Whoever said salad is boring doesn’t know how fun it can be to play with salad toppings. From protein-packed ingredients to bursts of flavor and texture, a well-customized salad can excite your taste buds while nourishing your body.

In this blog, we'll be focusing on how to convert your boring salad into a gourmet meal. Let us introduce you to 9 versatile topping options to add flavor, texture, and nutrition to your next salad. 

Protein-Packed Toppings To Keep You Full

Protein is an essential macronutrient responsible for building muscle, managing wear and tear in the body, and more. A good protein source will not only add bulk to your salad but also keep you full for a long time. If made the following way, add flavor and taste, too.

• Roasted chicken or tofu: A classic add-on for boosting protein while keeping it lean is adding roasted chicken or tofu to your salad. Chicken is one option to maximize protein content. The same goes for firm or extra-firm tofu. Cut into thin slices or scramble before pan-roasting.

• Hard-boiled eggs: A nutrient-rich topping that is easy to enjoy on the go is an egg. Rich in protein and healthy fats, they bring substance to your salad while complementing almost any topping combination.

Crunchy Additions for Texture

Now that we have added our favorite protein,  let’s consider options for adding texture combination to our bowl. A crunchy topping is among the five components of a perfect salad.

• Roasted Chickpeas: A crispy and high-protein alternative to the famous salad addon, croutons is roasted chickpeas. They come with additional fiber and complex carbohydrates too.

• ‍Toasted Nuts and Seeds: Another great option for adding crunch, protein, fiber, and loads of micronutrients is adding toasted nuts and seeds like cashews, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.  

Sweet and Tangy Elements for Balance

Now let’s talk about flavor balancing. A savory green salad and protein base could use a sweet and tangy addition to complete the flavor profile of a good salad.

• Dried Cranberries or Raisins: Dried cranberries and raisins pair beautifully with savory greens and creamy dressings. This creates a harmonious and complex flavor profile, making every bite perfect.

• ‍Pickled Vegetables: Pickled onions, beets, carrots or cucumbers bring a bright and tangy kick to the salad that’s both refreshing and bold. These toppings cut through the richness of other ingredients and hence will keep your salad lively and fresh.‍

Fresh Fruits for a Pop of Flavor

Yes, salads don’t have to be just a bowl filled with raw vegetables. Fruits are a great option to make your salad spark with more fresh and organic produce.

• Seasonal Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries add natural sweetness and vibrant color to the salad. They’re an excellent choice to brighten up your greens.

• ‍Citrus Segments: If you love a sour burst in between your savory mouthfuls, you can add a slice of orange or grapefruit. They are a good source of vitamin C which will boost your immunity and skin health too. 

Level Up With Classic Cheese Choices

Let’s take our salad bowl to the next level with indulgent cheese. They add richness and depth to the salad.

• Goat Cheese or Feta: These tangy and creamy cheeses complement greens and fruits alike. Crumbled goat cheese and feta add a luxurious texture to Mediterranean-inspired salads salad, transforming a boring meal to a gourmet indulgence.
  
  
• Shaved Parmesan: If you’re craving a  classic Caesar, shaved Parmesan is the natural choice. Its salty, nutty notes tie the dish together beautifully. Try an aged variety for a little something extra!

Healthy Grains for Bulk

Do grains in salad seem not to fit? The truth is quite the opposite! Complex carbohydrates will make your greens and protein-based salad a balanced meal. It will make it heartier and more filling.

• Quinoa or Farro: Quinoa and farro are nutrient-rich grains that offer a chewy texture, complementing fresh vegetables and proteins while also providing a hearty base for other toppings.

• ‍Wild Rice: Wild rice transforms any salad into a satisfying meal with its earthy flavor and substantial texture. 

Bring balance to your bowl with delicious grains!

Protein-Rich Legumes for Vegetarians

If you’re a vegan, there are plenty of plant-based protein options that fit perfectly as salad toppings

• Lentils: Lentils are a fiber- and protein-packed addition that’s perfect for plant-based eaters. Their hearty texture pairs well with fresh and crunchy veggies and tangy and creamy dressings.
  
  
• Edamame: Bright, fresh, and nutrient-dense, edamame is a vibrant addition to a salad bowl. You can toss them in for a pop of green and a satisfying bite, of course, not forgetting about the load of macro and micronutrients they offer.‍

Flavorful Garnishes to Finish It Off

The finishing touches are always the most satisfying step. And what is a better way to make it more satisfying than adding a bunch of fresh and flavorful herbs?

• Microgreens or Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and dill elevate the salad with their aromatic flavors. A sprinkle of these microgreens adds both a delicate crunch and a nutritional boost to the salad.
  
  
• Sprouts: Sprouts, the superfood, can not be forgotten when talking about salads. From alfalfa to mung bean, sprouts are a light and crunchy topping that enhances the overall texture of the salad.

Creative Dressings to Tie It Together

No salad is complete without a great dressing.

• Tahini or Yogurt-Based Dressings: For a creamy, nutrient-rich dressing without the heaviness, tahini or yogurt-based options are the way to go. They complement both savory and sweet toppings. You can get store-bought tahini or whip up your own tahini in minutes.
  
  
• Homemade Vinaigrettes: Simple blends of olive oil, vinegar, and fresh herbs, this easy homemade vinaigrette can elevate your salad in less than a minute of preparation. Experiment with different ratios and ingredients to find your perfect match. There are different types of vinaigrettes based on herbs and the complexity of the recipe. 

Whether you’re seeking the best salad toppings for a gourmet flair or exploring healthy bowl ingredients to make your meal more satisfying, the possibilities are endless. Experiment with toppings to make salads exciting and satisfying!

 At Forage Kitchen, we’re passionate about offering fresh ingredients and innovative ideas to inspire your next bowl. Visit us to discover fresh toppings for your salad bowl and build your own bowl for your next lunch or dinner!