Tasty Salad Recipes You Won’t Be Able To Resist
Bored of the same old soggy sandwiches for lunch? You’re not the only one!
What with the rise in temperatures and glowing sunshine, sometimes you want a bit more from your midday meal than a mundane sarnie - and let’s be honest, who can blame you?
Well we’re here to serve you with some fresh packed lunch ideas that won’t make you consider skipping lunch yet again.
Packed full of flavour and colour, salads are a summertime staple for sure and just because they’re healthy, doesn’t mean they have to be boring. In fact, there’s so much more to salads than leafy greens. Think potato salads, feta salads and pasta salads.
Whatever tickles your taste buds, we’ve got tons of salad ideas that will make you the envy of all your colleagues.
1. AVOCADO CHICKEN SALAD
WHAT YOU NEED (SERVES 1):
- 2 medium cooked chicken breasts, shredded or chopped
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted and diced
- 65g sweetcorn (tinned or frozen)
- ¼ red onion, diced
- 130g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp freshly chopped coriander
- 2 tbsp lime or lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to season
METHOD:
- Add the chicken, avocado, onion, sweetcorn, tomatoes and coriander to a large bowl.
- Drizzle with the lime or lemon juice, olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss gently until all the ingredients are combined.
2. SALMON SALAD WITH SESAME DRESSING
WHAT YOU NEED (SERVES 1):
FOR THE SALAD:
- 125g new potatoes, sliced
- 130g French beans, trimmed
- 1 salmon fillet
- 40g salad leaves
- 2 small clementines, 3 sliced, 1 juiced
- Handful of freshly chopped basil
- Handful of freshly chopped coriander
FOR THE DRESSING:
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- ¼ lemon juiced
- ½ red chilli, deseeded and chopped
- 1 tbsp finely chopped onion
METHOD:
- Steam the potatoes and beans in a steamer set over a pan of boiling water for 8 minutes. Place the salmon fillet on top and steam for a further 6 to 8 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Meanwhile, mix the dressing ingredients together along with the clementine juice.
- If eating immediately, place the salad leaves onto a plate and top with the warm potatoes and beans and the clementine slices. Arrange the salmon fillet on top, scatter over the herbs and spoon over the dressing.
If taking to work, prepare the potatoes, beans and salmon the night before and pack into an airtight container with the salad leaves kept separate. Put the salad ingredients together and dress just before eating to prevent the leaves from wilting.
3. ROASTED NEW POTATO, KALE AND FETA SALAD WITH AVOCADO
WHAT YOU NEED (SERVES 1):
- 100g Jersey Royal potatoes, halved
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tbsp cold-pressed rapeseed oil
- ½ lemon, juiced
- ½ banana shallot, chopped
- 100g kale
- ½ avocado, peeled and pitted
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- 25g feta, crumbled
- ½ tsp chilli flakes
- ½ tbsp pumpkin seeds, toasted
METHOD:
- Preheat the oven to 200C/180C/gas mark 6. Boil the potatoes for 10 minutes until mostly tender, drain and leave to steam dry. Toss the potatoes in a large roasting tin with the garlic, drizzle over ½ tbsp oil and season. Roast for 20 minutes.
- While the potatoes are roasting, squeeze half the lemon juice over the shallot and half of the kale, season and massage gently to soften the kale.
- Remove the garlic clove from the oven. Put the rest of the kale on top of the potatoes, drizzle over a little oil, season and return to the oven for 5 minutes until crisp.
- Meanwhile, blitz the avocado, mustard, remaining oil and lemon juice together. Add enough water to create a smooth dressing and season to taste.
- Mix the potatoes and cooked kale into the raw kale salad and tip onto a plate. Drizzle over the dressing and top with the feta, chilli flakes and pumpkin seeds.
4. HALLOUMI, CARROT AND ORANGE SALAD
WHAT YOU NEED (SERVES 2):
- 1 large orange
- 2 tsp wholegrain mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- ½ tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 ½ tbsp rapeseed or olive oil, plus extra for frying
- 1 large carrot, peeled
- 110g block halloumi, sliced
- 50g bag watercress or baby spinach
METHOD:
- Peel the orange and cut away the pith. Use a small serrated knife to segment the orange, catching any juices in a bowl, then squeeze any excess juice from the off-cut pith into the bowl as well.
- Add the mustard, honey, vinegar, oil and some seasoning to the bowl and mix well.
