Paleo meal plan

BROCCOLI-ARUGULA SALAD WITH BACON

I almost always have the ingredients for this simple salad in my refrigerator, but I often forget to throw them all together. Broccoli and cucumber are both such “snacky” vegetables in my mind—I never do much more with them than cut them up and munch on them with a side of Ranch Dressing (here), but they are so good for adding texture and flavor to salads. Add a little red onion and some bacon, and you’ve got lunch. SERVES 4

PREP TIME: 10 minutes

COOK TIME: None

2 cups arugula, washed and well drained

½ cup broccoli florets

½ cucumber, quartered and sliced

¼ red onion, thinly sliced

3 to 4 tablespoons apple cider vinaigrette (see here)

2 or 3 slices cooked bacon, cut widthwise into strips

In a large bowl, toss to combine the arugula, broccoli, cucumber, and red onion with the vinaigrette. Top with the bacon strips, and serve.

VARIATION 1 BROCCOLI-SPINACH SALAD WITH PECANS AND APPLES: Add ¼ cup toasted pecans and half a diced green apple to the salad.

VARIATION 2 BROCCOLI-SPINACH SALAD WITH BACON: Swap out the arugula for spinach if you’re in the mood for a less peppery salad. (You can also skip the bacon if you want only veggies.)