Here Are The Perfect Pairings For All Your Favorite Salad Ingredients

A salad is the ultimate go-to when it comes to healthy eating. Not only are salads good for you, but they are loaded with a variety of ingredients, making them a fun lunch or dinner to whip together in the kitchen. The combinations are endless, which means you never have to get sick of eating the same dish over and over again.

However, because there are so many options, some people get overwhelmed when it comes to deciding what to pair together in their salad. Luckily, we’ve come up with a guide to help you choose what to put in your greens. Use the below suggestions if you’re feeling a bit lost when it comes to the perfect salad pairing.

1. If You Like Avocado

From a nutrient standpoint, avocado pairs well with foods rich in vitamin A, as it can significantly increase absorption of the antioxidant. Avocado does well with:

• Tomatoes
• Sweet Potato
• Mango
• Squash
• Bell Peppers

2. If You Like Kale

Kale salads are quite popular, but they don’t have to be bitter or tasteless if you pair them with the right foods. These foods can add flavor to an otherwise plain salad:

• Lemon
• Parmesan cheese
• Chickpeas
• Almonds
• Quinoa

3. If You Like Beets

Beets can turn any boring salad into one filled with lots of flavor — not to mention nutrients. Since beets are naturally sweet, it’s good to combine them with some more savory options. The root vegetable pairs well with:

• Goat Cheese
• Walnuts
• Fennel
• Apple
• Thyme

4. If You Like Spinach

Like kale, spinach can have a strong or bitter flavor, which means you want your salad additions to help carry the flavor of your salad. Try pairing spinach with:

• Bacon
• Blue Cheese
• Mushrooms
• Garlic
• Potatoes

5. If You Like Chicken

Grilled chicken is always a good choice when it comes to salads, but if you don’t supplement it with some other ingredients, it can seem dry and bland. Add foods with a little texture and moisture, such as:

• Mozzarella cheese
• Avocado
• Red onions
• Honey mustard
• Mixed greens

6. If You Like Eggs

Eggs aren’t just for breakfast, and they can make a great addition to your salad. Whether it’s hard-boiled or poached, you should consider pairing your egg-filled salad with:

• Dill
• Scallions
• Celery
• Romaine
• Lemon

7. If You Like Salmon

Want to spruce up your salad with some healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids? Salmon makes a great choice, but don’t get frustrated trying to decide what to add to your salad. Try these options:

• Tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Lemon
• Arugula
• Thyme

Photo by Jhong Dizon | Photography

Photo by t-dubisme