Mmmmm…this simple salad is a favorite. The honey dressing is a perfect compliment to the crunchy apples and pecans.
Leafy Greens are Nutritional Powerhouses
There was a study done years ago by the CDC trying to identify the most nutrient dense fruits and vegetables.
Part of the study focused on the actual vitamins, minerals and antioxidants present in the food and the other part focused on the foods ability to prevent disease.
Out of the 41 fruits and vegetables that made it on the “Powerhouse” list, in the top 15, 13 are leafy greens.
Increase Your Leafy Green Intake
We all would benefit from increasing our intake of leafy greens. I love adding big handfuls of spinach to my smoothies and I love eating salad.
Actually, I take that back. I love eating yummy salads. Over the years, I have had my fair share of bland salads and I don’t love those.
I love delicious salads! This salad I’m sharing today is a delicious salad.
Cheese or Avocados
The original recipe called for cubed cheese. You can absolutely still make it with cubed cheese but I have actually discovered that I prefer it with just the diced avocados.
The avocados make the final product dairy free and also increase the fiber. Plus, avocados are yummy!
I also love to throw some sprouts on top – optional but delicious. Sprouts increase the nutrient density of the salad as well.
Honey Dressing – Sweet and Simple
The dressing on this salad is a delicious honey dressing that I have been making for many, many years. It comes together quickly and can be made days ahead, if needed. A little of this dressing goes a long way.
I love to prepare all the components of this salad ahead of time and make up individual size portions for lunch! It’s awesome!
Apple Pecan Salad
1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped or torn
1 apple, diced
2-3 green onions, sliced
½ cup pecans, chopped
1 avocado, diced
½ cup cheese, diced (optional)
handful of alfalfa sprouts – if desired
Place all the ingredients in a large bowl. Drizzle desired amount of dressing. Toss and serve!
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