Photo a Day 2. Lunchtime

I love hitting the salad bar for lunch. It's quick, pretty inexpensive, always different, and healthy. Well maybe. That depends entirely on your choices.

So now I'll get on my healthy salad soap box and give you some tips on building a healthier salad.

1. Pile on the leafy greens, especially spinach and romaine. They provide a great low calorie base.
2. Load up on plain vegetables. Load them up and create variety in color - carrots, cucumbers, peas, broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, celery, and tomatoes.
3. Add 1 or 2 lean protein selections. Protein will help you feel full and satisfied. Options include hard boiled eggs, ham, turkey, black beans, chickpeas, grilled chicken, or cottage cheese.
4. Limit yourself to one high-calorie "extra." Go easy on the bacon bits, croutons, shredded cheese, olives, macaroni salad, and sliced almonds. And yes, you should only choose one.
5. Go easy on the dressing. Look for low-calorie or low-fat options in a vinaigrette instead of creamy. Squeezing a lemon over your salad is a good option too.

Enjoy!