13 delicious salad recipes beyond iceberg and dressing

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Tired of the same old salads with just lettuce? Try these 13 delicious salad recipes that go beyond the basics. Each one offers a fresh twist with exciting ingredients and flavors. They are perfect for adding variety to your meals without the usual greens.

Image shows a closeup head on shot of Harvest Quinoa Salad in a glass bowl.
Harvest Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Vegan Couscous Salad

Image shows a closeup of an enameled cast iron pan filled with a vegan couscous salad.
Vegan Couscous Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This couscous salad features a mix of vibrant vegetables and hearty grains for a satisfying and nutritious meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for those looking for a healthy, filling option. The blend of textures and flavors makes it an excellent choice for a fresh and delightful dish.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad

Tomato Quinoa Salad

Image shows shows a closeup of Tomato Quinoa Salad in a small white bowl.
Tomato Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Fluffy quinoa combines with crisp, fresh vegetables in this light and nutritious salad. It’s simple to prepare ahead of time, making it a great choice for busy days when a quick, healthy meal is needed. This salad offers a refreshing and wholesome option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Quinoa Salad

Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

Image shows a Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad in a wooden bowl closeup.
Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cool cucumbers and juicy tomatoes are tossed in a light vinaigrette, creating a crisp and refreshing salad. This dish brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your plate, making it a perfect choice for a light and healthy meal. The fresh taste makes it a standout option for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious side.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

Goat Cheese and Dried Cherry Salad

Image shows an overhead shot of a goat cheese and dried cherry salad in a wooden bowl.
Goat Cheese and Dried Cherry Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Creamy goat cheese and sweet dried cherries blend together in this flavorful salad for a unique and satisfying dish. It’s easy to make and ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a special treat. The combination of ingredients provides a memorable and delicious choice for a healthy meal.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese and Dried Cherry Salad

Tropical Fruit Salad

Image shows a closeup of a Tropical Fruit Salad.
Tropical Fruit Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

A colorful mix of pineapple, mangoes, bananas, and other tropical fruits makes this salad a refreshing and juicy choice. It’s an excellent way to add a touch of vibrant flavor to your meals. This fruit salad brings a bright and delicious twist to any dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Tropical Fruit Salad

Harvest Quinoa Salad

Image shows a closeup head on shot of Harvest Quinoa Salad in a glass bowl.
Harvest Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Roasted butternut squash, tangy feta cheese, and dried cranberries come together in this hearty quinoa salad. Smoky red peppers add extra flavor, creating a rich and satisfying dish. This salad is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Quinoa Salad

Spinach Orzo Salad

This photo shows a spinach orzo salad in a square glass bowl sitting on a black granite countertop.
Spinach Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Orzo pasta mixed with fresh herbs makes this salad both light and elegant. The soft pasta and crisp vegetables create a satisfying contrast, offering a refined and easy option. This dish provides a special touch and a healthy choice for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Orzo Salad

Lemon Kale Salad

Image shows a fork holding a bite of lemon kale salad with the full bowl behind it.
Lemon Kale Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Kale is tossed with a zesty lemon dressing and Parmesan cheese in this simple and fresh salad. It’s a great way to enjoy greens in a flavorful and light way. This salad adds a burst of refreshing flavor to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Kale Salad

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Image shows a fork holding a bite of shaved brussels sprouts salad with a clear bowl containing the rest of the serving behind it.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Shredded Brussels sprouts with a light vinaigrette and crunchy nuts offer a new and tasty way to enjoy this vegetable. It’s a healthy and flavorful option that changes up how Brussels sprouts are typically served. This salad delivers a crisp and satisfying choice for a nutritious dish.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Cucumber Salad

Image shows a close up of a summer Cucumber Salad in a clear bowl.
Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Crisp cucumbers mixed with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing make this salad refreshing and hydrating. It’s a simple and light choice that’s perfect for a quick, healthy meal. This salad offers a revitalizing option that’s easy to prepare and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad

Hearts of Palm Salad

Silver bowl with a veggie filled hearts of palm salad.
Hearts of Palm Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Tender hearts of palm with crisp vegetables in a light vinaigrette create a fresh and flavorful salad. It’s ideal for a light lunch or as a tasty side dish. This salad provides a clean and refreshing choice that complements any meal.
Get the Recipe: Hearts of Palm Salad

Avocado Tomato Salad

Image shows a wooden bowl containing avocado tomato salad shown from overhead and sitting on a picnnic table.
Avocado Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes are combined with a homemade dressing for a flavorful and vibrant salad. It’s a fresh and appealing option for a different take on salads. This combination delivers a satisfying and tasty addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Tomato Salad

Spinach Caprese Salad

Image shows a Spinach Caprese Salad in a wooden salad bowl.
Spinach Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Baby spinach topped with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and savory prosciutto creates a classic and delicious combination. It’s a light and satisfying choice that brings Italian flavors to your plate. This salad is a delightful and nutritious option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Caprese Salad

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