As an avid foodie I try to be very mindful in what I fuel my body with. Don't get me wrong, I sure do love devouring a scrumptious bowl of ice cream when given the opportunity. But I also feel very refreshed and pleased after I enjoy a health filled salad or bowl. So I bring to you my favorite salads, as well as bowls and where they can be found in the Rocket City! Oh and don't worry, none of these are boring or plain- all are full of flavor and color. Let's dig in!
Sweet Bowl Alabama at Chop N Fresh
Honestly this one is a staple in my life. It is so joyfully good in every sense and gives me the happiest tummy. With a base of kale it houses roasted sweet potatoes, goat cheese, wild rice, almonds, apples, roasted chicken and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. An absolutely delish salad that I honestly could get everyday and would not tire of. It is pleasing to both the eyes and the taste buds. I love the pairing of a fresh bread slice too. Perfect option if you're on the go or want to catch up with a friend.
Goodland Pourhouse Berry Garcia Salad + Salmon
My heart was won over when I first had this delightful and delish salad. It is an absolutely beautiful combination of red quinoa, fresh strawberries, goat cheese, arugula, toasted pumpkin seeds, and pecan granola all drizzled in their house made balsamic vinaigrette. Plus the lovely addition of their grilled salmon that is incredibly mouthwatering and a good punch of protein. It is perfection in every sense. Definitely a favorite salad of mine for sure! I love this option for when I am enjoying a meal out with the whole family.
Salt Smokehouse Summer Salad
All the tastes and feels of summer can be found in this delectable entree. Brightly colored and filled with such fresh ingredients like watermelon and strawberries, this salad is enjoyable to the last bite. Along with the aforementioned items you also have cucumbers, candied pecans, mint, goat cheese, golden raisins and a yuzu vinaigrette drizzled on mixed greens. I adore this and always feel so refreshed after eating it. This, in my opinion, is a nice and light dinner option to finish the day off perfectly.
Blue Oak BBQ Blue Oak Salad
A refreshing medley of mixed greens, pickled red onions, shredded carrots, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes. Top it with your choice of pulled pork, chicken salad, chopped brisket, cubed turkey or fried brussel sprouts. Drizzle it with either herbed dill ranch or creole mustard vinaigrette. Personally, I enjoy mine with the cubed turkey plus fried brussel sprouts drizzled in herbed dill ranch. My husband said it best- the salad is not just an afterthought. And I couldn't agree more! There is a lot of beautiful preparation and hard work that goes into making this delish dish. And it's incredibly evident as soon as you take that first bite. While the rest of the crew eats barbeque you can indulge a well crafted salad.
Little Rosie's Fajita Chicken Salad
This Huntsville staple has one of my most sought out after salads. On a bed of lettuce you have grilled chicken, fajita veggies, shredded cheese, tortilla strips, diced tomatoes and salsa ranch dressing. I personally love topping mine with their fresh guacamole- it adds so much flavor and healthy fats. I have ordered this salad for as long as I can remember and I have yet to tire of it. This is the best place to bring an out of town friend to come try- everyone knows that's a must!
Providence Bar Caesar Salad
This is an elevated twist on a classic that everyone loves. Providence bar has upped their caesar salad game by including crisp, garlic-herb panko that adds a flavorful crunch to the traditional salad. With homemade caesar dressing and a dusting of parmesan, this is the perfect salad to start your meal with, or add grilled chicken to make it an entree!
J Alexander Cypress Salad
The Cypress Salad includes chopped crispy chicken tenders, pecans, avocado, tomatoes, bacon, cheese, and scratch-made cornbread croutons, yes that is correct cornbread croutons! This mix of flavors will have you returning again and again just for this salad.
La Esquina Cocina Shrimp Bowl
A perfectly put together bowl that both looks and tastes lovely. A wonderful combination of shrimp, rice, lettuce, corn salsa, queso, chipotle aioli, avocado, cilantro, and cabbage slaw. In my opinion, the juicy shrimp and fresh avocado really elevate the taste of this entree overall. And I have to say that every time I have had this it always amazes me with how excellent it tastes. This delightful and appetizing meal is excellent to indulge in at lunch or dinner.
Next time you are on the search for healthier, but still flavorful options just know these salads and bowls will have you covered. They are beautiful, delish, packed full tastiness, and all found at local spots in Huntsville. Pro tip- after you enjoy one of the wholesome options above make sure to go get that ice cream you've been craving!