Winter Salads
Salads in winter?? You may have heard that salads (specifically raw foods) are not recommended in winter as they will increase and likely aggravate vata dosha. Warm cooked veggies and grains come together in delicious combinations that feel fresh yet meet our needs for winter nourishment.
Salads go together easily and are very customizable. By swapping out raw ingredients for cooked and warmed ones, salads can be enjoyed throughout the winter season. Read more below for what might be your next favorite meal in the winter rotation.
Butternut & Farro Kale Salad
Check out the recipe here.
If you’re creative and adventurous, you don’t even need a recipe for a delicious winter salad. Pair up any combination of the following:
There are a handful of greens that can be used as a base for winter salads: steamed or sautéed kale, chard or collards, or greens that can be wilted by layering warm ingredients on top, such as arugula or mixed baby salad greens.
Cook up hearty grains that are nourishing for winter such as farro, wheat berries, rice, bulgur, or the protein-packed seed: quinoa.
Add beans or another vegetable. Starchy root vegetables such as beets, butternut squash, or sweet potatoes add additional filling fiber.
Another protein source if you desire.
Layer on toppings for texture variety and flavor. Sprinkle on seeds or cheese (be mindful of food combinations)
Dress with a good amount of healthy oils. Usually 2 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil, or add avocado.
My ‘no-recipe’ salad last week included: arugula wilted by the addition of cooked buckwheat and roasted veggies, a few slices of vegan ‘sausage’, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of sea salt.