The most under-rated french fry substitute has to be the simple garden salad.
Think about it: yes, it’s the polar opposite of french fries. You hardly ever think “hey, I can really go for a super size salad right about now.” And how bout them cucumbers?
Don’t discount the sheer value here, however. A salad is filling, usually completely healthy, and can taste very, very good.
Dish #8 — A frickin salad
About two minutes — About $5 — Serves 2-4
Start with some story-bought baby arugula. It’s delicious and one of the most healthy plants you can eta. It’s loaded with vitamin C and potassium. If you want to double your green leaf pleasure, throw in some fresh baby spinach leaves for good measure.
I like to avoid lettuce and “light” green veggies. They’re flavorless and are mostly water. They don’t hurt, though. Veggies are still veggies.
Rinse the leaves thoroughly in a colander. Make sure you get both sides clean. Let the water strain out.
From here you can get as creative as you want. I tend not to get too creative. I do simple red and simple green. Carrots are healthy. Cucumbers. One of my personal favorites are raw green peppers. They are delicious. Red peppers work too and are a little sweeter.
Drizzle on some (SOME) light balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Another trick is to add some fresh ground black pepper and a little sea or kosher salt (coarse salt) to the mix for flavor.