Nothing lasts forever.
Change is the only constant in life.
As scary as this can be, it is always true.
Even when it comes to salad.
My Summer Salad Series–the entire month of July dedicated to trying one new salad a day–has finally come to an end. But rather than look back on this time as a sad one, let’s look at all the wonderful things that came of it.
This salad, for one! Peach, Bacon, and Onion salad with Buttermilk Dressing
And this one! Avocado, Fava, Quinoa Salad.
Another great thing to come of July? Having to be organized about meals has spilled over into other parts of my life. First of all, I have to keep the kitchen clean and tidy (especially the fridge) as I am prepping and storing copious amounts of fresh produce daily. This has encouraged me to carry this on to the rest of my apartment, and keep everything clean and tidy and deal with clutter right away. I do try to keep a clean-ish house, but sometimes when life gets hectic, staying organized is the first thing to fall away. Instead I take comfort in my couch and re-runs of Frasier. But not in July. How could I? I was too busy salading! Wait–I think I’ve just created a new verb!
Eating my 5-10 a day has also made me feel better. I feel lighter, more energized and more in control. I love to eat and can sometimes get carried away indulging in things that are quite extravagant. Setting a goal and having all of you here to keep me honest, I had to take more time to plan what I was going to eat and to really think about what it was that I was eating.
Committing to at least one salad each day has also helped with this intense heat that Toronto has experienced this summer. Fruit and vegetables have a high water content, which provide hydration, and make me feel instantly more alert.
Mum’s Greek Salad
So my house is clean, I’m not thirsty, and I am wide awake. All these things mean I am pulsing with energy! I can get more things done! I can finally fit in that yoga class I’ve been meaning to go to for weeks. I feel confident! I can do anything I put my mind to!
Ok, so I sound like one of those Participaction commercials. But you know what? It’s true. When you eat better you feel better, simple as that.
So now that July’s over am I going to stop salads cold turkey? Not a chance. While I may not fit in a new salad EVERY day, I am making a concerted effort to continue my quest to find new and fun ways to add more fresh food to my diet. I have realized that by adding more salads, it doesn’t take away from dessert opportunities, it just makes them sweeter. Wow, the gift of salad just keeps on giving!
In order for you to take advantage of the endless gifts a salad can bring, I will set up a tab with all of July’s salads so you can quickly reference the recipes. Stay tuned for that coming soon.
I have to thank you too, both for getting on board and eating salads with me and also for sharing your special recipes. There were so many great options that I couldn’t fit them all into July. But never fear, they will be making an appearance on this blog very soon.
What were your favourite July salads?
Did you try something for the first time? Tell us about it!
Until next time, happy salading!
Comments (2)
You take such great pictures – I’m salivating and it’s still early morning! Definitely up for trying the Peach, Bacon and the Avocado, Fava. Maybe even the Greek. Thanks for the healthy inspiration!
Thanks so much, Cheryl. Definitely give those salads and try and tell me how you like them. They were some of my faves! Have a great weekend!