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Recipes

How To Use Mixed Greens Effectively

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at Hofstra chapter.

As it gets warmer out, people have the urge to go outside and exercise. As a result, they find it easier to eat healthier. One way to maintain your health and stay in shape is to eat mixed greens

Mixed greens, unlike iceberg lettuce, have much more protein and nutrients. There are many ways to create a healthy, yet colorful salad right in your home. All it takes is the right ingredients. Follow these tips and tricks to make the perfect salad that’s right for you. 

Start with Basic Ingredients

popular cuisines chicken vegetable
Michelle Rodriguez

In starting these simple recipes, it is important to note what is being put into the salad to make it extra healthy and delicious. Adding a specific kind of protein (grilled chicken, sausage, pork), along with other vegetables is the key to a great salad. I recommend adding sautéed peppers, mushrooms, or even potatoes. 

How Much Mixed Greens To Use

Photo by Mike Kenneally | Unsplash
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When I first started eating this kind of salad, my go-to portion was a handful of mixed greens. Now, I just eyeball and do a ratio of protein to salad. Having that balance of salad and protein helps make it easier to eat healthy because nobody wants to eat a salad with just greens in it. 

What Kind of Toppings To Choose

Meyer Lemon Pie, by Brooke Lark | Unsplash
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In order to keep this salad healthy, something thing to steer clear of are heavy dressings that contain extra calories. Heavy dressings aren’t necessary to make a great salad. All of the veggies and protein you add in will make your salad delicious.

Top It Off with Cheese and Herbs

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My favorite way to top off salads is with lemon juice and ricotta cheese. I know that may sound strange, but it is a mix of healthy and refreshing. The lemon juice replaces the dressing you would normally put on your salad. Lemon juice is light and has a citrus flavor that ties the salad together. Other options are of course salt and pepper, and a bit of olive oil.

The other additional topping I enjoy is ricotta cheese. Now, there are hundreds of cheeses out there in the world so you can choose anyone you’d like. I like ricotta because it is easy to mix together with the salad and adds great flavor. 

Now, you have a delicious, healthy salad to enjoy!

I am a sophomore majoring in Broadcast Journalism. I am from Long Island, and love being a New Yorker. Food is one of my passions, both cooking and writing. Culture is something that fascinates me and I love how food plays a role in who we are as people.