1640 Chicago Ave., 847-733-1600, wholefoodsmarket.com
Wildcats are lucky to have one of the more than 350 U.S. branches of Whole Foods so close to campus. For meat eaters, vegetarians and even pescetarians, Whole Foods is a haven for salad lovers everywhere. The grocery store has dozens of packaged salads, but its best feature is a salad bar that features every type of lettuce, spinach, kale, quinoa, tabouleh, falafel and artichoke. Whole Foods also has all the salad basics, including cucumbers, carrots, corn and olives. It’s an endless supply of fresh and gourmet vegetables. There are also different types of chicken, tuna, eggs and tofu if you want to add some protein to your pile of greens. To keep it light, use olive oil and vinegar as dressing or pick from one of many other delicious choices. If you are feeling a little crazy, add some macaroni and cheese or roasted potatoes from the hot bar to your salad for a fuller meal. The opportunities are endless. Grab an iced tea or bottle of water from the refrigerated area next to the salad bar, and you’re ready to go. — Paulina Firozi
