I’m often asked why I chose to build a brand around salad making. It’s a fair question. On the surface, it’s easy to think that at some point, I’ll run out of healthy bowl recipes and ideas. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Recipes, for one, are merely suggestions. When it comes to salad making, you can never run out of those—or layers.
From veggies and fruits to fats and proteins, the options are endless, creating unlimited layering possibilities. Just check out some of my salad bowl recipes and you’ll see what I mean.
Believe me when I say you can build healthy bowls without ever following a single recipe. While doing so can be a bit of an art, it’s much easier than you might think. Here are some simple tips to help you master the art of layering healthy, tasty and satisfying salad bowls your way.
Develop Your Own Layering System
Building your own healthy bowl is about developing a system, not following recipes. Think about your favorite meals. Chances are, you have a system for making them. Through repetition, those meals have likely improved over time with little extra effort. Salad making works the same way.
Take my healthy taco salad as an example. Like classic Tex-Mex tacos, my recipe includes layers of ground meat, chopped lettuce, shredded cheese, beans and peppers. To step it up, I also add tomato, onion, avocado and corn, topped with a salsa and yogurt-based dressing for extra protein.
You can apply this same layering system to practically any healthy bowl. Start with a base like leafy greens or grains, add a protein and then pile on your favorites—whether more veggies, fruits, good fats or even nuts and seeds.
Treat Salad Making as an Art Form
Salad making itself is an art form—an opportunity for experimentation, self-expression and creativity. Rather than focusing solely on ingredients, think about the salad experience you want to create.
- What types of foods do you normally enjoy?
- Are there certain colors or textures that appeal to you?
- Do you prefer simple combinations or eclectic mixes?
These small considerations can make your bowl feel personal and exciting. Plus, every ingredient adds its own unique nutritional benefits. As I always say, every bowl is an opportunity to build a new layer of wellness—check out my Nutrition Glossary to learn the “why” behind the ingredients I use.
Build for Your Health and Wellness Goals
Your bowl can fuel your health goals, whether you’re aiming to lose weight, manage a condition or simply eat better. To boost nutrients, layer in a variety of leafy greens, non-starchy veggies and low-sugar fruits like berries. These ingredients pack vitamins, antioxidants and fiber to support overall wellness.
That said, balance is key. Don’t skip out on quality proteins and healthy fats. Layers like salmon, avocado or full-fat dressings not only keep you satisfied but also enhance your body’s ability to absorb nutrients. With the right mix of wholesome layers, every bowl becomes a powerful tool for better health.
Step Outside Your Comfort Zone
As “That Salad Lady,” I want to inspire you to approach your healthy bowls with curiosity and a willingness to try new foods. Adding even one or two new ingredients can completely change the flavors and textures, making your bowls more exciting and enjoyable. Start with what you already love and then see if there’s something new to incorporate.
One of my former clients adamantly claimed to hate salads. After a little digging, I learned she wasn’t a fan of leafy greens but loved mixed nuts. With that in mind, I introduced her to my chickpea salad. She loved it! From there, she started experimenting with new types of greens and even found a love for kale. Now, she builds a healthy bowl every day—her way.
Stepping outside your comfort zone can be empowering. The worst that can happen? You find a layer you don’t love. But you might just discover your new favorite.
Put It All Into Practice
I know this is a lot of information but trust me—it’ll all make sense once you start layering. Practice makes perfect, and soon enough, you’ll be building crave-worthy bowls without a second thought. Whether you prefer simple side salads or loaded meal-sized bowls, layering is the key to making them satisfying, filling and uniquely yours.
What will your next masterpiece look like?
Thank you for this. You are truly a blessing!
You bet Brenda and thanks so much:)
Thank you for blessing us with these wonderful recipes. I will have something different to eat for lunch at work. What a true blessing
Awww, thanks so much Fawn and you are most welcome 😊