The question of what do you put on a salad is often a tricky one to answer. There are a variety of different foods to choose from that are all delicious and healthy. From seeds and fruits to herbs and hard cheeses, there is definitely something for everyone.
Feta cheese
Feta cheese on salad is a delicious, tangy side dish to go with almost any meal. It’s perfect for lunches, dinners, and even office tiffins.
Whether you choose to make the salad with olives or cucumbers, feta is a versatile cheese that adds a unique flavor and texture to any dish. Traditionally made with sheep’s milk, feta is available in a variety of flavors.
Arugula and watermelon pair well with feta and are also a great choice for vegetarians. Watermelon adds a bit of sweetness that mellows the peppery arugula.
While feta has traditionally been sliced, you can also crumble the cheese on top of the salad when serving. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a vegan version of feta. The tangy feta pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables and crisp romaine lettuce.
To make the salad, begin by chopping your vegetables. You can use a variety of ingredients for your Greek salad, such as cucumbers, green peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
Toss your vegetables with a simple dressing. A spritz of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil will add to the flavor of your salad.
For extra flavor, add red onion to your Greek salad. Olives and beets are also welcome additions.
Authentic feta is only produced in Central Mainland Greece, Thrace, and Macedonia. But, if you can’t find it in your area, you can easily substitute other types of cheese.
Hard cheeses
Adding hard cheeses to your salad is a great way to balance out the flavors and add some nutrition. These types of cheeses are rich in calcium, which is important for your bones. They are also tangy and can complement a variety of vegetable combinations.
You can choose from a variety of different types of cheese, and they can all work well in your salad. The key is choosing a cheese that’s right for your particular tastes and preferences.
For example, gouda is a popular cheese that’s usually made from cow’s milk. It’s light golden to yellow in color, and has a sweet flavor. Gouda is usually cut into small cubes.
Camembert is a popular French cheese, and has a sweet and buttery taste. Like other soft cheeses, it’s best eaten at room temperature.
If you’re looking for a cheese that’s a little tangier, look for feta. Feta has a distinct tangy and salty flavor that’s perfect for adding to your salad.
Another option is Swiss cheese. This mild cheese pairs well with a variety of vegetables.
Parmesan is another cheese that’s a good choice for a salad. Known for its nutty flavor, parmesan is a great substitute for mozzarella.
A few other options are ricotta, Monterey Jack, and Havarti. Most of these cheeses are low in fat, making them a good choice for those who are watching their weight.
Canned tuna
Canned tuna on salad is a great way to enjoy this healthy protein. It is packed with omega-3 fatty acids which help keep your heart healthy and contribute to your immune system.
The main components of this recipe are mayonnaise, tuna, cucumbers, celery, and green onions. If you would like to add additional flavor to the dish, you can add other items such as chopped onion or tarragon.
To make this tuna on salad recipe, start by draining the tuna. Draining it of all the excess liquid will keep it fresher. Next, chop the vegetables. You can store them in airtight containers in your refrigerator.
Once the ingredients are sliced, mix them in a medium-large mixing bowl. Stir slowly until fully incorporated. Let the dressing sit for about 30 minutes before serving.
To add additional flavor to the salad, you can add Dijon mustard. This thickens the dressing when mixed rapidly.
If you’re looking to reduce fat, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the mayo. Alternatively, you can use olive oil.
If you are going to freeze your leftover tuna on salad, you can either put it in an airtight container or a tupperware. This will keep it fresh for about three to four days.
Tuna is also available in water-packed cans. These contain three times less fat than their oil-packed counterparts.
When choosing canned tuna, you’ll want to choose a variety that has been sustainably caught. Pole-and-line caught tuna is more sustainable than tuna caught in other methods.
Herbs
Adding flavorful salad toppings is a great way to add excitement to your meal. They can also provide you with extra nutrients.
Nuts, seeds, and dried fruit can make a delicious addition to your salad. These ingredients provide protein, fiber, and unsaturated fat.
Almonds are a great option. A one-ounce serving provides over three grams of fiber and three grams of protein. You can also try walnuts or pecans.
Bell peppers are another popular salad topping. Raw or roasted, they are a colorful and crunchy addition. If you want to add more variety to your salad, you can always try other veggies such as cauliflower or broccoli.
Fresh herbs can also boost the flavor of your salad. Try dill, basil, or cilantro. Add a little salt and pepper and enjoy the fresh taste.
Seafood can also provide a healthy boost to your salad. Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may lower your risk of heart disease.
Tofu can add a lot of protein to your salad. It’s a good choice for people who want to reduce their intake of fats. Also, tofu is a source of vitamin K.
Olives are another nutrient-rich salad topping. The fat in olives is monounsaturated, which can help decrease your risk of heart disease. Similarly, you can make an oil and vinegar dressing to go with your salad.
Dried beans are another great option. You can cook them on their own or mix them with water in a 1-to-2 ratio. When cooking, be sure to rinse them thoroughly. Beans are full of protein and fiber, making them a perfect base for your salad.
Seeds
Seeds on salad are an easy way to add nutrition to your meals. They are packed with minerals, vitamins, and healthy fats. And they add a satisfying crunch to your favorite salads, soups, and other dishes.
They are also a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Toss them on your next salad or a bowl of cereal.
Sunflower seeds are a classic favorite. These crunchy kernels are loaded with protein, calcium, iron, and magnesium. They also provide a healthy dose of unsaturated fats. You can find sunflower seeds in a variety of different forms, including whole, ground, or nut butter.
Pumpkin seeds are also a great option for a salad. Roasted pumpkin seeds are a popular Halloween snack. If you are looking for a more nutritious version, try toasted pumpkin seed pesto. This is a delicious sauce you can serve with pasta, beans, and more.
Sesame seeds are another healthy option. These small but mighty kernels are rich in zinc, magnesium, and antioxidants. Try a few tablespoons on your salad.
Pine nuts are a nutrient-dense food that contains vitamin E and copper. They are also high in niacin, thiamin, and iron. Sprinkle them on a salad or on your toast.
Chia seeds are another trendy, nutrient-packed food. The tiny seeds are available in your local grocery store or health food section. A two-tablespoon serving provides 10 grams of fiber.
Fruits
Fruits to put on salad are an easy way to add some nutrition to your meal. You can even mix different types of fruit together for a salad you’ll love.
A classic fruit salad includes strawberries and mandarin oranges. If you’re looking for a more interesting combination, try blueberries and raspberries.
The best fruits to put on salad are those that are in season. In summer, you can find plenty of fresh strawberries. Other favorites include kiwi, blueberries, and raspberries.
Adding a variety of fresh fruits to your salad is a great way to get in more vitamin C. These fruits also contain fiber. They are low in calories and have antioxidant properties.
For an additional boost of flavor, you can use lime juice. Lime complements fresh fruits perfectly. However, you can also substitute lemon or red wine vinegar for the lime juice.
Another option is to toss a handful of chia seeds into your salad. Chia seeds are a great source of protein and fiber. They are widely available at specialty markets and grocery stores.
Dried fruit can also be used in your salad. Be careful to choose dried fruit that does not contain any added sugars. Also, be sure to soak the fruit in water for at least 30 minutes before mixing it in your salad.
If you’re preparing your fruit salad in advance, keep in mind that some fruits have a tendency to turn brown quickly. To help prevent the browning, you can soak them in a solution of water and lemon juice.