Time needed:
30 minutes

Number of servings:
varies

Description:
For any size family, but especially a large one, a salad meal can meet varying tastes and is fairly economical. Children can help prepare, as well, and the buffet can include items to satisfy adults and children.

Ingredients:
These can vary, depending on tastes and how much you feel like spending/laying out on the table. At least 5 would be good for meeting individual tastes.

Here are suggestions:

Lettuce - Romaine, Leaf, Iceberg, etc., torn in bite-sized pieces

Carrots, sliced

Tomatoes, diced or sliced

Onions, sliced, diced or minced

Cucumbers, diced or sliced

Cheese, shredded or grated

Zucchini, diced or sliced

Strawberries, halved

Grapes, halved

Canned tuna or chicken breast, drained

Other ingredient ideas: radishes, celery, green or bell peppers, salad shrimp, olives, artichoke hearts, more...

Dressing - include a creamy and an oil-based one, if desired. OR, if you have time, set out oil, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper and herbs, and show kids how to mix one from scratch.

Include crackers, croutons, french or italian bread, pita bread or tortillas, if you wish.

Instructions:
Set out ingredients in individual bowls or on platters and encourage each family member to choose at least 3 vegetable/fruit items. Dressing can be added individually or not at all, then top with a sprinkle of cheese if desired. A meat or protein item can be offered, also.

Other comments or suggestions:
All kinds of things can be put on lettuce or mixed together and called salad. Allowing kids to make some choices within a framework will encourage them to eat healthfully, and will make for a nice family mealtime.

Spinach can be used in addition to or in place of lettuce.

Allow kids to help you choose produce at the grocery store, showing them how to make the best selection, and note that some items are priced by quantity and others by weight.