A few simple additions to your daily salad could make all the difference. Try adding protein, a bit of crunch or a touch of sweetness to take your salad to a new level of deliciousness.
EGGS
Eaten boiled, poached, scrambled or in a frittata, the humble egg is a great source of nutrients! They are packed with complete proteins, which are essential for many physiological functions. These proteins contain all of the nine essential amino acids that the body can’t produce naturally, and are also loaded with and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin D, iodine, iron, and folate. Pack a hard-boiled egg in your lunch a couple of times a week to reap the benefits of this little super food.
SUNFLOWER SEEDS
Sunflower seeds are a perfect snack to keep in your bag, on your desk, and in the pantry. They are great on their own but are also the perfect addition to salads, muffins, bread, or breakfast bowls. Sunflower seeds may be small but they pack a punch in terms of nutritional benefits. These unassuming pods are a great source of dietary fibre, are high in protein, complex carbohydrates, vitamin B, vitamin E, copper, iron, and folate.
BEETROOT
Beetroot is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory food. A number of studies have found that beetroot juice helps to lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health and athletic performance, as well as reducing the amount of oxygen needed during exercise. Adding beetroot to your lunchtime salad, or pre-making juices to take to work is a great way to incorporate this amazing veggie into your diet.
CAPSICUM
Another awesome and underrated food to add to your lunchbox arsenal is capsicum. Cut some strips of capsicum for a snack throughout the day, add them to a salad or roast some in the oven for dinner. Despite being a naturally sweet-tasting vegetable, it is low in calories, super high in vitamin C and is a great source of vitamin A. These powerful nutrients promote healthy eye, bone and skin health. Capsicum also possesses strong anti-inflammatory qualities, further preventing illness and disease.