For some of us, the only time that locally grown produce is available is during the summer months. There are so many benefits to eating fruits and vegetables grown close to home. They not only retain more nutrients, but there's less of an environmental impact because minimal energy is used to transport them.
So, as summer draws to a close, why not try some family salad nights? Yes, I did put the word family in there! I realize that not all children eat all kinds of fruits and vegetables, but there must be something they can make a salad out of!
If you make your own salad bar, and separate everyone's favorite toppings, each person can add what they like. The same thing can be done with tacos.
Here are some possible add-ins:
- romaine, or other dark green lettuce
- grape tomatoes
- red peppers
- green peppers
- cucumbers
- beets
- shredded carrots
- walnuts
- pecans
- almonds
- low-fat cheese (I like Cabot 50% reduced fat cheddar)
- black olives
- beans
- Bermuda onion
- ground turkey or beef (taco salad with salsa)
- grilled chicken strips
Strawberries seem to be a popular salad ingredient these days, but I have another favorite: mango! With some mixed baby greens and a little vinaigrette, it's delicious!
Here's another delicious option directly from a relative in Italy:
- 1 head of crisp romaine lettuce (let sit on ice water for a few minutes)
- 1 can light tuna in olive oil
- peeled, diced, and boiled red potatoes (a cup or two) - warm or cold
- vinaigrette dressing
You can find more salad ideas here.
By the way, salad inspired one of my favorite Halloween costumes! My daughter's friend came to a party with a wooden salad bowl on his head, and fake vegetables and lettuce sewn to his clothing. It was such a creative idea. Those homemade costumes are the best, aren't they? You just don't see them too often these days.
Do you have a favorite salad ingredient or recipe? Please feel free to share.
Oh, my email feed didn't go through this morning for some reason. I'm hoping this one goes through tomorrow. So, if you didn't get my email yesterday, please check for two other posts on my blog. Thanks.
