Upgrade your salad game with these essential salad ingredients.

Our general formula is helpful and can be adapted endlessly by using whatever ingredients you have in the fridge.

Here’s how to make a simple salad that’s perfectly satisfying every time.

Salad Greens Tossed in the Air by Wooden Salad Utensils Above a Wooden Salad Bowl

Photo: Getty Images

A good guideline is roughly two cups of greens per person for a meal-sized salad.

For vegetarians, tofu, tempeh, eggs, and beans are the way to go.

Chewy farro is a favorite salad addition, but quinoa andbrown riceare equally good options.

Spring Green Salad on a White Serving Platter With Metal Utensils Surrounded by a White Napkin and Dressing on the Side

Greg DuPree

A touch of sweetness in an otherwise savory salad adds a complexity of flavors, making it more crave-able.

Even a handful of corn kernels will get the job done if you want something slightly more subtle.

Olive or avocado oilsare excellent choices for dressing, combined with lemon juice or vinegar.

Pretzel Crusted Chicken Cutlet Salad on a White Plate

Greg DuPree

Try balsamic for a subtle sweetness or red wine for a tangier dressing.

Another great option that’s only slightly more involved is aDIY vinaigrette.

Make a large batch and store it in your refrigerator for up to a week.

Salad with Chicken and Farro on a White Plate With Metal Fork on Top of a White Fabric Napkin

Jennifer Causey

Finish With Some Crunch

Texture plays a huge role in creating a balanced and memorable salad.

Toasted nuts or seeds, carrots or radishes, or homemade croutons can all add that satisfying bite.

Brussels Sprouts Salad With Pecans and Cranberries Served in a Bowl With Serving Utensils

Heami Lee

Green Goddess Pasta Salad in Rectangular Bowl With Metal Spoon on Table

Greg DuPree

Caesar Salad With Lemon-Parmesan Croutons Served in a Bowl With Metal Fork, Surrounded by White Cloth Napkin and Dressings in Small Glass Bowls

Alison Miksch