I have been salad crazed lately. Starting as early as 10am, I will begin day dreaming about the different flavors and ingredients that I can mix and match for the perfect summer salad. There is something about the warm weather that makes me crave a meal that is bright, light, and full of flavor.
For lunch I will frequent the Oliver's Market (similar to a Whole Foods, but locally owned) salad bar and create delicious summer salads that just as fun to create as they are to eat. Below I have listed my three favorites, so that you can recreate them too! Pro tip: print out this post so that you can take it with you to the salad bar!
Blue on BlueAll of the salads listed here are my favorites; however this one is by far the most stunning. With blueberries, beets, dried cranberries, and bright orange carrots, this is a jewel of a salad. Salad base: SpinachAdd:
- shredded carrots
- shredded beets
- fresh blueberries
- dried cranberries
- blue cheese crumbles
- candied walnut
- sunflower seeds
- blue cheese dressing
- hard boiled egg (cut into wedges or slices)
- herb-seasoned croutons
- Parmesan cheese
- Caesar salad dressing (if your salad bar offers a vegan option, give it a try!)
This salad is so full of flavor! It is more earthy in flavor, with a Mediterranean flare. made with green onions, feta cheese, and artichoke hearts, you will quickly see why this is a favorite of mine. With the sneaky addition of tofu, this salad bar salad is packed with protein and fiber, it will keep you full until dinner.Salad base: spring leaf mixAdd:
- garbanzo beans (chick peas)
- artichoke hearts
- marinated mushrooms, halved
- cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
- tofu crumbles
- green onions, chopped
- feta cheese
- herb vinegrette dressing