This tip was written by U of U nutrition intern Emily Barrett.
With the holiday weekend around the corner, try throwing together a hearty grain salad for your Memorial Day BBQ. Combine greens, whole grains, seasonal vegetables, a savory element (such as parmesan, feta, olives, and/or nuts), and a simple balsamic vinaigrette or Dietitians Choice dressing.
Grains
Mix up your whole grains! Try barley, farro, or any gluten free grain such as brown rice, quinoa, millet, or wild rice. Check out the bulk section of your Harmons store to try a new whole grain.
Greens
If you'll be eating your salad immediately, try a variety of greens such as arugula, spinach, or leafy green lettuce. If you need to make the salad ahead of time, kale and cabbage hold up to dressing and time much better than more tender greens. Or pack it Mason jar salad style and mix just before serving
Veggies
Mix up the veggies—try what is on sale or is in season. Favorites include carrots, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, peas, radishes, fennel, avocado, grilled zucchini or asparagus, or leftover roasted veggies such as cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes! Try our Chef Prepared Vegetables if you're in a hurry.
Think Outside the Bowl
Try making your salad into a wrap or sandwich by spreading hummus on a tortilla or whole grain bread.
Click here for a DIY Grain Salad recipe.