Many people turn to salads when trying to put a healthy twist on their diet, but the ingredients you use can make or break this dish. If you have a habit of loading your salad with a bunch of toppings, it might be time to change your ways because many of them aren’t that healthy, starting with these five.
Pasta
Pasta salads experienced a true boom in recent years. Despite being pretty delicious, keep in mind they’re usually packed with empty calories and carbs.
Creamy Dressings
Creamy salad dressings, such as ranch and Caesar, also won’t do your salad any good since they contain a significant amount of unhealthy fats and added sugars.
Croutons
Croutons can turn your salad into a crunchy delight, but they’re packed with so much salt that they’re just not worth it. Nuts and seeds can have the same effect, while also being a much healthier alternative.
Cheese
High-fat cheeses like cheddar or blue cheese are a common salad topping, but it’s best to eat them in moderation because they can up your salad’s fat and calorie content.
Fried Foods
Bacon bits and crispy chicken strips can do wonders for the flavor of your salad, but keep in mind they’re usually deep-fried and packed with unhealthy fats.