1 salad Field Greens Salad with Gorgonzola Cheese (Full) contains a whopping 1098 calories, though much of it is due to the creamy and flavorful Gorgonzola cheese topping. If you're looking for a salad that's both delicious and nutritious, keep reading.

Field Greens Salad is loaded with vitamins and minerals from the variety of greens used in the mix. And while cheese is often seen as an unhealthy topping, Gorgonzola has surprising nutritional benefits.

In this article, we'll explore the calorie count of this salad and ways to make it healthier while still enjoying the flavor combination.

The Calories in Field Greens Salad with Gorgonzola Cheese

As mentioned earlier, a full Field Greens Salad with Gorgonzola Cheese contains over 1000 calories, mostly from the cheese itself. If you're watching your calorie intake, it's best to opt for a smaller portion or only use a small amount of cheese as a topping. To break it down further, one ounce of Gorgonzola cheese contains approximately 100 calories. So even just a few crumbles can add up quickly in terms of calorie count. Keep in mind that the nutrition information may vary depending on the brand or type of cheese used and the serving size of the salad. Be sure to check the label or do some research to get a more accurate calorie count.

Why Gorgonzola Cheese Makes the Salad High in Calories

Gorgonzola cheese is known for its strong and salty flavor, which makes it a popular topping for salads and other dishes. However, it's also a high-fat cheese, which contributes to the calorie count. In addition, many varieties of Gorgonzola are made with cream, which adds even more calories and fat to the cheese. So while it may be a tasty addition to your salad, it's important to be mindful of how much you're adding. If you're looking for a lower-calorie cheese option, feta or goat cheese can be good alternatives that still add flavor to the salad without all the extra calories.

The Nutritional Benefits of Field Greens

Field greens are a mix of several different leafy greens, such as arugula, spinach, and kale. As a result, they offer a wide range of vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health. One cup of field greens provides about half of your daily requirement of vitamin A and a quarter of your daily requirement of vitamin C. They're also a good source of folate, which is essential for proper cell growth and development. Additionally, many of the greens used in the mix are high in antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body and protect against chronic diseases.

The Health Benefits of Gorgonzola Cheese

While Gorgonzola cheese may be high in calories, it also has some nutritional benefits to offer. For example, it's a good source of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. It also contains some protein and vitamin B12, which are necessary for energy production and DNA synthesis in the body. And while it is a high-fat cheese, it's also lower in cholesterol than many other types of cheese. Of course, like all foods, Gorgonzola cheese should be consumed in moderation to balance its nutritional benefits with its calorie content.

Alternative Dressing Options for the Salad

If you're looking to cut down on calories for this salad, one easy option is to switch up the dressing. While the traditional dressing for this salad is a balsamic vinaigrette, there are plenty of other options that can be just as tasty. Some ideas include a low-fat Caesar dressing, a simple lemon and olive oil dressing, or even just a drizzle of honey mustard. Be sure to watch the calorie and fat content of your chosen dressing to ensure you're not undoing all your healthy salad choices.

How to Incorporate Field Greens Salad with Gorgonzola Cheese into Your Diet

If you're a fan of this salad but want to make it a more regular component of your diet, there are plenty of ways to do so. One option is to prepare it at home using fresh greens and a lighter dressing. You can also order a half portion of the salad at restaurants and pair it with a soup or other lower-calorie dish to balance out the meal. And don't forget that you can also use some of the components of the salad, such as the Gorgonzola cheese or mixed greens, in other recipes to get the nutritional benefits without all the extra calories.

Tips for Making the Salad More Filling

One common complaint about salads is that they don't leave you feeling full and satisfied for very long. If you find yourself hungry soon after finishing this salad, there are a few things you can do to make it more filling. One option is to add some protein, such as grilled chicken or turkey, to the salad. This will help to keep you feeling full and also provide some additional nutrients to the dish. Another option is to add some fiber-rich toppings, such as quinoa or chickpeas, which can also help to keep you full for longer.

Possible Variations of the Salad Recipe

While the traditional recipe for this salad is delicious on its own, there are plenty of variations you can try to mix things up. One option is to add some fruit, such as sliced strawberries or pears, for a sweet and tangy flavor. You can also switch up the cheese, using a different type of blue cheese or even feta or goat cheese. And of course, adding different toppings, such as nuts or dried cranberries, can also add some extra flavor and nutrition to the dish.

The Best Beverage Pairings for the Salad

When it comes to pairing a beverage with this salad, there are a few things to consider. Because the salad is already quite rich and flavorful, you don't want something too sweet or overwhelming to pair with it. A light-bodied white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can be a good match. You can also try a light beer or a refreshing iced tea to cleanse your palate between bites.

Precautions to Consider When Consuming the Salad

While this salad has many nutritional benefits, there are a few precautions to take when consuming it. If you have lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy, the Gorgonzola cheese may not be a good addition to your diet. Additionally, if you're watching your sodium intake, be sure to monitor the amount of cheese and dressing used in the salad, as these can be high in sodium. And if you're on a low-calorie diet, be sure to watch your portion size to avoid consuming too many calories.