Be Salad Smart

Whether you’re enjoying one as a snack or side dish or as a meal in itself, today’s salads are much more interesting than they used to be. As the main course, a salad can offer healthy amounts of protein and nutrients. Tempting and flavorful ingredients like beans, chicken, eggs, reduced-fat cheese, nuts, and tofu, plus an assortment of fresh vegetables and fruits, combine to make an endless variety of exciting salads.

 

Keep your salads low in fat and calories by using extra-virgin olive oil or non-gmo canola oil, which contain healthy monounsaturated fats. If you use bottled dressings, chose organic and all-natural brands. Instead of full-fat mayonnaise in coleslaw or potato salad, use light mayo or fat-free yogurt—and consider trying a pesto or vinaigrette dressing for a change. For your favorite pasta or rice salads, choose whole-wheat pastas and brown rice to increase fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients.

 

With all these healthy options, no wonder salads keep growing in popularity!