To Really Amp The Flavor Of Your Summer Salads, Focus On The Seasoning

Summer brings with it a transition to fresher, lighter meals, such as salads. If you're excited for the warmer weather but less than thrilled about the same-old summer salads you've been making year after year, fret not. There's an easy way to boost the flavor of your existing salad repertoire, and you may already have it in your crisper drawer or growing in the windowsill: fresh herbs and spices.

Herbs and spices may often get overlooked when it comes to salad composition, but they can make your bowls shine. This fresh addition can perk up overplayed greens and bring a breath of fresh flavor to your usual favorites, from chicken caesar to cucumber-avocado. 

Many herbs are easily grown at home as well, making them an affordable, delicious addition to not just salads but any of your summertime meals. There's no reason not to sprinkle a handful into your next creation.

Herbs and spices not only add a boost of flavor; they also up salads' nutrition factor. Fresh herbs are rife with nutrients such as Vitamins A, C, and K, as are other leafy greens. Many of them are also chock-full of polyphenols, which act as antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory effects on the body. 

Individual herbs each have unique health benefits, from acting as digestive aids to helping to freshen your breath. They may have a reputation as garnishes, but herbs pack a hefty nutritional punch, too.

Dry spices have health benefits as well. Capsaicin, well-known for causing the spice of chili peppers, promotes heart health, increased metabolism, anti-inflammation, and even pain relief in some cases. (Just don't eat too much of it, or you may suffer the consequences — as anyone who's put a few too many chilies in their meal is all too aware.)

Need ideas for how to make your next salad sing with herby, spicy flavor? Chopped basil makes a fine addition to Caesar salads, bringing freshness to what can be a heavier dish. Basil adds an herbal zing to most greens-based salads in general and mixes well with spinach in particular.

Dill is a good, classic pairing with cucumber-based salads, blending well with the slightly briny taste of a tomato, cucumber, and feta combination. Cilantro will work in similar mixes as well; it also works with most salads that involve avocado and lime.

Put a pinch (or a whole handful) of parsley into salads made with quinoa and lemon for a winning trio. And add some sliced chilies to any salad you don't mind ramping up with a punch of heat. You can even char them on the grill first for a smoky, spicy flavor.