I had been a salad hater for many years because I did not know about these delicious, fun and healthy salad toppings. Maybe some of them are not oh-so delicious, but they boast amazing health benefits. If you are a salad junkie or a dieter, you might find yourself limited to just a few salad recipes. When your salad is plain and boring and is not giving you what you need, give these healthy salad toppings a try.
1 Chopped walnuts
Walnuts are tasty and healthy. When combined with greens, their benefits are doubled. Walnuts are rich in omega 3 fatty acids that help to improve your brain function, ward off heart disease and protect your bone health. Top your salad with a teaspoon of chopped walnuts and enjoy its unique taste and health benefits.
2 Green peas
Green peas have a bad rap, but they make an incredible salad topping. Green peas will add a sweet taste to your salad and increase your protein and fiber intake. There is a widespread belief that green peas cause bloating. In fact, they are very easy to digest. Unless you add a whole cup to your salad, green peas will be a healthy addition to any salad.
3 Pomegranate seeds
Spruce up your green salad by topping it with pomegranate seeds. They will add a bit of sweetness to your salad and make it healthier. Pomegranate seeds are fortified with vitamins B6, C, K, potassium, phosphorus, folate, protein and fiber, and antioxidants that help to prevent a number of diseases, including heart disease and cancer. They also help to lower blood pressure and relieve arthritis and joint pain.
Read also – 8 Great Reasons to Eat Pomegranates
4 Hemp seeds
Hemp seeds are high in fiber, protein and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which are all good and vital for your body. When combined with greens, vegetables, and fruit, hemp seeds can increase your energy level, relieve menstrual cramps and combat stress and anxiety.Sprinkle a teaspoon over your salad for a deliciously nutty taste.
5 Chia seeds
If hemp seeds are not your favorite ones, consider chia seeds. They are one of the best superfoods that are known for their powerful health benefits. Chia seeds are loaded with essential amino acids, protein, calcium, and antioxidants. These tiny seeds will boost your health and add a bit of a crunch to any salad – be it a green or fruit one.
6 Raisins
Dried fruit like raisins, prunes, and dried apricots make great salad toppings. Although dried fruit are high in calories, they are also high in essential nutrients. Raisins are among the healthiest dried fruit that you can sprinkle over your salad or oatmeal to get the best benefits of both worlds.
7 Bell peppers
Not only will bell peppers add the color and some extra crunch to your green salad, but they will also make your skin glow, curb your sweet tooth and satiate your hunger on fewer calories. Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamins B6 and C, as well as carotenoids that prevent wrinkles and fight acne.Isn’t it a great reason to top your salad with bell pepper strips?
8 Sliced almonds
Sliced almonds are a simple way to add heart-healthy fats and protein to your salad. Opt for raw or roasted almonds and avoid store-bought versions that contain salt or sugar. Since almonds are calorie dense, make sure you do not use too much of them. I usually use one tablespoon of sliced almonds as my salad topping.
9 Raw apple cider vinegar
In many countries, olive oils are very expensive so people use vegetable oil or mayo in their salads. If you are one of them, I have a solution for you. Opt for raw apple cider vinegar and use it instead of your regular vegetable oil, and at the same time, as your salad topping. It will add a tart yet sweet taste to your salad and help you drop pounds and improve your overall health.
10 Raspberries
The last but not least way to jazz up your salad is to top it with fresh raspberries. Actually, any berries make excellent salad toppings, but raspberries are my favorite ones. Sprinkle raspberries over salad for a sweet taste and extra energy boost. Raspberries are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and can brighten any boring salad up in a jiff.
Read also – 6 Reasons We Should All Be Eating More Raspberries
There are many ways to spruce up your green salad, but experimenting with salad toppings is one of the best ones. Salads keep us energized and healthy, and when you add a healthy topping, you get an amazing result. Let us know about your favorite salad toppings in the comments section, please.
