11 salads to bookmark and make ASAP

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Forget everything you thought you knew about salads. These 11 recipes are game-changers, proving that salads can be both exciting and delicious. They’re quick to make and will have everyone asking for seconds. Ideal for busy weeknights or a casual get-together, these salads are as versatile as they are delicious. Bookmark these now, make them ASAP, and thank us later.

Close-up of a delightful broccoli salad with crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing. Mixed ingredients are visible in detail, showcasing the vibrant textures and colors of this fresh broccoli salad.
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re someone who enjoys a bit of heat in your meals, Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is a must-try. It’s a perfect balance between crunchy textures and spicy notes, making it an exciting addition to any meal. Sometimes, all it takes to turn a meal around is one vibrant side dish. Bookmark this one for those days when you need a quick, spicy kick to liven up your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A classic dish that never goes out of style, Macaroni Salad is the comforting side dish we all grew up loving. It’s incredibly versatile, fitting in at summer barbecues and potlucks alike. Whether you’re a fan of the timeless combinations or looking to add a personal twist, this salad waits for no one. Make room for this dish in your recipe box; it’s a crowd-pleaser that always invites a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Seven Layer Salad is a beautiful, layered spectacle that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Each layer brings its own unique texture and taste, creating a perfect blend in every bite. It’s ideal for gatherings where you want to impress with minimal effort. Keep this recipe handy for the next time you’re tasked with bringing a dish that promises both looks and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

A bowl of fresh red cabbage coleslaw garnished with herbs.
Red Cabbage Coleslaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those who favor tangy over sweet, Red Cabbage Coleslaw is a refreshing change of pace from its green cousin. It brings a vibrant color and a burst of freshness to any table, making it a must for barbecue season. Don’t wait until the next outdoor cookout to enjoy this; it’s a great way to add a crunch to everyday meals. Sharpen those knives and get ready to shred because this coleslaw is calling your name.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad takes the traditional chicken salad and turns it into something special. With the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans, it strikes a perfect balance that will have you coming back for more. It’s a great option for lunches when you’re tired of the same old sandwiches. Bookmark this for your next meal prep session; it’s sure to become a regular in your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top.
Waldorf Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Healthy, refreshing, and undeniably classic, Waldorf Salad is a true testament to salads that have stood the test of time. It offers a mix of textures and tastes that blend seamlessly, making every forkful an experience. Ideal for those looking to add some sophistication to their salad repertoire, don’t wait for a special occasion to whip this up. It’s a simple luxury that you can afford any day.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Packed with protein, veggies, and a rainbow of ingredients, Cobb Salad is your go-to when you want a salad that’s as filling as it is delicious. It’s practically a meal in itself, proving that salads can indeed be the main course. When you’ve had your fill of lighter fare and crave something hearty, this is the recipe you should turn to. There’s no going wrong with a classic.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Beetroot and Grilled Halloumi Salad

Sliced halloumi cheese, beets and greens in a white ceramic bowl.
Beetroot and Grilled Halloumi Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

The combination of sweet, earthy beets with the creamy, salty goodness of grilled halloumi makes this Beetroot and Grilled Halloumi Salad a must-try dish. It’s a feast for the senses, offering up a variety of textures and flavors that meld beautifully together. Perfect for when you want something a little out of the ordinary, this salad is an easy way to shake up your meal routine. Don’t overlook this gem; it might just become your new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Beetroot and Grilled Halloumi Salad

Avocado Salad

Avocado salad with dressing in a serving bowl.
Avocado Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Avocado Salad is not just a dish; it’s a bright, fresh canvas waiting for your personal touch. Its creaminess pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making it a versatile choice for any meal. It’s simple enough for a quick lunch yet elegant enough for a dinner side. If you haven’t yet found your go-to avocado recipe, consider this a sign to stop searching and start slicing.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Salad

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Close-up of a delightful broccoli salad with crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing. Mixed ingredients are visible in detail, showcasing the vibrant textures and colors of this fresh broccoli salad.
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This salad marries the crunch of fresh broccoli with a rich, indulgent dressing, striking a delicious balance. It’s a shining example of how salads can be both nutritious and comforting. Whether you’re bringing it to a gathering or enjoying it at home, Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing is bound to become a staple. Keep this one in mind for those times you want a side dish that’s both hearty and wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese pasta salad in a bowl with fresh tomatoes by the side.
Caprese Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With its bold colors and refreshing taste, Caprese Pasta Salad brings the best of both worlds to your table. It combines the beloved flavors of a classic Caprese with the satisfying heft of pasta. It’s a versatile dish that serves as a perfect side or a light main, ideal for those warmer months when tomatoes are at their peak. Don’t let summer pass by without giving this recipe a spin; it’s a seasonal favorite that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pasta Salad

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