To keep the color of vegetables such as green beans or asparagus bright green, do not toss them with a dressing containing vinegar or lemon juice until just prior to serving.

Always dissolve granular ingredients like salt and sugar in liquid before adding oil to a salad dressing. These ingredients will not dissolve in oil and the dressing might have a gritty texture.

If you plan to serve macaroni salad—either homemade or from the deli—you can "sneak" some extra vegetables in by mixing some cooked peas and carrots in the salad.