Spring time is usually when we take note of any extra weight we’ve packed on over the winter and, fortunately, we can take the necessary corrective measures to get back into shape. Salads are a popular meal and side dish for those looking to lose weight. Even if you aren’t trying to slim down, maintaining your wait is easier when you follow a healthy eating plan. Remember – you don’t need to settle for a plain garden salad every time! You can spice things up by adding just a few delicious, and possibly unusual, ingredients.
Nuts and Berry Salad
Ingredients:

  • Fresh spinach
  • Mixed berries of your choice

Ingredients for the sugar almonds:

  • ½ cup almonds (sliced)
  • 2 Tbsp white sugar
  • 2 Tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon

Ingredients for the dressing:

  • 1 1/8 cup olive oil
  • 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
  • ½ cup sugar
  • ¾ tsp dry mustard
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp poppyseed

Instructions:

  • Prepare your spinach and berries by washing them thoroughly and setting them aside
  • Combine the almonds and sugar in a frying pan and cook on medium to low heat while stirring. When the sugar starts to melt, stir well to coat all the almond slices.
  • Add the cinnamon and remove from heat so that the cinnamon almonds can cool down.
  • To make the dressing, combine all the dressing ingredients in a blender and mix well. Store in a bottle and be sure to give it a good shake before use.
  • Now place your spinach in a bowl, top with berries and then add the nuts.
  • Add dressing and enjoy!

 
Chicken and Pesto Salad
Ingredients:

  • 1 package pasta (bow tie variety)
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup basil pesto
  • ¼ cup Italian salad dressing
  • 1 cup grilled or roasted chicken
  • 2 cups spinach
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • ½ cup feta cheese

Instructions:

  • Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package.
  • Drain the cooked pasta and rinse thoroughly with cold water.
  • Drizzle the oil over the pasta and toss it around.
  • Place your pasta in a serving bowl, stir in the Italian dressing and pesto.
  • Add the rest of the ingredients and toss them around lightly.
  • Add salt and pepper to taste.
  • Refrigerate until chilled before serving. If the pasta seems dry, you can add another dash of olive oil to the salad.

 
Pomegranate quinoa salad
Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups pomegranate seeds
  • ¼ cup green onion (sliced thinly)
  • 2 ½ Tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  • In a medium pot, combine the water and quinoa and cook over a medium high heat until it starts to boil. Turn the heat down to low, put the lid on and cook for 15 minutes.
  • Remove the pan from the stove and allow to cool.
  • Stir in the pomegranate seeds, onion, vinegar, oil, and salt.
  • Feel free to serve on a bed of spinach or as a side item with various meals.