How To Make A Salad Without Lettuce

Research shows one of the best times to begin a new health regimen is at the change of a season. It resets the mind to a fresh start, so with the kids back in school and the fall season just around the corner, we’re looking for creative ways to eat healthy. Many Pawleys Island restaurants offer tasty salads loaded with creative ingredients, but if you want to mimic those flavors at home, you may not have the “house” dressing or now out-of-season veggies.

We’re exploring a new way to look at a classic health food. Salads without lettuce can be just as filling and easy to make. Forget the bagged lettuce and opt for one of these tasty replacements.

Salad Without Lettuce Ideas

Non-starchy vegetables should be at the center of your salad. Since we’re quitting the lettuce habit, look for these vegetables at your local Pawleys Island farmers market or produce stand:

• Spiralized veggies: Carrots, cucumbers and zucchini can all create a salad base. Grab a grater or spiralizer to create crispy curls that easily replace lettuce.
• Broccoli slaw: An easy way to create a salad without lettuce is to begin with a bag (or create your own) of broccoli slaw. The slaw is typically dry, so have your favorite dressing or oil and vinegar on hand to mix in before adding your other ingredients.
• Diced veggies: Build a salad bed of the ingredients you would typically use on top of lettuce. Fresh cucumbers, onions, peppers, and tomatoes can be diced into a mixed veggie salad. Adding roasted corn or fresh jalapeños give it a great fall flavor. Create your own cilantro lime dressing or toss in a tablespoon of southwest ranch.
• Quinoa: When you need a real meal, your salad without lettuce should contain quinoa. Start with the grain at the bottom of the bowl and top with complimentary flavors like baby heirloom tomatoes, chickpeas, chopped asparagus and sliced zucchini (try it grilled for added flavor).

Don’t forget fruit can make for an excellent side salad. Living along the South Carolina coast means we still have warm days ahead and can often find fresh fruit readily available. Watermelon and berries are the best for creating low-calorie, flavorful fruit salads. Throw thick slices of watermelon or pineapple on the grill for a caramelized flavor that can be enjoyed on a salad or as a side with protein.

Pawleys Island Restaurant-Style Salads

Whether you’re making the move to a healthier diet in the fall season, or just want to try some new recipes, these options will breathe life into your menu. Salads without lettuce give you a break from the “normal” health foods but still deliver on nutrients you need from a variety of vegetables. Pair these ideas with lean meats or fresh seafood and you have a Pawleys Island restaurant style salad that’s as equally filling as it is delicious.

The Chive Blossom lunch and dinner menus feature unique ways to cook fresh vegetables and incorporate unexpected ingredients into salads and slaws. Stop by and have a bite on our courtyard.