Salads

The beauty of salads is their versatility. Based on the basic salad, here are some potential additions:

• Olives: Black or green olives can add a nice salty and briny flavour. A staple in Mediterranean salads.
• Cheese: Soft cheese like feta or goat cheese for creaminess and tang. For more intense flavour, try blue cheese or gorgonzola. For milder, cubes of mozzarella or slices of halloumi.
• Sweetcorn: Fresh or canned sweetcorn adds a sweet crunch. If using canned, drain and rinse first.
• Beans or legumes: Chickpeas, black beans, or lentils add protein and make the salad more filling.
• Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds add crunch and additional nutrients.
• Grains: Quinoa, bulgur, or couscous add bulk and make the salad more filling.
• Protein: Grilled chicken, tofu, boiled eggs, or tuna add a substantial amount of protein.
• Fruits: Sliced apples, pears, or grapes; dried fruits like cranberries or raisins; or berries add sweetness and variety.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, cilantro, or dill add an additional flavour dimension.

Remember, the key is to balance flavours and textures to create a salad you really enjoy. Happy salad making!