In today’s economy, the rising cost of food is a serious matter, and chances are you’ve noticed you’re spending lots more at the supermarket. It seems as though the price of every food has gone up, and healthy foods are no exception. However, there is one dish you can make that is relatively inexpensive and healthy, so you can pamper yourself while saving money, and that is by creating your own salad at home.

There is no argument that a restaurant salad tastes delicious, especially if you have a favorite. But you have no control over the calories or the ingredients, and for what you’ll spend at a restaurant, you’ll be able to buy enough to last for several meals.

You’ll do best when you can buy ingredients that are in season. If you have a farmer’s market nearby, that’s the best place to get the freshest, tastiest ingredients. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t buy quality produce in the winter. It might cost a little more, but it’s still worth it.

Your salad will start with lettuce. What lettuce you choose is up to you and your taste buds. Iceberg is fine, but if you want a lettuce that packs a nutritional punch, try something that’s a darker green—think Romaine or leaf lettuce. If you’re looking for a different texture, try butter (Boston Bibb) lettuce. You can make things really interesting with peppery Arugula, spinach, watercress, or endive.

But don’t stop with the lettuce. Chopped veggies will give your salad variety in texture and taste. Tomatoes, whether chopped or grape or cherry tomatoes thrown in whole, add a zesty bite to your salad. And consider any of the following to make your salad interesting: cucumber slices, shredded carrots, snow peas, sliced red onions or scallions, shredded cabbage, peas, avocados, water chestnuts, or whatever vegetables you love.

If that’s not enough, you can add sliced sandwich meats or canned meats (like chicken or tuna). You can also throw in a little cheese, whether in chunks or grated. Remember, though, that these ingredients will increase the price (and calories!) in your salad. If you want added protein without spending as much money as you would on meat products, consider beans, whether you choose garbanzo or black beans, kidney or pinto. They add a mild flavor without being overpowering. If you want to have fun experimenting, you can also add sweet fruits, things like raisins, mandarin oranges, or pear slices. You can even cook a little pasta (like rotini or penne) for a different texture. For crunch, consider croutons, sunflower seeds or other chopped nuts, and whole grain crackers on the side.

Last but not least, consider making your own salad dressing to spend even less money and also avoid all the additives found in bottled dressings. There are recipes galore on the internet, and most of them take little time to make, last several days, and use basic ingredients (think vinegar or lemon juice and olive oil combined with herbs and spices).

Pamper your health and your wallet by making yourself a homemade salad and eat up!