are not only delicious, they’re nutritious! Nuts add crunch and texture and while also balancing out the sweetness of fruits such as dried cranberries.
Hickory-Smoked Bacon
Hickory-smoked bacon adds a punch of flavor and protein to your greens. Sprinkle a few bits of hickory-smoked bacon on your salads for a hint of hearty goodness that will help you stay full for longer.
Pick Your Protein
In addition to adding texture and variety to your salads, protein can help you feel full faster, and it will help your body heal from the inside out after a workout or yoga session. Protein is vital for healthy growth and function, and it’s essential to incorporate it into your meal plan.
Why is protein important?
A common misconception is that protein is only beneficial if you’re attempting to gain muscle mass, but on the contrary, protein is a vital nutrient essential for the rebuilding or production of bones, tissues, cartilage, skin cells and the repair of damaged nails and hair. Naturally-derived sources of protein are by far the healthiest way to add more protein to your diet. Here are a few ways to add protein to your salad.
Chicken or Tuna Salad
Chicken and tuna are both healthy sources of protein, and chicken or tuna salad is a great way to add a healthy dose of flavor and protein to any dish. From celery, edamame, pecans, and more, there are plenty of ways to spice up your chicken or tuna salad with healthy ingredients. If you’re really looking for flavor that packs a punch, try adding new spices to your chicken or tuna salad, such as a bit of paprika or curry spices. Keeping your taste buds intrigued with unique flavor combos is also a great way to break the cycle of bland and boring salads.
Pimento Cheese
Cheese is a great source of protein, and pimento cheese is delicious. While it may be a distinctly Southern thing, don’t be afraid to try this delicious dish if you’re not already a fan. With just a handful of ingredients - shredded cheese, cream cheese, pimento peppers, and yogurt or mayonnaise, you can create a protein punch that will make a unique yet delicious salad topper.
Egg Salad
Egg salad, like pimento cheese, is full of protein, and adding even a small amount to your salad will provide added nutrients while also creating a unique flavor profile.
Choose Your Cheese
Cheese is another great source of protein, and it adds texture and smoothness which pairs well with crunchy vegetables and leafy greens. Here are a few of the most common varieties of cheese chosen by salad lovers:
- Feta Cheese
- Goat Cheese
- Mozzarella Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese
Mix Things Up
If you’re getting bored with your salad routine, another way to mix things up is to simply experiment with new flavors from various ingredients, salad dressings, and leafy greens. The names of various leafy green varieties are as interesting as the leaves themselves. Spring mixes are typically a combination of:
- Arugula
- Frisee
- Green Mustard
- Green Romaine
- Radicchio
- Red Chard
- Red Mustard
- Red Oak Leaf
- Red Romaine
- Spinach
- Tatsoi
If you feel like experimenting with flavors and textures, consider various types of leafy greens from your local farmers market or produce aisle and create your own combinations which suit your tastes.
Salad Dressing Mixer
Another way to spice up your salad is to experiment with various types of salad dressings. Some are sweet, some are creamy, and others are tart and tangy. If you’re passionate about choosing healthy options, you may even want to invest in an at-home salad dressing mixer which allows you to create healthy vinaigrettes and olive oil-based concoctions that are both quick and easy to create.
Where to Find Healthy Salads in Memphis
If you’re looking for a delicious way to add salads to your meal plan, choosing lunch and dining spots with healthy options is a great way to try new flavors and new combinations. If you’re looking for salads in Memphis, TN or healthy restaurants in Collierville, TN, try your neighborhood Cheffie’s. In addition to delicious salads, we also offer soups and sandwiches you’ll love. Stop by Cheffie’s today to create your own delicious salad from our assortment of ingredients. You’ll enjoy a healthy lunch that’s quick, easy, and affordable!
CHEFFIE’S MENU →