Great Salad Toppers

Although not used often enough, salad toppers are a great way to mix up a salad that may only consist of fruits, veggies, and protein. Because they are usually an afterthought in salads, to take a salad to the next level and really make it stand out flavorful toppers that add texture are an absolute necessity. Below are some recommendations and reviews of my favorite salad toppers to incorporate.

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Parmesan Whisps
Somehow, these disks of parmesan cheese are crunchy, but still are packed with the salty flavor of parmesan we all know and love. I notice that when I put shaved parmesan on my salads, it tastes stringy and isn't the kind of texture I need to offset the general softness of my ingredients. However, the parmesan whisps provide the satisfying crunch I want yet still taste the same as the shredded version. Don't get me wrong, they look a little strange-tasting, but don't let that get in the way of you ultimately enjoying the many benefits of adding parmesan whisps to your next salad!
(Best with Caesar salad)

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Toasted Pumpkin Seeds
I admit it is a little annoying that  you have to put these in the oven instead of having them already  prepared like the whisps or the  sesame buds, but the result is  worth it. Best with a little salt  sprinkled on top, these not only  add crunch but add a rare bitterness to any salad. If you use these, try to contrast with "bright" tasting ingredients like fruit, strong cheeses, and tomatoes. This contrast will truly make any salad very unique-tasting, and surprisingly delicious.
(Best with simple house salads, or salads with feta cheese)

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Sesame Buds
Although many brands of these claim these are only made up of sesame seeds and salt, sesame buds (or sticks) are absolutely PACKED with flavor. I am convinced there is a secret, super-ingredient that companies aren't telling us about, because, seriously, these are way too good to just have these two ingredients. This is probably my favorite salad topper, since it is crunchy, addictive, and the flavor is unexpectedly very savory. Also, they come in different flavors like original, honey, and cheddar. Trust me, try them once, and you will be hooked. Sometimes I even pop handfuls into my mouth without the salad! I strongly suggest taking a chance on this unique topper and using it for your next salad.
(Best with Caprese salad)

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​Quinoa
Chances are you probably already know what this is, and how it has numerous health benefits. It's rich with protein, is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, earning its title as a "supergrain." That being said, it isn't very flavorful. However, when surrounded by a salad with many other ingredients, it does add new texture to the mix. That being  said, quinoa is beneficial health-wise to add to a salad with many other flavors, but may not be the tastiest addition to a simpler salad.
(Best with savory salads, especially  ones with avocado or mozzarella)

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