In a Green Mood - Best Restaurants to get a Salad in Orange County, California

Salad. Many people think of it as a side dish, to go along with "the real meal". Personally, I've always been partial to eating salad for my main course. It's healthy (if you chose wisely), light, yet filling and it really tastes good. My son has said numerous times to his friends and family that he's never seen anyone but me practically do a happy dance just because I'm eating a plate of greens.

In Orange County, California I'm not alone in my pursuit of a delicious bowl of veggies. Here are some worth trying:

-Spasso's in Laguna Hills. Yes, they also serve some terrific Italian food, but two of my favorite salads come from this restaurant. If you want a veggie only salad, go for the asparagus and artichoke. Crisp and fresh with a light lemon dressing. For something heartier-go for the roasted salmon. It includes asparagus as well, but also has fresh mozzarella, sun-dried and fresh tomatoes and romaine. So tasty, even if you don't use dressing, you'll be a happy camper. They serve some great italian bread made nice and warm and toasty with it.

-Rutabegorz in Orange. This organic restaurant has been around and changed it's menu through the many years, but they put together some fun dishes. As I mentioned, they change their fare, so be flexible and try some pumpkin or banana bread with whichever salad you chose. You won't be disappointed.

-BJ's Brewery. Several throughout the county. They have many to chose from, from very healthy to "why bother, I've blown the calories for the day". But, they're all very good. Because the brewery is attached, the breads are fresh and the smell of yeast abounds, so try a piece with your choice.

-Claim Jumpers. Again, this chain, which started in Los Alamitos, has many locations. Not only do they have several absolutely delicious salads to order off the menu, but they have one of the best salad bars around to dish up your own masterpiece. My favorite used to be the wild greens with cranberries and candied walnuts-for some reason, they take it on and off the menu at a moments whim. Since you're having salad, splurge with one of their terrific muffins. The bran muffin tastes more like chocolate. But if you're watching calories-share with one if not two hungry friends, because any of their bakery goodies are rich and I'm sure highly filled with way too much of what you're trying to avoid eating!

-Souplantation. Another chain-this one known as the soup-salad-dessert place. Very family orientated. Plenty of healthy and non-healthy choices. This one's here because they do a good job of making sure everything they serve is kept fresh and clean. There's a way for everyone from vegans to meatlovers to have a decent meal.

There you have it-you can have a terrific and healthy meal that's filling in Orange County, California now that you know where to find it!