Vegan Chopped Power Salad (Gluten-free)

I’ve always loved fashion and buying new clothes, but I love it, even more, when I’m at a healthy weight. It’s been a slow journey, but ever since going vegan (February 2012), I’ve s-l-o-o-o-o-o-w-l-y been shedding the pounds.

Over the weekend, I transitioned my closet from summer to fall. In the process, I thinned it out significantly–removing items that I don’t wear or that are too big. Now I know why I had a closet full of clothes but felt like I had nothing to wear!

In the past few weeks, I’ve been adding new pieces that are not only a better fit but are better quality. Items that I KNOW I’ll wear. I even made a few new rules for myself:

Rule #1 – One in, one out.
For every new item I purchase, I will donate or repurpose an old item. (Not gonna lie, this rule will be hard not to break.)

Rule #2 – Make it work.
Instead of just hanging up a new item in the closet when I bring it home, I am trying it on again to make sure that a) I really like it and b) I can make it work in at least two (preferably three) outfits.

I just ordered a pair of bright (and I mean BRIGHT) red pants online and I could only come up with one good outfit that I really liked. So back they went. By sticking to this rule, I’m hoping to reduce/eliminate the number of impulse purchases that never seem to get used.

Vegan Chopped Power Salad Gluten-free

If you’re wondering how my new closet rules are related to this Chopped Power Salad, there is a correlation. I’ve been keeping up the juicing every few weeks because it keeps me balanced, it keeps my weight down and I feel/look much better in my clothes.

If my healthy habits begin to derail, it’s a great way for me to get back on track. When I juice, I crave healthier foods. And so this creation was born.

Vegan Chopped Power Salad Gluten-free

This salad has two somewhat unexpected ingredients–hummus and lentils. Hummus is a lot more versatile and a lot easier to make than most people realize. It’s not just for pita chips and veggies, my friends. Hummus is great on veggie burgers, sandwiches, wraps, and SALADS!

I like to use it in place of, or along with a dressing. It’s a great way to sneak in some protein, creaminess, and extra flavor. The same can be said for lentils–again, a great way to sneak in some protein and substance (they are so filling!).

Vegan Chopped Power Salad Gluten-free

You already know how to make a salad–throw some greens and chopped veggies together, add a dressing and you’re done. So this recipe is really more about the hummus and lentils. I left the greens and veggies up to you.

And by the way, this Lemon Basil Hummus is delicious so even if you’re not diggin’ this salad, just try the hummus.

Vegan Chopped Power Salad Gluten-free

If you pack this for lunch, I would suggest keeping the greens/veggies, the hummus, and the lentils separate until you’re ready to eat. Then mix ’em all together and get ready for a second wind instead of a nap!

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7 thoughts on “Vegan Chopped Power Salad (Gluten-free)”

  1. This salad looks super! I love hummus as a salad topper, and along with the lentils this must be really satisfying.
    Go you on the weight loss! I know the feeling on the wardrobe clearing out. It’s so rewarding to be able to see what you have available to you. I’ve been working on gaining to a healthy weight so should be clearing out my tiny clothes! Definitely going to use your rules :)

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  2. Your photos are beautiful, and congrats on your improved health–both inside and out. I just wanted to chime in and say that I always use hummus as my salad dressing, sometimes with the addition of vegan pesto or herbs to the mix. Plain Greek vegan yogurt is another “dressing” that I like, but sometimes I just want the taste of the veggies (or avocado) to be the star of the salad show ;) Looks delicious!

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