That same-old salad can get real old fast.

Salads may not be your first pick from the menu or your number one meal to prep at home. Yeah, they are easy to make, but they can get boring quickly. But don’t give up your greens just yet! You can still switch up your salad in a small way to make a big change. Here are six ways to transform your salad and help you develop a deeper love for those leafy greens.

Get Your Greens

A typical salad usually consists of some sort of leafy lettuce. Did you know that there are five different types of lettuce? They’re not all the same, and there are lots of options. Figure out your favorites, and top it off with a handful of spinach or kale!

Turn Up the Heat

Believe it or not, adding warm ingredients to a salad can be surprisingly tasty! I love adding a warm boiled egg to my salad. Bacon bits are another great addition to salads, especially if you cook them yourself. Or try adding some grilled chicken or roasted veggies. You won’t be disappointed.

Make It Sweet

To bring out more flavors in your salad, throw in some sweet fruit! This is my go-to option when I want a sweet or tangy flavor in my salad. Strawberries and mandarin oranges are two of my favorite additions. Fruits are an easy way to take your salad to the next level. Apples, grapes and raspberries are a few other delicious options!

Dress It Yourself

There’s a long list of salad dressings out there ranging from Thousand Island to Raspberry Vinaigrette, but have you ever thought of making your own? It’s simple! I prefer to keep it light and easy by starting with olive oil as a base for a vinaigrette. Flavor it with salt, pepper and any herbs of your choice!

Spice It Up

Herbs and spices are game changers for salads. There are so many combinations of herb mixtures that can appeal to anyone. Just start experimenting with flavors you like. Then, add them into your salad to give it a nice twist!

Pick Your Protein

Protein is an essential to a good salad, but it doesn’t have to be the same grilled chicken every time! Try swapping chicken for beef, shrimp, or even beans or nuts! Along with the different types of lettuce, switching up the types of protein can turn your salad around. It makes a major difference in the texture and taste!

Try these steps and variations and enjoy the difference! Your taste buds will thank you.

Be well, Auburn.

Photography: Cat S