“Fresh spring fruits and veggies deserve respect and good company. This simple salad takes care of both and can add a wow factor to any meal. Feeling fancy? Drop the raw sliced asparagus into ice water for a minute or two and it will curl into ribbons. In a hurry? Cut the asparagus into thin coins instead. In the dressing, the avocado provides its natural healthy fats for smooth and creamy results. Nobody will know it’s a health-promoting, no-oil-added dressing!”

Per serving (about 11oz/307g-wt.): 120 calories (35 from fat), 4g total fat, 0.5g saturated fat, 0mg cholesterol, 310mg sodium, 20g total carbohydrate (7g dietary fiber, 11g sugar), 4g protein

This is a beautiful salad that keeps well for a few days in the refrigerator. For best results, make sure to shred the cabbage very thinly.

Serve as a side dish or condiment. It is also delicious rolled into lettuce wraps.

“Fennel can be a tough nut to crack because of its overwhelmingly anise-y flavor. But here’s a simple recipe to take away some of fennel’s kick, but leave enough for fennel-lovers.”

“Different versions of this salad are popular from Turkey to North Africa. Red beets are used throughout the Mediterranean, but you could make this pungent salad with any type. If you mix the yogurt into the beets, your salad will be pink. I prefer to spoon it over the top.”
Advance preparation:

The beets can be prepared and marinated 4 or 5 days ahead.

Variation: You may substitute chopped or slivered fresh mint for the dill.

“If you like hummus, you like chickpeas. They’re a versatile legume, welcome in salads and soups, stews and pastas. This pretty summer salad is quickly assembled. You can also make it in winter without the tomatoes.”
Advance preparation: The salad can be assembled several hours before you wish to serve it. Keep in the refrigerator. Leftovers are good the next day.

This salad, which resembles gazpacho, is a lovely, light way to begin a Mexican meal. Serve it atop lettuce leaves as a salad, or serve over rice. Alternately, use it as a sauce with fish, chicken or fajitas.