Ditch the celery stalks — there’s a tastier way to get your greens! Instead of restricting yourself and getting bored quickly, mix up your lunch or dinner routine and try one of these flavorful and inventive salads. The delicious, healthy ingredients will keep you fuller all day long, so romaine calm and dig in!
1. Kale and Quinoa Superfood Salad
The bright and tangy lemon vinaigrette contrasts nicely with the earthy flavors of the leafy veggies in this salad. Plus, edamame and quinoa pack roughly 13 grams of protein. Photo and Recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life by DailyBurn
2. Root Vegetable Salad with Miso Dressing
Simple yet super nutritious, this salad contains a variety of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Beets and miso have powerful detoxifying effects, so this is the perfect lunch choice to refocus your body and palate. Photo and Recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life by DailyBurn
3. Fig, Avocado and Sprout Salad
You’re three ingredients away from this delightful plate of green goodness. Just top it with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of sea salt for a pop of citrus flavor. Bon appétit! Photo: Meredith Gnau /A Grateful Life
4. Gazpacho Shrimp Salad
Enjoy the flavors of the famous Spanish cold soup in this light and spicy salad that packs 27 grams of protein per serving! Healthy, refreshing and ready in just 20 minutes. Photo and Recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life by DailyBurn
5. Blueberry and Butternut Squash Salad
Don’t limit blueberries to your morning muffins; these berries are a great source of vitamins and antioxidants. For a delicious lunch, toss together this hearty salad that fills you up with couscous, butternut squash, blueberries and feta cheese. Photo: The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council
6. Red Grape and Strawberry Coleslaw
Still rich and creamy with none of the fat of other coleslaws, this fruit-filled slaw is a great choice for a side dish. For optimal taste, allow it to sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. Recipe and Photo: Leanne Vogel / Healthful Pursuit
7. Tuscan Orzo Salad
Re-invent pasta salad with a medley of fresh, Tuscan-inspired ingredients that won’t weigh you down. If orzo isn’t your thing, substitute a nutrient-rich grain like quinoa or barley. Recipe and Photo: Emily Miller / Life by DailyBurn
What’s in your signature slimmed-down salad? Share your go-to recipes in the comments below!