Salads and Salad Dressings

[rhiannon0320]

Okay ladies, I know we have some fabulous cooks on here and I need your help and suggestions. :D

Hubs an I are trying to eat better and one thing we want to incorporate into our diet is salads. I have never been a big salad person until recently, and even then, I never really eat them. Currently I have been using romaine, toss on some chopped up green pepper, a hard boiled egg, some cucumber, and a sprinkle of cheese with ranch dressing. I know I'll get sick of that combo quick. :p

So my question to you gals is; what are your favorite salads and salad dressings? I am not opposed to making salad dressings, but store bought suggestions are welcome too. Hit me with your best...salad!

[kobfield2007]

U can't go wrong with salad. All the greens are good for you.

I usually just do lettuce and spinach. Or if I wanna be "richer" I get the Spring Mix.

I just use low-fat cheese and either Italian dressing or my high fat mayo-sugar dressing. LOL

[ShaynaRae]

We always buy the bag of "Cesar Salad" and it has everything in it... including the dressing.

[littlecountrychick]

spinach with mushrooms, red onion and poppyseed dressing=amazing

i also make a mozzarella/tomato salad with italian or greek dressing

spinach, roasted walnuts, strawberries, mango vinegrette

cucumber, red onion, tomato, dill, italian dressing
i have a salad addiction lol

[maeberha]

Orange Salad with Green Beans (http://instoresnow.walmart.com/food-recipe_ektid28016.aspx)

[kirstenh]

To add flavor and variety to salads, you can add grape or cherry tomatos. Cheese Nips add a nice, cheesy crunch, too.

[littlecountrychick]

i make my own croutons by chopping bread up in squares and drizzling with oil and seasoning...bake til golden

[SoonToBeWed]

I use either oil & vinegar or a vinegrette. I used use honey mustard.

[mpashon]

Not all salads are healthy. Sometimes, depending on what you are using.. it may have more calories than you think.

I use iceberg lettuce and spinach.. and Romaine

In the salad: carrots, cucumber, zuchini, mushrooms, green pepper, celery, tomatoes, black olives, boiled eggs...

And I usually have some cut chicken breast on top.

Also salad dressing are full of calories so try not to over do it.

I usually use non-fat or low fat Ranch dressing.

Maybe add some croutons on top..:)

[mpashon]

i make my own croutons by chopping bread up in squares and drizzling with oil and seasoning...bake til golden


that's a great idea.

You defintly can save some money here:)

[rhiannon0320]

Not all salads are healthy. Sometimes, depending on what you are using.. it may have more calories than you think.

Yeah, I know not all are good and that's why I am trying to stay away from the ranch dressing and heavy toppings, but since I used to HATE salads, I have no idea what to try. I also stay away from iceberg since it doesn't do much vitamin wise.

All suggestions so far sound great though, keep 'em coming! :D Though I should mention that Corey is allergic to walnuts and pecans and neither of us are big tomato fans. Otherwise, we're up for anything.

[MelissaandJames]

FYI: With some of the dressing yous should use the regular....the low fat or "healthier" options usually contain more sugar and sugar is what gives you belly fat. So be sure to check the sugar content if you are trying to lose weight. "healthier" is not always Healthy, lol.

[nmbrumbelow]

When I make salads I go veggie crazy. I usually get the green mix and spinach and mix them. I chop up green peppers, carrots, squash, zuccinni(sp?), cucumber, tomatoes, brocolli, califlower, celery and a bit of chopped grilled chicken. Then a fat free italian or ranch.
Or
We take all our favorites, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, celery, carrot, squash, pepper, ect chop to bite size and lightly coat with a light zesty italian dressing, yummy!

[littlecountrychick]

snap peas, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, mozza or feta cheese and green pepper with sundried tomato dressing is another delicious one

[kirstenh]

Italian and homemade vinaigrette are the lowest-cal dressings.

[nmbrumbelow]

I hope the link works because I'm using my phone but I just saw this on tv and tought of you. Its salad ideas, nutrition info, ect.
http://www.better.tv/videos/m/28296760/healthy-salad.htm#q=salad

[ShaynaRae]

I just got an email and checked out the link (http://www.thenest.com/Recipes/Salad/results.aspx?type=7&recipe_type=Salad&cm_ven=Responsys&cm_cat=Nest&cm_pla=Newsletter&cm_ite=January%2013,%202010)... it's 50 healthy salad idea.