You’ll keep coming back to these 17 salad recipes

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Ever find yourself revisiting the same few salad recipes until even the lettuce starts to look boring? Break the cycle with our lineup of 17 salads that are anything but monotonous. They’re the equivalent of finding an unexpected $20 in your pocket—exciting, refreshing, and surprisingly delightful. Let’s be honest, it’s time to give those leafy greens the glow-up they deserve. Ready to find your new go-to?

Seafood pasta salad in white serving bowl.
Seafood Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

California Steak Salad

California steak salad with strawberries and avocados.
California Steak Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Enjoy the vibrant flavors and robust textures that make this salad a true standout in any meal. California Steak Salad is the way to go when you’re craving something hearty yet refreshing. This salad combines succulent steak with fresh greens, offering a fulfilling balance of protein and veggies. It’s perfect for a summer dinner or a hearty lunch that won’t leave you feeling weighed down.
Get the Recipe: California Steak Salad

Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef

Taco salad in edible salad bowl.
Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Spice up your salad days with Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef. It packs the punch of a taco without any of the guilt, making it a favorite for both taco Tuesday and your diet plans. This bowl is a fiesta of flavors that’s both filling and refreshing, perfect for a no-fuss dinner or a festive gathering. Say goodbye to boring salads and hello to a dish that’s as vibrant as it is fulfilling. Keep coming back to this one; it’s a winner!
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef

Feta Beet Salad

Beet salad with crumbled feta, pistachios and fresh herbs on a plate with serving spoon.
Feta Beet Salad. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Ideal for an appetizer or a side, this salad promises to be as memorable as it is delicious. Feta Beet Salad is a colorful creation that marries the earthy tones of beets with the sharp kick of feta. This salad is a visual and gastronomic bliss that stands out in any meal setting. It’s great for those who love a bit of drama on their plate, with flavors as deep and rich as its colors. It’s not just a salad; it’s a statement piece.
Get the Recipe: Feta Beet Salad

Fruit Salad with Pecans and Honey Dressing

A closeup is shown of Thanksgiving Fruit Salad with apples, grapes, pears, oranges, and pecans.
Fruit Salad with Pecans and Honey Dressing. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

A vibrant, nourishing option that makes you feel good about indulging a little. Fruit Salad with Pecans and Honey Dressing is not just a dish but a celebration of texture and taste. It’s the perfect way to start your day or finish off a meal with something sweet that’s still wholesome. The crunch of pecans contrasts beautifully with the softness of ripe fruits, all brought together by a drizzle of honey dressing.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Salad with Pecans and Honey Dressing

Coronation Chicken Salad

A plate of coronation chicken salad.
Coronation Chicken Salad. Photo credit: The Honour System.

For a touch of regal flair at your table, try Coronation Chicken Salad. This salad is rich in flavors and history, making it a perfect dish for those who love a story with their meal. It’s creamy, with just the right amount of spice, and works well both as a sandwich filling and on its own. Bring a bit of majesty to your lunch or dinner with this beloved classic. It’s a royal treat without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Coronation Chicken Salad

Brussels Sprouts Salad

Brussels Sprouts Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dig into a bowl of this vibrant mix and watch the magic happen. Brussels Sprouts Salad is a crunchy revelation, turning the often underrated veggie into a star. This salad brings a fulfilling texture and nutty flavors that can complement any main dish or stand proudly on its own. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a hearty touch to their greens.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Salad

Cashew Aioli Mason Jar Salad

Three jars of salad, pouring dressing on top.
Cashew Aioli Mason Jar Salad. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Each layer is a discovery of taste that’s sure to keep your dining experience exciting. It’s not just a salad; it’s a portable feast in a jar. Cashew Aioli Mason Jar Salad is as fun to prepare as it is to eat. This salad layers vibrant greens, nuts, and a creamy aioli that hits all the right notes of flavor and texture. It’s perfect for on-the-go meals or a picturesque addition to your picnic spread.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Aioli Mason Jar Salad

Cabbage Apple Salad

Red cabbage slaw in a wooden bowl with a spoon.
Cabbage Apple Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Indulge in the crisp textures and fresh flavors that make this salad a perennial favorite. Cabbage Apple Salad combines the tangy crunch of cabbage with the sweet crispness of apples for a refreshing twist on traditional salads. This dish is a lively addition to your autumn table or a refreshing side during the warmer months. It’s simple yet surprisingly sophisticated.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Apple 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.

