Memorial Day is just a few days away and this Oat and Pineapple Salad will make a perfect side for your cookout.

I was first introduced to whole grain salads a few years ago when a coworker made a wheat and apricot salad for lunch. In my mind I turned my nose up at it, but I didn’t say anything and tried it anyway. What a surprise when I realized I liked it! Ever since then, I’ve LOVED grain salads.

This is a hearty salad packed with nutrients. Oat groats are full of protein, fiber, iron, and zinc. You get more protein from the almonds and vitamin C from the pineapple and dried cranberries. While it’s a fantastic side, I also like to eat it by itself for lunch or for a small, healthy snack.

It’s a little tangy with some sweet and the mint gives it a fresh kick. The oats are nutty and chewy, adding a delightful mouth feel. It’s difficult for me to describe this salad because there’s so much going on, but all the ingredients compliment each other so well. This is one you definitely need to try for yourself. I hope you’ll love it as much as I do.