5 Most Underrated Salads in Fort Collins
Fort Collins has many nicknames, The Choice City, The Napa Valley of Beer and Fort Fun. For the past 41 years it has also been called Tree City USA not just for the extensive fauna but more recently due to the variety of plant based choices and healthy dining alternatives. In order to assist with all of your herbivorous dining needs, here is a list of the 5 most underrated salads in Fort Collins.
Pesto Chicken — The Colorado Room
If you’re thinking that a sports bar that is known for its gourmet sliders couldn’t possibly have a good salad, you’ll be surprised by the first entry in this list. Located on South College Avenue near Laurel Street, this whole in the wall restauraunt has an eye for showcasing the best local brews and artistry. From poutine to wings, their menu has chow for everyone, however the Pesto Chicken salad really stands out. The robust flavors of the pesto mixed with fresh greens and a splash of their cranberry pear vinaigrette is a combination that leaves you feeling quite refreshed.
King Kale — Tasty Harmony
Located in the bustling heart of Old Town, Tasty Harmony offers a variety of plant based cuisine that is to die for, pun intended. Soups, sandwiches and smoothies adorn the menu of this family owned business, but salads are king. Topped with quinoa, cabbage and carrots grown in the resaturants locally owned garden, the King Kale is a one of a kind salad. The second entry in our list features a unique take on everyday ingredients like crunchy chickpea croutons and a nutty almond krisna dressing. Decorated with fresh avocado’s this light and crispy dish will catre to even the pickiest of tastebuds.
Summer Strawberry Chicken Salad — Spoons
You can’t talk about salad in northern Colorado without mentioning Fort Collins founded eatery, Spoons. Established in 2003 with six different locations, their menu speaks for itself with a focus on a low pricepoint and high flavor. All ingredients are obtained from local farmers and their bread is baked fresh every single morning. With 10 different salad options that rotate in stores on a daily basis, it is impossible to choose just one. The third entry on the list is a fruit filled floury of flavors. Glazed with a house-made poppyseed vinaigrette and infused with feta, almonds, strawberries and dried cranberries this mouth watering dish is organically nutritious.
Caesar Salad — Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
TexMex food with a Colorado twist, The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant celebrates the entire dining experience. The restaurant features three dining rooms, an outdoor patio, and a full sized bar. The second floor of the venue includes the elegant Agave Room which hosts large scale events as well as salsa dancing on Tuesday nights. Depsite being known for their custom margaritas, the Caesar Salad is a staff favorite. “It is perfectly balanced and is unlike your typical Caesar,” Hostess Sarah Haynes said. An original take on a classic salad, the plate has customizable protein options but always includes tomatoes, avocados, pickled onions and a splash of cotija cheese.
Greek Salad — Cheba Hut
The last entry in the list of underrated salads comes from the toasted sub sandwich paradise, Cheba Hut. Munchie maniacs beware, this Fort Collins staple has tantalizing tastes for every dietary need. Their signature Greek Salad is made to order with ingredients prepared fresh every morning. Vegetarian friendly and smothered with cucumbers, peppers, kalamata olives, onions and handcrafted house-made croutons, this delectable dish can cure the craziest of cravings.
