Choosing between iceberg lettuce or spinach? Tuna or eggs? Striking the right balance between nutrition and cost turns a salad bar into an interesting challenge. Fortunately, the team at Refinery29 has analyzed the options to help you load up on nutritious ingredients without overspending.
When it comes to greens, kale takes the crown. Packed with essential vitamins, its $8.99 per pound price at Whole Foods is actually more affordable than buying it from the produce section. Spinach, also nutrient-packed, takes second place.
As for proteins, fish takes the top spot—salmon is a great deal if you can find it, though its cheaper relative tuna offers similar nutritional value. In second place are almonds, with eggs taking the lowest position in terms of price: paying salad bar prices for eggs is described as "a bit like highway robbery."
Ideal toppings include sunflower seeds, olives, and avocado. Check out the full article for the complete list and some useful tips on selecting salad dressings.
Photograph courtesy of mack reed.
