Low Calorie Fruit And Vegetable Salad
A refreshing, low-calorie fruit and vegetable salad featuring crisp greens, sweet strawberries, grapes, and oranges, topped with crunchy almonds and a tangy honey-mustard dressing. Perfect for a light, healthy lunch or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toss torn lettuce, torn spinach, sliced strawberries, white grapes, and Mandarin oranges together in a large bowl.
- Combine salad dressing, orange juice, and poppy seed in a small container and shake well.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting walnuts or pecans for the sliced almonds. If you're looking for a different dressing, a light vinaigrette or yogurt-based dressing can work well. To enhance the flavor, add fresh herbs like mint or basil. Ensure your fruits are ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor in the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It also makes a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues or picnics. Consider serving it alongside dishes like Lucy'S Coleslaw for a colorful spread. For a heartier option, add quinoa or chickpeas for extra protein.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the salad fresh, add the dressing right before serving. If the salad starts to wilt, you can refresh it by tossing it gently with more fresh greens or a splash of citrus juice.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low Calorie Fruit And Vegetable Salad contains roughly 1514 calories, with 50g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 115g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (181% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and iron (138% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 51g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of fruit in this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute seasonal fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness of the dressing according to the fruits you choose to maintain the balance of flavors.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this salad can easily be made vegan. Simply replace the honey-mustard dressing with a vegan alternative or a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing. The fruits and vegetables are all plant-based, making it a perfect choice for vegan recipes.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, consider adding protein sources like grilled chicken, tofu, or beans. You can also incorporate whole grains like quinoa or farro. This will enhance the nutritional value and keep you satisfied for longer.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).