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UK restaurant salads: calories, salt and what the dressing adds

Every salad across UK restaurant chains broken down by portion, with dressing, croutons and protein compared against NHS daily reference intakes.

A salad is a base of leaves plus everything added to it, and the additions almost always outweigh the base. The dressing alone can carry more calories than the vegetables.

Dressing is the main variable

Creamy and mayonnaise-based dressings typically add 150 to 250 calories per portion. Vinaigrettes add less but often carry more salt and sugar.

Dressings served on the side allow a genuine choice. Pre-dressed salads do not, and the label figure includes the full amount.

Protein, cheese and croutons

Breaded or crispy chicken changes a salad substantially. Grilled chicken adds protein with little else.

Cheese, bacon and croutons each add salt and saturated fat. A loaded salad can exceed the burger on the same menu.

Browse every UK restaurant salad

Each product page includes a full nutrition breakdown per serving and per pack, portion size comparisons, age-adjusted NHS daily reference intake calculations for children aged 4 to 17, an interactive calculator for your child's specific age and gender, and a complete ingredient and allergen guide.