- Using a vegetable peeler, peel carrot ribbons into the dressing bowl and toss gently.
- Heat a drizzle of oil in a frying pan and cook the halloumi for a few minutes until golden on both sides.
- Toss the watercress through the dressed carrots. Arrange the watercress mixture on plates and top with the halloumi and orange.
5. STRAWBERRY BALSAMIC PASTA SALAD
WHAT YOU NEED (SERVES 4):
- 450g farfalle
- 60ml balsamic vinegar
- 65g feta, crumbled
- 260g strawberries, quartered
- 65g baby spinach
- Salt and pepper to season
- 30g almond flakes, toasted
METHOD:
- Cook the farfalle in a large pot of boiling water until al dente. Drain, then transfer to a large serving bowl.
- To make the balsamic glaze, in a small saucepan, bring the balsamic vinegar to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened (approximately 10 minutes).
- Add the feta, strawberries and spinach to your serving bowl and generously season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine.
- Drizzle with the balsamic glaze and garnish with almonds.
Et voilà!
Gone are the days spent mulling over packed lunch ideas. With our tasty salad recipes, you can finally look forward to your 12 o’clock meal. Just make sure you write your name clearly over your tupperware because trust us when we say, you will be the subject of one or two envious stares.
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Beginners guide to starting a running routine this year
Whether you're looking for a new fitness challenge, gearing up for a 10k run, or simply aiming to get in shape - your running journey starts here!
Running is one of the most accessible ways to get fit, relieve stress, and boost mental health but it can also be intimidating if you’re just starting out. We’ve put together a simple guide to help you get moving safely and confidently this year.
1. Set Realistic Goals
Starting with a goal can make all the difference. Begin with something achievable, like running a specific distance or time, or simply going for three short runs a week. Avoid setting high expectations right away; this will help you stay motivated without the pressure.
2. Start Slowly
A common mistake beginners make is diving in too fast. Start with a mix of walking and running, such as the “run-walk” method. Try alternating a few minutes of running with a minute of walking, gradually increasing the running intervals each week.
3. Invest in Essential Gear
A quality pair of running shoes that matches your foot type and supports your stride can greatly reduce injury risk and enhance comfort. Moisture-wicking clothing will keep you dry, especially if you're running in various weather conditions. Adding a reliable set of headphones for music and a running vest can boost motivation and keep essentials within reach on your runs.
4. Warm Up and Cool Down
Warming up prepares your muscles for the workout and can improve your performance. Start with a 5-minute brisk walk or dynamic stretches. After running, spend a few minutes cooling down with gentle stretching to help prevent stiffness and soreness.
5. Track Your Progress
Using a journal, app, or smartwatch to track your runs helps you see progress over time and keeps you motivated. Start with a baseline run, and gradually push your limits by small increments each week. Seeing improvements, no matter how small, can give you a huge confidence boost.
6. Listen to Your Body
It’s normal to feel some discomfort as you start running, but pain is a red flag. If you feel sharp or persistent pain, take a rest day and allow yourself to recover. Proper rest is crucial for building endurance and strength over time.
7. Stay Consistent
Consistency is key in building a running routine. Aim for small, steady improvements each week rather than big jumps. Finding a running buddy, joining a local park run, or having an upbeat playlist can help you stay motivated on those days when getting out the door feels tough.
8. Celebrate Milestones
Whether it’s your first mile or first week without skipping a session, take time to celebrate! Acknowledging your achievements, no matter how small, can help keep you excited about your progress.
Starting a running routine can be a life-changing decision that builds not just physical fitness but also mental resilience. So, lace up, stay positive, and enjoy the journey—your goals are just a run away!
Shop AYBL for the latest activewear to keep you motivated in achieving your fitness goals this year!
Top Activewear pieces to achieve your goals this year
It’s the new year and you’re ready to crush your gym goals and reach new PB’s, which means it’s time to invest in some new activewear pieces and you're in luck! We've got an endless supply of activewear pieces to make you look good and feel good when crushing the gym. This is the year you to be the best version of yourself so let's get it!
Adapt
Our newest collection has just launched and is ready and waiting for you to crush your goals! Adapt will have you looking fierce, feeling unstoppable in the gym. Made from a lightweight, seamless, silky-soft fabric, Adapt moves with you, offering the perfect stretch to sculpt, flatter, and adapt to your shape, boosting your confidence in every workout. Built to withstand your toughest routines, this premium fabric combines durability with luxurious comfort.
