Tips for a tasty salad

Start with the base: Look for vibrant greens like spinach, rocket or kale, and don’t be afraid to mix in some crunchy vegetables like romaine or iceberg lettuce, shredded cabbage, or chopped broccoli.

Add a rainbow of colours: Select a range of colourful vegetables for a variety of nutrients and flavours. From tomato, red onion, capsicum, and roasted beetroot, to shredded carrot, sliced cucumber, and purple cabbage. For ideas and inspiration, check out this colourful cabbage slaw.

Include a source of protein: To turn your salad into a filling and satisfying meal, include a quality source of protein like lean beef or lamb, grilled chicken, tofu, or salmon. Feel free to mix in some chickpeas, edamame beans or lentils and pop a boiled egg on top for a protein-packed meal like this Niçoise-ish steak salad. Protein not only adds flavour but also helps keep you feeling fuller for longer.

Mix in some high fibre carbohydrates: For a well-rounded and balanced meal, try adding whole grains like quinoa, brown rice or farro. Starchy vegetables like roast kūmara, pumpkin, potato and sweet corn are another great addition to power up your salad. Check out this grilled steak, kumara and courgette salad.

Add a touch of sweetness: Fresh fruit adds a sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savoury ingredients in your salad. Try sliced pear, summer strawberries, or fresh grapes like this steak salad to really elevate the flavour profile.

Dress it up: A great dressing can really tie all the elements of your salad together. Try a homemade vinaigrette with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey or blitz up a handful of fresh herbs and Greek yoghurt for a green goddess dressing. Check out our best dressing recipes here.

Finish with a crunch: Texture plays a crucial role in making your salad a crowd pleaser. Add a sprinkle of almonds, sunflower seeds, or walnuts for healthy fats like this quinoa carrot salad. For something a bit different, experiment with crispy elements like roasted chickpeas, kumara crisps, or homemade croutons for an irresistible crunch that everyone will enjoy.

Check out these salad recipes for inspiration:

• Niçoise-ish steak salad
• Steak salad with quinoa, grapes and feta cheese
• Grilled steak, kumara and courgette salad
• Quinoa carrot salad

Add a touch of sweetness: Fresh fruit adds a sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savoury ingredients in your salad. Try sliced pear, summer strawberries, or fresh grapes like this steak salad to really elevate the flavour profile.

Dress it up: A great dressing can really tie all the elements of your salad together. Try a homemade vinaigrette with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey or blitz up a handful of fresh herbs and Greek yoghurt for a green goddess dressing. Check out our best dressing recipes here.