If you hear the word “salad” and all you can think of is wilted lettuce smothered in Thousand Island, then it’s time you changed your way of thinking.

Salads are the most versatile of dishes. Serve them as appetizers, side dishes, main dishes, desserts…the sky’s the limit.

Following are a few recipes that showcase the marvelous versatility of salads, including favorites from the files of several Alabama Farmers Federation members. As different as they are, they all have one factor in common: They’re outstanding!

With spring just around the corner, keep in mind that salads are a great way to eat healthy and take advantage of Alabama’s bounty of fresh, homegrown produce.