21 make-ahead salads for Mom

Photo of author

| Published:

Mother’s Day deserves a delicious and impressive meal, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your sanity. This collection of 21 stunning salads is here to prove that fresh, flavorful, and show-stopping dishes.

Pistachio salad topped with nuts and cherries.
Watergate Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

7 Layer Salad

Seven layer salad in a bowl.
7 Layer Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

7 Layer Salad is a classic choice for a make-ahead Mother’s Day dish that has stood the test of time. Assembled with layers of vibrant veggies and a creamy dressing, it’s a showstopper at any event and can be prepared in advance for hassle-free hosting.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad

Pea Salad

Pea salad in a blue bowl.
Pea Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Pea Salad is a charmingly retro, make-ahead dish perfect for Mother’s Day, featuring a creamy and tangy dressing. Its ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for a celebratory spread, especially when you’re looking to minimize day-of efforts.
Get the Recipe: Pea Salad

Amish Macaroni Salad

Bowl of Amish macaroni salad with some on a spoon.
Amish Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Amish Macaroni Salad is a make-ahead wonder, blending sweet and creamy flavors for a side dish that’s sure to please on Mother’s Day. With its uncomplicated yet delightful mix of ingredients, it’s a reliable hit for any family gathering.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad

Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower and Bacon

Amish broccoli salad with broccoli, cauliflower, cheese and bacon.
Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

The Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower and Bacon is a make-ahead, hearty salad that combines the crunch of fresh veggies with a rich, creamy dressing, cheese, and bacon. It’s a robust addition to Mother’s Day that can be prepared beforehand to ease your workload.
Get the Recipe: Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower and Bacon

Cajun Pasta Salad

Cajun pasta salad of noodles with celery and bell pepper.
Cajun Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Cajun Pasta Salad is a make-ahead dish that brings a spicy kick to your Mother’s Day table. Tossed with a creamy, remoulade-style dressing, it’s a vibrant side that’s ready to serve when you are, allowing more time to spend with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Pasta Salad

Ramen Noodle Asian Salad

Three white bowls filled with ramen noodles and vegetables.
Ramen Noodle Asian Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Ramen Noodle Asian Salad is an excellent make-ahead option for Mother’s Day, featuring a medley of cabbage and veggies with an Asian-inspired dressing. The added crunch of ramen noodles makes it a favorite for cookouts and easy gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Noodle Asian Salad

Texas Caviar Dip

Texas caviar on a tortilla chip.
Texas Caviar Dip. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Texas Caviar Dip is a make-ahead, colorful salad that’s perfect for Mother’s Day. Its blend of black-eyed peas, beans, and vegetables in a sweet and tangy dressing can be prepared in advance for a no-stress celebration.
Get the Recipe: Texas Caviar Dip

Watergate Salad

Pistachio salad topped with nuts and cherries.
Watergate Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Watergate Salad, known for its ease and five simple ingredients, is a make-ahead dish that’s perfect for Mother’s Day. This salad is a nostalgic choice that’s ready to serve whenever you need it.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad

Broccoli Slaw

A bowl of Broccoli Slaw
Broccoli Slaw. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Broccoli Slaw is a make-ahead, creamy salad that’s bound to revitalize your Mother’s Day BBQ. The combination of crunchy veggies and a rich dressing makes it a memorable addition to your summer spread, allowing you to impress with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Slaw

Beet and Blueberry Salad

A plate with beets and blueberries on it.
Beet and Blueberry Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

The Beet and Blueberry Salad is a make-ahead dish that’s as visually striking as it is flavorful, making it a perfect addition to your Mother’s Day menu. Paired with a blueberry vinaigrette, it’s a refreshing choice for any summer holiday.
Get the Recipe: Beet and Blueberry Salad

Cherry Salad

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

Cherry Salad is a make-ahead favorite that’s ideal for Mother’s Day. With only six ingredients and a quick preparation time, it’s a refreshing choice for beating the heat and enjoying the festivities.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad

Broccoli Crunch Salad

A close shot of a fork full of broccoli salad.
Broccoli Crunch Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Broccoli Crunch Salad is a make-ahead option that’s perfect for a Mother’s Day picnic. Combining crisp broccoli with dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon, it’s a dish that promises both convenience and flavor for your outdoor gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad

Lime Jello Salad

Piece of lime jello salad topped with whipped cream and a cherry.
Lime Jello Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Lime Jello Salad is a make-ahead, fun green dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia to Mother’s Day. Its simplicity and vibrant color make it a delightful addition to any holiday meal or picnic.
Get the Recipe: Lime Jello Salad

Easy Potato Salad

Potato and egg salad in a blue striped bowl.
Easy Potato Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Easy Potato Salad is a make-ahead classic that’s perfect for Mother’s Day, made with simple ingredients like potatoes, eggs, and sweet gherkins. It’s a reliable side dish that’s always welcome at the table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Potato Salad

Blue Cheese Coleslaw

Top view of a bowl of coleslaw with blue cheese on top.
Blue Cheese Coleslaw. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Blue Cheese Coleslaw is a make-ahead, creamy coleslaw with a tangy twist that’s ideal for Mother’s Day. This distinctive take on a classic recipe is simple to make and offers a bold flavor that’s sure to stand out.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Coleslaw

Raw Beet Salad

Grated beets, apples and carrots on a spoon.
Raw Beet Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Raw Beet Salad is a vibrant, make-ahead salad that’s perfect for Mother’s Day, combining fresh beets with apples and carrots. This simple, vegan side dish is as visually appealing as it is pleasing to the palate.
Get the Recipe: Raw Beet Salad

Lemon Basil Orzo Pasta Salad

Orzo pasta salad in a blue flowered bowl.
Lemon Basil Orzo Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Lemon Basil Orzo Pasta Salad is a make-ahead, refreshing choice for Mother’s Day, requiring only a few ingredients. This light and flavorful salad is a perfect accompaniment for any summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Basil Orzo Pasta Salad

Chickpea Salad

Healthy chickpea salad in a blue bowl.
Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Chickpea Salad is a make-ahead, vibrant dish loaded with fresh veggies, making it a perfect side for Mother’s Day. It’s a simple, vegan, and gluten-free option that’s as gorgeous as it is effortless to prepare, ideal for summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Salad

Caprese Salad

Caprese salad with tomatoes and mozzarella cheese topped with basil.
Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

A make-ahead Caprese Salad with cherry tomatoes is an effortlessly elegant side for Mother’s Day. The classic combination of juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella is a timeless choice that’s ready to serve at your convenience.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Salad

Orange Fluff Salad

Orange fluff salad in a bowl.
Orange Fluff Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Orange Fluff Salad is a creamsicle-inspired, make-ahead dish that’s perfect for Mother’s Day. Combining oranges, cottage cheese, Jello, and Cool Whip, this vintage recipe is a sweet side that’s ideal for a cookout or holiday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Orange Fluff Salad

Amish Potato Salad

Creamy potato salad with eggs and mayonnaise.
Amish Potato Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Amish Potato Salad is a make-ahead, creamy dish that’s a staple for Mother’s Day celebrations. Seasoned with mustard, sugar, and celery seed, it offers a classic flavor that’s a hit at any potluck or holiday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad

Leave a Comment

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