Salads

Zucchini is more than a ubiquitous plant that grows out of control in summer. Along with other summer squashes like yellow crookneck and pattypan, it’s a symbol of Mediterranean cooking. The tender textures and light flavors are inextricably linked to summer and sun.

This beautiful winter salad combines tart pomegranate with tangy citrus, rich avocado, and deep-dark leafy greens. Substitute arugula, endive, or baby kale greens for the spinach if you like. For a little extra crunch, sprinkle with a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans.

Packed with 45 varieties of antioxidant flavonoids, kale delivers outstanding amounts of brain-enhancing vitamin K (for memory), vitamin A (for learning), and vitamin C (for mood). The anthocyanins that give the sweet red grapes in this recipe their deep color are phenomenal antioxidants that may also enhance memory. The olive oil’s fat increases the bioavailability of kale’s fat-soluble nutrients.

On its own, balsamic vinegar can lack the acidic pop to make a good vinaigrette. I usually add a little red-wine vinegar to help balance the dressing. This dressing is incredibly versatile. Try using it as a marinade for chicken. 

By massaging the kale, you help break down some of the rigid plant-cell structure, which can be irritating to the gut when eaten raw. This also helps diminish the bitterness and toughness of the leaves.

Enjoy this salad from Danielle Walker!

This spring salad can morph with the seasons: Use cubes of fresh melon or diced tomatoes in the summer, or cubes of roasted squash in the fall or winter. You can also add a cup of diced chicken, smoked ham, or shrimp.

This flavorful grain salad works well as an entrée or a hearty side. For a vegetarian version, substitute some beans and extra veggies.

A chopped salad makes everyone happy, as each bite is full of different flavors and textures. Try to cut everything the same size and use equal amounts of all the vegetables until they are humming in contented harmony — and no one veggie gets to yell too loud. You can double or triple the recipe and store it, undressed, in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least four days.

Change up this classic salad by trying other combinations: dandelion greens with a balsamic and dried-cherry vinaigrette, or arugula with a warm pancetta dressing and shaved Parmesan. For a heartier salad, add diced smoked turkey or chicken, or a crumble of cooked bacon.

A great showcase for fresh seasonal vegetables (you can sub in any you like or happen to have on hand), this recipe is a new take on the classic French salade niçoise. Cook and chill salmon in advance, or use leftover salmon if you prefer.

A nice, bright change for a winter lunch, coconut-infused millet tossed with raisins and peanuts makes a great salad to serve with chicken satay, Asian turkey burgers or stir-fried tofu. You can also spoon it into Boston or Bibb lettuce leaves to make a wrap.

Apples and braised cabbage is the classic flavor pairing that inspired this salad. Traditional mayonnaise is replaced with poppy seed vinaigrette, which adds a great contrast of color and flavor. Full-fat yogurt is also a great substitute for mayo-based coleslaws.

Incredibly versatile, kale varieties can be used interchangeably in most recipes, including these classic, easy preparations from Chef Cary Neff.

Some sample recipes from Heidi Wachter's continued foray into cooking for non-cooks.

This recipe is terrific with a variety of other dressings, including raspberry vinaigrette. To save on preparation time, you can thinly slice or shred the sprouts in a food processor instead of pulling apart individual leaves.

A classic, protein-rich French salad. Top with chopped, toasted nuts for added crunch.

Hearty salads made with grains and beans are a great way to use your pantry. Get creative, and let your palate be your guide. Try experimenting with other grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, and a variety of veggies.