If you’ve ever struggled to decide what to put in your salad, you’re not alone. While some people argue that salads are little more than “rabbit food”, many nutritional professionals recommend adding in healthy toppings to ensure that your salads are packed with as many proteins, vitamins and minerals as possible.
To build a healthy salad, start with choosing your favorite greens as the base. We recommend adding in kale, spinach leaves, or romaine, which are all full of vitamins A and K. Consider limiting iceberg lettuce, which doesn’t contain as many nutrients as many other leafy greens. Once you’ve decided on your lettuce, throw in some fruits and veggies for a little crunch! If you’re on-the-go and short on time, you can even consider adding some freeze dried Crispy Tangerines to top off a delicious salad.
Don’t forget to include some protein, as well! Adding in toppings such as chicken, shrimp, cheese or nuts will help you feel more satisfied when eating your salad, and will make you feel fuller for a longer period of time. Finish off your culinary creation with about 2 tablespoons of your favorite dressing. We suggest making your own dressing that’s free of preservatives and artificial ingredients, or using oil and vinegar. A little freshly squeezed orange or lemon is always delicious as well – and gives you an extra dose of vitamin C!
Check out the infographic from Produce for Kids below, which you can print out at home to help you build your own healthy salad for you and your kids. Be sure to check out their website for more tips and tricks to help you pack a healthy and delicious lunch every day of the week!
Click for Printable Infographic
