15 salad recipes everyone rushes to grab

Photo of author

| Published:

Everyone’s going wild for these 15 salad recipes, and it’s not hard to see why! Each one is packed with ingredients that keep everyone rushing to grab a plate like it’s the last piece of pizza at a party. These salads are more than just a side; they’re the star of the show at any meal. Who knew greens could steal the spotlight so effortlessly? Try these out, and you might just have to start locking your fridge!

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. 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 craving a kick with your greens, this Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is the one for you. It’s crisp, it’s got heat, and it’s a refreshing change from the usual fare. Perfect as a side dish or for those afternoons when you want something that wakes up your palate. Just the right mix of spice and crunch makes it irresistible.
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.

Classic Macaroni Salad takes you back to family picnics and sunny days. This salad doesn’t need a fancy occasion—it’s perfect for any day you need a reliable side. It’s a comforting classic that’s simple yet has its unique charm. Bring it to a potluck, and watch it disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

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.

When you think of a salad that bridges the gap between sweet and savory, think Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. It’s filled with contrasting flavors and textures that come together harmoniously. Enjoy it on its own or stuffed in a sandwich; it’s versatile. It’s the kind of meal you reach for when you can’t decide between fruit or protein.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken 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.

If you’re the type who loves a bit of surprise in their meal, then a Seven Layer Salad might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a visually appealing dish that combines a variety of textures and tastes, all stacked into one dish. The beauty of it is that you can make it ahead of time, and it actually gets better as the flavors meld together. It’s a go-to choice for potlucks because it’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer 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.

A Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing is a stellar choice for those who prefer a heartier green. It combines the earthiness of broccoli with a rich, indulgent dressing. A crowd-pleaser at barbecues and perfect as a standalone meal. It makes eating your veggies anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

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.

This salad is a timeless American classic known for its fulfilling array of ingredients. It packs in everything you want from a meal with layers of greens, proteins, and a punchy dressing. Cobb Salad is a full meal in a bowl that’s versatile enough for lunch or dinner. Just toss it together, and you’ve got a no-fuss, all-in-one experience.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dig into the Italian countryside with Italian Pasta with Salami. It brings together robust pieces of salami and pasta in a way that’s unpretentious yet full of character. Serve it up for a casual dinner or save it for your next outdoor event. It’s straightforward, filling, and just darn good.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

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

Red Cabbage Coleslaw stands out with its vivid colors and tangy taste. This is a side dish that complements a variety of mains, pulling its weight in both texture and visual appeal. It’s a crunchier take on the traditional slaw. Not to mention, it’s probably one of the easiest ways to add some color to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those who love Italian flavors but want something lighter, Pizza Salad is the perfect compromise. Imagine your favorite pizza toppings generously scattered atop a bed of greens. It’s an unexpected twist on pizza night that leaves you feeling refreshed. Plus, it’s a fun way to convince the kids to eat their salads.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Waldorf Salad

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

Inspired by the classic New York hotel, Waldorf Salad combines crisp apples, celery, and walnuts in a creamy dressing. It’s been a hit since the 1890s, and its appeal hasn’t faded. Elegant and refreshing, it’s suited for a classy lunch or a simple weekday dinner. The Waldorf is a testament to timeless tastes.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Avocado Salad

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

When you want something that’s both simple and loaded with nutrients, Avocado Salad is hard to beat. It focuses on the rich, creamy taste of avocado, complemented by a mix of fresh veggies. This salad is both easy to make and versatile, making it perfect for a quick lunch or as a side. Plus, it’s a heart-healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad

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

Caprese Pasta Salad merges Italy’s beloved Caprese flavors with the heartiness of pasta. It’s vibrant, easy to throw together, and a sure crowd-pleaser at any summer gathering. A hint of basil pesto gives it a fresh twist. It’s a refreshing take on traditional pasta dishes.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pasta 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.

This salad offers a striking combo of earthy beets and salty, grilled cheese. Its flavors are bold and the textures fulfilling, making it a fine choice for a light lunch or side dish. It’s especially great for those who love a bit more substance in their salads. Plus, Beetroot and Grilled Halloumi Salad is as colorful as it is tasty.
Get the Recipe: Beetroot and Grilled Halloumi Salad

Easy Caprese Salad

Caprese salad in a serving bowl, with tomatoes, oil and balsamic glaze nearby.
Easy Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When simplicity is key, Easy Caprese Salad is what you reach for. Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil come together in a harmony of simplicity. It’s a classic Italian salad that never fails to please, regardless of the occasion. And the best part? It comes together in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A marriage of pasta and grilled goodness, Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies is hearty and full of flavor. This one’s for days when you want a robust salad that can stand as a meal on its own. Healthy, fulfilling, and chock-full of your favorite grilled vegetables. It’s a versatile option that’s just as suitable for meal prep as it is for a family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.