When you want greens — enough to make a whole meal of them — make these your go-to orders:
PEA LEAVES & CRISPY QUINOA
Ellen’s on Front, Greenport
This isn’t the average health nut’s quinoa — this salad has flair. The pea leaves and crispy quinoa (cooked, air-dried and fried) are all dressed up with watermelon radish, grilled corn and avocado, then coated in a delicious, mild lemon-roasted garlic vinaigrette. $16
PINEAPPLE PARADISO
Olive Branch Restaurant, Greenport
The name fits this tropical salad, which is served in a pineapple. The fruit is mixed with greens, walnuts, cranberries, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, red onion and scallions. But the best part is the fried pineapple that comes on top — juicy, sweet and crispy. $32
FRIED CALAMARI INSALATA
Touch of Venice, Cutchogue
Polenta-crusted and tender, the calamari are the star of this salad. But a rainbow of other ingredients — mixed greens, peppers, peppadews, shaved parm — make it the salad of the summer. Finished off with citrus and truffle oil vinaigrette, it’s light but still oh-so-filling. $24
CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN SALAD
Wednesday’s Table, Southold
A clever name is always appreciated, but this salad is so much more than a catchy title. Mixed greens, shredded cabbage, grated carrots and toasted almonds are combined into a rainbow of health. It’s all topped off with crispy puffed rice noodles and nutty tahini soy dressing. $10.95
LOBSTER COBB SALAD
Duryea’s Orient Point, Orient Point
Not only does this salad feed three to four people, but it also has tons of fresh lobster meat, baby gem lettuce, cheddar, bacon, avocado, tomatoes and a tangy tarragon dressing. It’s a signature at the restaurant and should be for you, too. $78
MESCLUN SALAD
Country Corner Cafe, Southold
We all know this spot has amazing sandwiches, but don’t sleep on their salad options. Our fave starts with mesclun greens, strawberries, toasted almonds and gorgonzola cheese and ends with a zesty raspberry vinaigrette. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for some extra protein. $10.99
