It's been said before, and sometimes even accomplished before, but it seems that so many people's New Year's resolution is to make this the year they will finally drop that extra weight. Not just the holiday weight that seems to be hanging on most people these days, but those few pounds that just don’t seem to go away.

Instead of just saying it, take the first step to making it happen with these healthy salad ideas. Yes, a salad is the first thing people turn to when on a diet, but unless you get creative, the salads for lunch start to fade and are replaced by grilled paninis and burgers. Uh oh.

To keep things interesting, try incorporating some of these recipes into your go-to mix of dishes or feel free to play around with them and come up with some unique ideas of your own.



Chicken Tikka Salad

Spices are a great way to add flavor without adding fat, like in this recipe. Plus, the pistachio dressing helps to add richness and heart-healthy fats to the dish.








Radicchio Salad with Frisée and Apples

Slightly bitter radicchio pairs well with walnuts and the tang from balsamic vinegar, while the apples provide sweetness along with a textural crunch.







Hot Niçoise Salad

A twist on a traditional Niçoise salad, this version is served hot and comes from actress Gwyneth Paltrow.








Pesto, Peas, and Pine Nuts Pasta Salad

A healthier version of pasta salad, this recipe uses whole-wheat fusilli (farro or other alternatives work too) combined with nutty Parmesan and pine nuts. For an even healthier dish, try adding spinach or other greens to the pasta.






Whole-Grain Rice Salad

Supernatural guru Heidi Swanson makes this recipe that's filled with nutrient-packed spinach, nuts, herbs, and crumbled goat cheese.






More from our friends over at TheDailyMeal:

• 10 Foods that Will Fill You Up


• 10 Foods with the Highest Pesticide Residues


• 6 Seasonal Healthy Recipes


• 7 Quick Tips for Slimming Down Comfort Foods