Salads are not only nutrient-dense but they’re quick and refreshing during the summertime. So, if you’re looking for some summer salad inspiration, here are five salads that aren’t boring.
Taco Salad
This salad is essentially a deconstructed taco. Yum. It typically consists of minced beef, tomatoes, capsicums, salsa, avocado, cheese, black beans and some tortilla chips. The protein from the beef and black beans, combined with the healthy fats in the avocado and the fibre in the veggies make this a well balanced meal that will keep you full.
Here is a taco salad by Lisa Bryan from Downshiftology that looks incredible.
Easy Pasta Salad
A zesty pasta salad is perfect during summer days. Check out this ‘Easy Pasta Salad’ by ‘Love & Lemons’, one of my favourite food blogs. Again, it’s nutritionally well balanced with some protein from the chickpeas, healthy fats from the olive oil and some fibre from the veggies and pasta. You could also bump up the fibre and protein by using whole wheat pasta or a legume pasta (a good option for those who can’t eat gluten).
Easy Quinoa Salad
This ‘Easy Quinoa Salad’ by ‘Eating Bird Food’ is a favourite of mine. Quinoa is a good source of fibre and protein, and even contains all nine essential amino acids. And if you’re new to quinoa, this salad can be a great way of trying it. Again, if you want to bump up the protein further, you could add 1 cup of cooked chickpeas or some grilled chicken.
Pesto Pasta Salad
Another easy pasta salad! This time with a ‘Pesto Pasta Salad’ from fellow Dietitian, Rose Maclean (@dietitianrose). It’s packed full of veggies and protein, and looks delicious.
Epic Summer Salad
I found this ‘Epic Summer Salad’ on BBC Good Food awhile ago and immediately added it to my list of recipes to try. Anything that includes mango, I’m in. This salad is also nutritionally well balanced with black beans for protein; avocado and olive oil for healthy fats; and a whole lot of veg and fruit for fibre.
I hope this has inspired you to add some summer salads into your week! Enjoy ☺️
P.S. If you’re looking for another easy summer go-to meal or snack, check out my zucchini slice.
Talk soon,
Chanté x
