24 Mouthwatering Salads from Around the Globe: Taste the Nutrition!

(CNN) – The culinary creation known as salad traces its roots back to ancient Rome, where the practice of salting romaine lettuce emerged—"herbe salata," meaning "salted leaves." Centuries later, salads evoke diverse interpretations. For some, they consist of a bowl of lettuce with customizable toppings, while others envision warm grain-based compositions like farro, or even salads entirely devoid of greens, such as macaroni or potato salad. Some view salads merely as chilled side dishes, while others transform them into fulfilling meals enriched with an array of proteins. Ultimately, salads vary greatly among individuals, with the essence lying in fresh produce, textures, and well-balanced dressings. Regardless of preparation, salads can narrate the culinary stories of their respective regions. In places like Greece, Mexico, and Japan, salads embody not just taste but also cultural heritage, reflecting local ingredients and traditional wisdom passed down through generations. Chefs will attest that crafting a salad is an art that demands skill, evident in the enduring popularity of classic versions with subtle tweaks over time.