Thursday, April 23, 2015

Spring Salad Shakeups


Are mornings as crazy at your house as they are at mine? Holy cow...it seems like I put in a full day before I even leave the house! Lately, my husband and I have been trying trying to adopt a healthier lifestyle. What this means to us is that it's even crazier in the morning as we try to get our "healthy" lunches put together. 

A few weeks ago, Red Gold Tomatoes sent me a "Spring Shake-Up" pack to help me get motivated for the new season. There were, of course, several cans of diced tomatoes, but they also included some great Springtime recipes and a big canning jar so that I could make a little shake-up of my own. Now, I realize I'm a little late to the salad shakeup party...but I am totally hooked!


I actually started experimenting with different salad combinations right after Easter. Hello--leftover eggs and ham? Luckily, I had two jars since my husband was totally on board with having his own to bring to work. 


There are no real rules for making these things, except maybe to keep the salad dressing on the bottom, so nothing gets too soggy. If you like croutons, bring them along separately. Then, just layer your favorite salad fixings or leftovers in the jar. Make it as colorful as possible...all of your co-workers will be jealous! 

I like to use a light ranch or a vinaigrette so that the salad dressing isn't too thick to shake. To help it along, I actually turned the jar upside down for a few minutes. Need an easy recipe? Here you go:

Honey-Balsamic Vinaigrette

A quick and easy salad dressing!

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon coarse ground mustard
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Whisk all the ingredients together until well-blended. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 00 hrs. 05 mins.
Total time: 5 mins.



The best part about these salads is that you can make them up ahead of time using whatever you have on hand. Chicken and bacon? How about a Chicken Club Shake-Up? Leftover steak? A Philly Cheese Steak Shake -Up would make a great meal.

What about Spring inspires you? For some quick and easy recipe inspiration, visit Red Gold Tomatoes ..... While you're there, share with them your own Spring Pinterest Pins for a chance to win a Picnic Basket worth $350! Hurry--this promotion runs from April 22-May 20.

Disclosure: I was given Red Gold Tomato samples for inspiration, but was under no obligation to post. All opinions are my own.



1 comment:

  1. If your late to the party, I missed the boat. I shake fast food salads but this is a wonderful idea! Great tip salad dressing on bottom. I would put cheese right after and veggies that don't get soggy. Can't wait to make this

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