Salad fixings are the usual ingredients: cheese, bits of egg, maybe some bacon, a bit of cucumber and tomato, maybe even a slice of red onion or croutons that have a special, flavorful crunch.
Salads usually contain the same items, and they can become boring, even with salad fixings that are changed from time to time.
Here are a few ways to turn your "ho hum" salad into a "WOW" salad - and it doesn't take more than what you might already have in the refrigerator.
Make your own salad dressing.
With a bit of oil and vinegar, including flavorings like red wine and lemon juice, you can make your own tangy dressing.
If you're in the mood for something with a bit more kick, look into the sweet combination of mayo, pickle juice, ketchup, and other everyday ingredients that make up thousand island dressings.
Get even more creative with salsa or guacamole! Go nuts! Sprinkle toasted walnuts, peanuts, and even spiced pecans all over your salad.
The crunch will add interest to the everyday fare, giving it a delightful thrill with every bite.
Get fruity.
Fruit on a salad can make even the most usual day seem fresher and lighter.
Try raisins, bits of pears, diced apple, thin slices of kiwi, and dried cranberries or cherries.
Get cheesy.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on your salad, or cut up bits of mozzarella for a low-fat addition.
You can even use bits of soft cheese, melted slightly and poured over your greens.
Grill your veggies.
The texture of the veggies in your salad can make all the difference.
So throw them on the grill for a minute before you put them on top of your greens.
This includes those tomatoes - the flavor of a salad is transformed when your tomatoes are grilled just to the point of bursting.
Making that salad a work of art will keep you from being bored, and that will make every delicious summertime dinner even more special!