This Surprising Hack Will Save Your Wilted Salad

Salads are truly one of the most delicious and versatile meals you can have. Whether you want something more hearty like a crispy buffalo ranch chicken salad or a lighter one like a classic Caesar salad — the choices are endless. And not only do they taste great, they're good for you. According to Livestrong, salads are loaded with beneficial nutrients and packed with fiber, which helps you to stay fuller longer. Leafy greens like kale and spinach also help to protect our bones and keep our heart healthy. 

However, certified dietitian and nutritionist, Gina Keatley, said it's also important to be mindful about what ingredients you're using and the portion size. "Salads are generally low-starch foods that will help you to regulate your blood sugar better," she told Eat This, Not That!. "But not all salads are created equal." So, let's say you've finally found the perfect leafy green entree that you're ready to dig into, but now you realize that the leaves have all wilted. What do you do?

It's really frustrating when you're in a hurry to grab a quick bite to eat and then realize your beautiful Cobb salad has become a wilted mess. But don't fret, you don't need to throw out your leafy greens because they can be rescued with a brilliant hack. Cooking teacher and food writer, Sonoko Sakai, told Bon Appétit that when her leaves need a little love she puts them in warm water for two to three minutes. She confessed, "I didn't believe it for a long time, but warm water actually works!"

EatingWell recommends a similar technique, but they explain that ice cold water is the way to go. If you have soggy greens the outlet advises that you should put them in a large bowl of ice water and put them in the fridge, then let them sit for 15 to 30 minutes. Then you can take the lettuce out, pat it dry with absorbent towels, and it's ready to be enjoyed again!