In the craziness that has consumed us recently, I have become used to a quick but healthy lunch … salad. Salads can be SO boring, especially if you’re having them every. single. day. So, here are a few that I have enjoyed as of late …

SPINACH SALAD w/ STRAWBERRIES

• fresh spinach (the farm has had the most amazing spinach this year!)
• fresh ripe strawberries
• candied pecans (easy to make, store bought fine too)
• parmesan balsamic vinaigrette (recipe below)

This is my favorite salad to curb a sweet tooth!

HEARTY SPINACH SALAD

• fresh spinach
• sliced mushrooms
• turkey bacon (or regular bacon if you wish)
• croutons if you desire

This is great for a heartier appetite!

PARMESAN BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE

• 2T balsamic vinegar
• 1T olive oil
• 1T fresh squeezed lemon juice
• 1 small garlic clove, crushed
• 3T finely grated parmesan cheese (I like to use my micro-plane to get it super-fine)

Shake contents together in jar. Refrigerate any left0vers.

CARROT, RADISH, and BEET SALAD

• 1/4c julienned carrots
• 1/4c julienned radishes (red or daikon)
• 1/4c julienned beets
• 1T apple cider vinegar

Toss veggies with vinegar and let sit for at least 30 mins. Serve scoop over mixed greens or bed of your favorite lettuce.

Chicken Salad

My mom made a similar chicken salad not too long ago, but had no recipe or measurements.  While mine isn’t exact, it is a good starting place to add to/take away from.  And oh so delicious!

Ingredients:

• 1 rotisserie chicken
• 1/2c mayonnaise [diary free option: vegan-aise]
• 1/4c half & half [dairy free option: coconut milk]
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 apple chopped
• 2-3 tbsp chopped celery
• 2-3 tbsp chopped pecans/walnuts
• handful craisins
• salt & pepper to taste

Directions

Pull chicken off bone and chop into bite-size chunks.  Place chicken, celery, apple, nuts, and craisins in bowl.  In separate bowl, whisk together mayo, half & half, and lemon juice.  Pour mayo mixture over chicken mixture and stir together.  Add salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate.

Great by itself, over lettuce, or in a sandwich!