47 Healthy Salad Recipes That Are Seriously Delicious and Filling
Give your lunch a nutritious boost with these tasty greens.
If you're looking to incorporate more produce into your eating routine, healthy salads are here for you. "Salads can be a great vehicle for getting more vegetables in your diet," says Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., C.D.N., director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab.
That said, not all salads are healthy. Sassos explains, "The healthiest salads have a base of nutrient-dense greens and a vibrant assortment of colorful and crunchy vegetables. Experiment with different types of salad greens to mix with your usual lettuce for extra nutrition (dark, leafy green vegetables — like kale, arugula and spinach — tend to be the most nutrient-rich). Don't forget to include a source of lean protein like salmon or chicken and some type of healthy fat like avocado or nuts to keep you satisfied. When it comes to dressing, don't overdo it with high-fat and high-calorie creamy options. Let the bright flavors of the veggies shine through and opt for healthy salad dressings, like a refreshing vinaigrette, instead."
Need some inspiration? We rounded up the most delicious, nutritious salad recipes created in the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen. Some of these are smaller side salads, ideal for pairing with a protein or serving alongside a slice of pizza or bowl of healthy pasta — whereas others are complete meals, featuring a good balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats and fit into a variety of diets.
Getting hungry? Hit up the farmers' market (or your supermarket's produce section), grab a salad spinner and get ready to toss together something incredible.
Trish (she/her) is the deputy food editor at Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things food, from cooking trends and delicious recipes to top-tested kitchen products and grocery finds. She has more than a decade of experience writing about food for GH, Women’s Health, Prevention, Redbook, Woman’s Day, The Daily Meal and Food Network. When she’s not at the supermarket or trying out a new recipe, you can find her at the beach, in her backyard or on the couch — typically with a glass of wine in hand.
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