Is your salad MAKING YOU FAT?

Despite your ‘good’ intentions, you might be making the wrong choices

- DEBRA WATERS

We tend to think of salads as the ultimate health food. The truth is that they can be calorific and laden with fat and sugar, but does that mean we should choose a burger instead? Not at all. Salads are very good for us if we know what ingredients to include in them and what to dodge. ‘Avoid salads that have lots of fried toppings and processed meats, such as onions and bacon, as well as creamy dressings,’ says registered nutritionist Rob Hobson, author of Unprocess Your Life (£18.99, HarperCollins)*. Need some inspiration? Replace ‘naughty’ ingredients for these nutritious ones.

Swap… bacon or lardons

For… sun-dried tomatoes

‘Eating too much red processed meat may put you at greater risk of bowel cancer, so limit these in your diet,’ says Rob. You can afford to skip this kind of animal protein for really flavourful veg. To get the umami kick of bacon, Rob recommends sun-dried tomatoes.

Swap… Cheddar

For… feta

Not all cheeses are created equal. Some are lower in saturated (‘bad’) fat than others. ‘Swap Cheddar or blue cheese for feta or halloumi, as these are healthier options,’ says Rob. ‘These are also available in reduced-fat versions to help lessen the energy load.’

Swap… couscous or pasta

For… wholemeal versions