A Complete Guide to LongHorn’s Signature Salad
Steakhouses aren’t usually the first place people think of for a satisfying salad, but LongHorn Steakhouse has built a genuine following around one entrée-sized option that proves fresh and hearty aren’t mutually exclusive.
That dish is Farm Fresh Field Greens, a salad base that anchors several popular menu variations at the chain.
This guide breaks down exactly what this salad includes, how it’s served, what it costs across its different variations, and how it compares nutritionally to other options on the menu.
Whether you’re deciding between the chicken, salmon, or grilled protein version, this article covers everything you need before your next visit.
What Exactly Is Farm Fresh Field Greens?
Farm Fresh Field Greens is LongHorn Steakhouse’s base salad concept, built on a bed of mixed greens and topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, cheddar cheese, and croutons. Rather than being a single fixed dish, it functions as a customizable entrée salad, available with several different protein options depending on what guests are craving.
The salad has become a reliable choice for guests wanting something lighter than a steak entrée without sacrificing portion size, since most versions are designed to work as a standalone meal rather than a side dish.
Farm Fresh Field Greens vs Other Steakhouse Salads
Compared to other salads on the same menu, this option stands out in a few specific ways:
- Portion size: It’s built as a full entrée rather than a smaller side salad.
- Protein flexibility: Guests can choose between grilled chicken, crispy chicken tenders, or grilled salmon.
- Base ingredients: The core toppings tomatoes, cucumbers, cheddar cheese, and croutons — stay consistent across all variations.
- Dressing options: Multiple housemade dressings are typically offered, allowing guests to adjust richness and flavor.
The Different Protein Variations
Farm Fresh Field Greens with Crispy Chicken Tenders
This version features six hand-breaded chicken tenders layered over the greens, making it one of the heartier options in the lineup. It leans more toward comfort food than a traditional light salad, thanks to the fried protein component.
Farm Fresh Field Greens with Grilled Salmon
This variation swaps the crispy tenders for a bourbon-marinated grilled salmon fillet, offering a leaner, lighter protein option while still delivering a substantial entrée-sized portion.
Farm Fresh Field Greens with Grilled Chicken
This is generally the lightest option among the three, pairing grilled (rather than fried) chicken with the same base of greens and toppings, making it a popular choice for guests focused on lower-calorie options.
“A wholesome entrée salad that combines hearty protein with the crispness of fresh greens strikes a balance between indulgence and nutrition.” LongHorn Menu Guide
Why This Salad Has Become So Popular
There are several reasons this dish continues to be a top request among LongHorn regulars.
- Genuine entrée portion size Unlike smaller side salads, this one is designed to be a complete meal.
- Protein flexibility Guests can choose a lighter or richer version depending on their appetite and dietary goals.
- Balanced flavor profile The mix of fresh vegetables, cheese, and croutons keeps the salad from feeling one-dimensional.
- Available across dayparts It works equally well as a lunch or dinner order.
- Consistent quality Because it’s a signature menu item, preparation stays standardized across locations.
Nutritional Appeal
Guests looking for a lighter option at a steakhouse often gravitate toward this salad because it allows for meaningful calorie control simply by choosing the grilled chicken or salmon version instead of the fried tender option.
Customization Appeal
Because the base ingredients remain the same across all three protein versions, guests can easily swap proteins or request dressing on the side without significantly altering the overall dish experience.
Farm Fresh Field Greens Price and Nutrition Table
Pricing and nutrition vary depending on the protein selected. The table below reflects commonly reported figures for each variation.
| Variation | Approximate Price | Calories | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| With Crispy Chicken Tenders | $17.99 | 650 kcal | 42g |
| With Grilled Salmon | $20.49 | 530 kcal | 45g |
| With Grilled Chicken | Varies by location | 410 kcal | 44g |
As the table shows, the grilled chicken version offers the lowest calorie count while still delivering a comparable amount of protein to the salmon variation, making it a strong option for guests prioritizing lighter meals without sacrificing satiety.
“Simple tweaks like swapping to grilled protein or choosing a lighter dressing can make a noticeable difference in the overall nutritional profile of an entrée salad.” Registered Dietitian Nutrition Guide
How to Order It for a Lighter Meal
- Choose grilled chicken or salmon instead of crispy tenders to reduce overall calorie and fat content.
- Request dressing on the side to control portion size rather than having it pre-tossed.
- Ask for the croutons on the side or omitted if you’re watching carbohydrate intake.
- Consider a vinaigrette instead of a creamy dressing for a lighter overall dish.
- Split the crispy tender version if dining with someone else, since the portion is generous enough to share.
Best Pairings for Farm Fresh Field Greens
- Iced tea or lemonade A refreshing, lighter beverage pairing that complements the freshness of the greens.
- A cup of soup For guests wanting a slightly heartier meal without ordering a full steak entrée.
- A side of seasonal vegetables Adds extra freshness for those prioritizing a lighter overall meal.
- Sparkling water with citrus A simple, low-calorie pairing that doesn’t compete with the salad’s flavor profile.
Common Mistakes When Ordering This Salad
- Assuming all versions have similar calorie counts, when the protein choice makes a significant nutritional difference.
- Not asking about dressing portion size, which can substantially increase the overall calorie count.
- Skipping the option to customize toppings, missing an easy way to lighten or heighten the dish.
- Ordering it as a side dish expectation, when it’s designed and portioned as a full entrée.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in Farm Fresh Field Greens? It’s a base salad of mixed greens topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, cheddar cheese, and croutons, served with a choice of protein and dressing.
How much does Farm Fresh Field Greens cost? Pricing depends on the protein selected, typically ranging from around $17.99 for the crispy chicken tender version to $20.49 for the grilled salmon version.
Which version of Farm Fresh Field Greens has the fewest calories? The grilled chicken version is generally the lightest option, coming in at approximately 410 calories compared to 650 for the crispy tender version.
Can I customize the protein on Farm Fresh Field Greens? Yes, most locations allow guests to swap between grilled chicken, crispy chicken tenders, or grilled salmon depending on availability.
Is Farm Fresh Field Greens a good option for a lighter meal? Yes, particularly the grilled chicken or salmon versions, which offer a solid protein count without the added calories from fried toppings.
Conclusion
Farm Fresh Field Greens has earned its place as one of LongHorn Steakhouse’s most versatile menu items by offering guests a genuine choice between indulgence and lighter eating, all built on the same fresh, entrée-sized foundation. Whether you’re drawn to the crunch of crispy chicken tenders or the leaner appeal of grilled salmon, understanding the differences in price, calories, and toppings makes it easier to choose the version that fits your appetite and dietary goals.
References
- LongHorn Steakhouse — Official Menu and Salad Information.
- CalorieKing — LongHorn Steakhouse Farm Fresh Field Greens Nutrition Data.
- MyFoodDiary — Nutrition Facts for LongHorn Steakhouse Salads.
- FatSecret — LongHorn Steakhouse Salad Nutrition Database.
- LongHorn Menu Price Guide — Farm Fresh Field Greens Pricing and Calorie Breakdown.