The decision to live a Wellness lifestyle opens the doors to many exciting adventures and experiences. Your grocery store’s produce section has dozens of foods that you’ve probably never eaten. These fruits and vegetables are loaded with nutrients. The richer the color of the produce, the higher the nutritional content.

According to the National Institution of Health (NIH), men should have 7 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Women and teens should consume 5 to 7, and children should consume 5 a day. I discovered that eating a salad as a meal can be a deliciously quick way to get the servings of produce your body needs. You’re probably thinking that this must be a huge salad. Not really, one serving of produce is not as large as you may think. Check this out:

• A medium-sized piece of fruit is one serving. (orange, apple or a banana)
• 1 cup of salad greens is a serving. (lettuce, spinach..)
• ˝ cup of cooked vegetables is a serving.
• Ľ cup of dried fruit is a serving.
• ˝ cup of cut-up fruits or vegetables is a serving.

Let your imagination run wild. Salads are much more than iceberg, tomatoes and salad dressings. Create exciting salad combinations with a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts and grains that you never tried.  You’ll be surprised at the flavor and the satisfaction you’ll experience. Try making your own salad dressings. In most cases you probably already have the ingredients at home and you can create some flavorful dressings that will really enhance your salad meal.

I’ve created 4 unique and tasty salads that I’m certain you’ll enjoy. They’re easy and they’re delicious. 

Until next time, Stay Well!!