Simple ingredients, big flavors—that’s what Avocado Tomato Salad is all about. This salad brings together rich avocados and vibrant tomatoes in a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or as an accompaniment to any meal. With each bite, you get a creamy texture balanced with just the right touch of juiciness. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense salad that’s bound to be a staple in your recipe menu.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Tomato Salad

Winter Fruit Salad

Cranberry fruit salad in white bowls.
Winter Fruit Salad. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Perfect for holiday gatherings or a quiet, cozy breakfast, this salad offers a refreshing twist on seasonal eating. Winter Fruit Salad is a bright reminder of summer’s bounty during the chillier months. This dish combines fruits that thrive in winter, offering a sweet counterpoint to typically heavy seasonal meals. It’s a delicious way to bring a splash of color and a burst of flavor to your winter dining.
Get the Recipe: Winter Fruit Salad

GF DF Macaroni Salad

Close up of a glass bowl with macaroni salad in it with celery and red peppers and apple slices and an orange linen behind it.
GF DF Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and it’s completely accommodating to your dietary needs. GF DF Macaroni Salad reinvents the classic with a gluten-free, dairy-free twist that doesn’t skimp on taste. It’s the perfect choice for those who cherish the comforts of a good macaroni salad but need to navigate dietary restrictions. This dish brings joy to picnics and potlucks, ensuring everyone at the table can dig in without worry.
Get the Recipe: GF DF Macaroni Salad

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dig into the flavors of Mediterranean with Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. This dish offers a delicious mix of seafood and pasta, seasoned with herbs that transport you straight to the seaside. It’s light yet fulfilling, making it an ideal choice for a meal that needs to impress without too much effort. Whether it’s part of a festive spread or a simple family meal, this salad is sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Egg Salad

The Best Egg Salad on the Planet.
Egg Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Whether you’re dressing it up or keeping it classic, this salad is a reliable favorite that never goes out of style. Egg Salad is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for sandwiches, picnics, or a quick snack. This salad is all about simplicity and flavor, bringing back childhood memories with every creamy bite. It’s versatile, easy to whip up, and always a hit at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

Apple Pear Slaw

Bowl of fresh apple and pear slaw salad.
Apple Pear Slaw. Photo credit: Food Plus Words.

Enjoy the blend of textures and flavors that make this slaw a standout salad choice. Apple Pear Slaw is a crisp, refreshing twist on traditional slaw. This dish pairs the sweet flavors of apple and pear with a tangy dressing that’s sure to awaken your palate. It’s an excellent side dish for BBQs or as a lively addition to your winter meals.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pear Slaw

Cherry Salad

Cherry fluff salad in blue bowls with whipped cream.
Cherry Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Bright, sweet, and bursting with flavor, Cherry Salad is here to liven up your plate. It’s the perfect blend of sweetness and freshness that can brighten any meal, from a backyard BBQ to an elegant brunch. This salad is a lovely companion to both sweet and savory dishes, bringing a cheerful splash of red to your dining table. Dig into this delicious mix and let each bite remind you of the joy of simple, fresh ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad

Quick and Creamy Broccoli Apple Salad

Broccoli and shredded carrots on a mixing spoon.
Quick and Creamy Broccoli Apple Salad. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

When you need something quick and fulfilling, Quick and Creamy Broccoli Apple Salad is your answer. This salad blends the distinct flavors of broccoli and apple under a creamy dressing, creating a delicious contrast in your mouth. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a salad that’s both wholesome and indulgent. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a nutritious side dish in a hurry.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Creamy Broccoli Apple Salad

Seafood Pasta Salad

Seafood pasta salad in white serving bowl.
Seafood Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Think of sitting by the seaside, that’s the vibe Seafood Pasta Salad brings to your table. It’s a refreshing mix that’s perfect for those who love a hint of the ocean in their meal. Ideal for sunny day picnics or a quick, fulfilling lunch, this salad pairs well with light wines and laughter. Gather your friends or enjoy a quiet moment to yourself with this delicious dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to evoke some coastal daydreams.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

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