*In case you have time, toasting the nuts is a good way to step up the flavors! Add the nuts to a dry skillet and toast for 3 to five minutes over medium warmth, stirring ceaselessly. Instantly take away to a plate. See The way to Toast Pecans, The way to Toast Almonds, or The way to Toast Walnuts. Different variations on the nuts embrace hazelnuts, chopped pistachios, candied pecans, or candied walnuts.

**Cheese is elective however provides a welcome savory distinction. We like feta cheese or goat cheese crumbles. Gorgonzola or Parmesan cheese additionally work. Omit cheese for a vegan salad and use maple syrup within the dressing. 

***Think about including protein to make it a predominant dish! Strive rooster like Parmesan crusted rooster, grilled rooster, or blackened rooster, salmon like baked salmon, pan seared salmon, or grilled salmon, or tofu like baked tofu, crispy tofu, or grilled tofu.

Leftover and make forward ideas: Salads are notoriously suboptimal as leftovers, as they get soggy over time. We prefer to plate particular person salads when serving and easily drizzle the dressing over every plate or bowl. If making upfront, chop the elements and retailer them refrigerated in separate particular person containers. Instantly earlier than serving, enable the dressing to return to room temperature, then plate every salad. 

Different salad dressing choices embrace Poppy Seed Dressing, Strawberry French dressing, or Citrus Salad Dressing.