Salads and more salads

About two months ago when I started exercising, I also started looking at the calories in what I eat, and it was surprising. So I started trying to reduce the junk I eat and increase the good stuff. I also realized that when I eat a lighter meal at lunch, I'm not quite as tired during the afternoon classes. So, I've started taking salads to school every day. The key to avoiding salad boredom, for me, has been to include one or more items that are different or especially yummy. Things I don't eat often. The things that make me happy are edamame seeds, feta cheese, sunflower seeds, salmon salad, chicken salad, cottage cheese, eggs, etc.

I also started making 'health bowls,' basically a salad with healthy grains like quinoa or brown rice, cooked vegetables, etc. Just a more substantial salad. The sky is really the limit here and I've had fun creating these. Got the idea from Real Simple but it's not exactly new.

Here's one w/ quinoa and salmon. So good.

This week I discovered Mason Jar Salads, and I'm kind of obsessed. I wish I had found this idea sooner! Apparently I've been under a rock because they are all the rage. The idea is to layer a bunch of ingredients- dressing on the bottom, hardy vegetables next, then other stuff like meat, cheese, and beans if you like, finally greens. The greens stay crispy because they never touch the dressing, and all you have to do is grab a jar from the fridge in the am and go. I've always found salads to be a hassle because of the dressing and the cutting up of a bunch of ingredients every night. Even though I've gotten used to all the prep lately, it would be even better to have a few days of salads just ready to go!

So, if you are into this stuff like I am, check out this Mason Jar Salad tutorial and these awesome recipes. Or google 'Mason Jar Salads' and you will be bombarded with ideas. Last night I made my first one and enjoyed it on a beautiful spring day outside at FSI. Somehow, it was yummier than a regular salad (also, it's a great way to use up leftover meat, veggies, etc! This was fajita chicken from last night). I'm planning to try a bunch of different recipes this Sunday.

What's that? You're wondering when I study Chinese? Well, yea, I basically only study at school these days. Which I why I will hopefully pass, but not exceed the expectations or anything. Oh well. My overall health is important, too.