How to Spruce up Bagged Salad Mix

Pre-cut, Pre-washed green salad mixes are everywhere! One benefit to having greens offered this way is that it encourages people to add a side salad to every meal! If you are bored with a regular bag salad and want to dazzle it up a bit, here are a few options.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A bag of pre-cut, pre-washed salad mix
• other items as noted

1. Option 1: Add the goods...
   
   Although it is healthy as is, for a little more substance, chop and add a few other vegetables to your salad. Cubed cucumbers, tomatoes and carrots will bulk up the bagged stuff and can become an entire meal. Get creative and add vegetables (or fruits) of your choice. Make a double mixture and save some for lunch the next day. You can also get festive by adding cranberries and walnuts for a holiday dinner salad - there are many interesting dressings out there to complement whatever creation you come up with!

2. Option 2: Mix the mixes...
   
   Why just stick with a mix of iceburg? There are other green mixtures that are healthier and more interesting. Buy two bags, one of an Italian greens mixture and the other of your typical salad. This will add more texture (and fiber) to your dish.

3. Option 3: Take it from Popeye...
   
   Ever eat bagged fresh, raw spinach as your dinner salad? Raw Spinach is full of vitamins and is delicious as well. Add some sliced red onion, goat cheese and a handful of pine nuts and top with an organic balsamic blend - instant health food. This salad is also excellent topped with grilled shrimp or chicken as an entree.

Tips & Warnings

• Always be sure your greens are washed before serving. Some bagged choices note pre washing, and others do not - better safe than sorry!
• Always be aware of food allergies when serving salads (especially those with shrimp or nuts) to guests!