The best part about this collection is that it offers versatility with the Sports Bra which can be worn in 4 different ways so you can style it however you wish!
Launched in 6 colours: Black, Slate, Green, Brown, Pink and Iris Blue and available in the below styles:
- Seamless Sports bra (worn 4 ways)
- Seamless Zip Jacket
- Seamless Crop top
- Seamless Shorts
- Seamless Leggings
So flex your style, adapt to your strength, and crush your goals with our latest Adapt collection. Shop here.
Empower
The Empower Seamless Collection is a best-seller, known for its ultra-soft fabrics and intricate contouring, boosting confidence during workouts. With the broadest colour range, it's the go-to for sculpting support during weight and strength training.
Available in many styles such as Leggings, Shorts, Sports Bra, Crop top, Long Sleeve crop top and available in 26 colours you’ll be spoilt for choice!
So push your limits and look your best in our Empower Collection. Shop here.
Balance V3
Balance V3 is another one of our bestsellers and not to mention - a workout wardrobe essential! It supports you from daily workouts to PB achievements. With contour detailing, flattering v neckline shaping, and bold colours, it's a collection worth exploring.
Available in Shorts, Leggings, Sports Bra, Strappy Sports Bra, Zip Jacket & Crop Top and in 26 different colours - this collection is perfected for your performance to help smash your goals. Shop Balance V3 here.
Essential Bras
These are a must-have for any workout wardrobe, and we've got a range of flattering styles and colours to suit any leggings or shorts. Whether you prefer a classic racerback or something with a little more support, our essential bras are perfect for an effortless range of movements.
Shop Essential Bras here
So there you have it, outfits with your name on - ready for you to crush your goals this year! Remember, the right activewear not only enhances your performance but also motivates you to show up and give your best every day. If you're looking for even more collections or accessories to style with, head over to our website.
AYBL Now Available in JD Sports
WE’VE GOT BIG NEWS! 👀
We’re thrilled to announce that AYBL is now available in JD Sports stores across the UK, Scotland & Ireland!
You can now shop AYBL in real life at selected JD stores across the UK, Scotland, and Ireland. Discover our latest releases alongside your favourite best-sellers, all designed to fit your active lifestyle. Here’s everything you need to know about our in-store collections:
What are some of the store locations?
What items can you shop in-store?
Empower Collection
The Empower Seamless Collection is a best-seller, known for its ultra-soft fabrics and intricate contouring, boosting confidence during workouts. With the broadest colour range, it's the go-to for sculpting support during weight and strength training.
Available in selected styles:
- Sports bra
- Full Zip Jacket
- Leggings
- Shorts
Adapt Collection
Get your hands on our newest collection launched this month! Adapt will have you looking fierce, feeling unstoppable, and help you smash your gym goals. Made from a lightweight, seamless, silky-soft fabric, Adapt moves with you, offering the perfect stretch to sculpt, flatter, and adapt to your shape, boosting your confidence in every workout. Built to withstand your toughest routines, this premium fabric combines durability with luxurious comfort.
Available in selected styles:
- Sports Bra
- Zip Jacket
- Leggings
Varsity Collection
Varsity, our trendiest loungewear collection yet. With a cool and playful edge, each piece is designed for comfort and effortless style. Varsity is the ultimate upgrade to your off-duty essentials. Made to wear as a pump cover or as a lounging set, it's everyone's go-to fit.
Available in selected styles:
- Hoodie
- Joggers
- T-Shirt
Not only have we launched in-store, but you can also shop AYBL online at JD Sports! Whether you prefer the ease of browsing from home or a fun shopping trip with the girls, JD is here to enhance your shopping experience with us like never before!
One collection that deserves your attention is the Sports Club Collection. Made for ultimate comfort, it features soft fleece-lined sweat fabric and an oversized fit, making it perfect to layer over your activewear for the gym or wear as a cozy lounging set. It’s the go-to fit everyone’s loving!
Available in selected styles:
- Hoodie
- Joggers
- T-Shirt
This is just the beginning—we can’t wait to see you shop AYBL IRL! Visit your nearest JD store to explore our AYBL fits’, and don’t forget to share your experience on socials by tagging us. See you there! Shop the full range of AYBL online at JD or visit us in-store to discover your favourites today!