I get many comments from clients telling me that they don’t know how to add variety, spice and excitement to their salads as they continue to have the same thing over and over again: iceberg lettuce, cucumber, maybe a less-than-ripe tomato wedge or two and a generic house dressing on the side of their protein food.

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 fibre), but why not use fresh herbs like basil, chives and coriander. What I am saying is get creative with your vegetables! Throw in sliced roasted peppers, stir fried broccoli and cauliflower florets, roasted garlic bulbs, shredded carrots, 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 grated parmesan 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- remember to have this alongside a protein food such as chicken or salmon.

Go Nuts!

There is always a need for a good crunch in a salad. Some of my favourite options are sliced almonds, chopped walnuts or pecans. Roast them to really bring out their flavour. What an easy way to add some healthy fat to your lunch or dinner! (Watch your portion intake).

Dress with Less

Balsamic vinegar and olive oil are the way to go. They are light, zesty, flavourful and easy to make. Mix one teaspoon of olive or extra virgin olive oil with two parts balsamic vinegar,
you can use one of the ideas above or a combination — it’s up to you! It is very easy. Go heavy on the non-starchy veggies and as for the rest, a little goes a long way when it comes to flavour.

Enjoy the taste  and the positive health and body effects on flavoursome salads.