17 potluck essentials that outshine the same old salad

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Don’t want to bring the same tired pasta salad to your next potluck? These 17 potluck essentials, dishes that are will steal the show, and maybe even earn you a coveted recipe request or two!

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

Amish Potato Salad

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

Amish Potato Salad is a creamy, tangy delight that energizes any potluck with its classic flavors. Seasoned with mustard, sugar, and celery seed, it’s a side dish that has proven to be an enduring favorite at communal tables.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad

Cherry Salad

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

Cherry Salad is a refreshing side that’s a hit at every potluck with its simplicity and quick prep time. Six ingredients and five minutes are all it takes to contribute to a memorable spread.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad

7 Layer Salad

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

The 7 Layer Salad is an eye-catching addition to any potluck, layering flavors that have been celebrated for generations. Its presentation and taste ensure it’s far from dull.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad

Broccoli Crunch Salad

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

Broccoli Crunch Salad combines the fresh snap of broccoli with sweet cranberries and a savory crunch, making it a must-have at any picnic. It’s an easy-to-assemble side that adds vibrancy to the potluck spread.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Crunch 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 introduces a bold and creamy twist to the potluck lineup, for a far-from-ordinary side dish. Its unique flavor profile is a welcome departure from the classic coleslaw.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Coleslaw

Watergate Salad

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

Watergate Salad, with its simple five-ingredient mix, is simple to make. It serves as a luscious, fluffy side that’s always a potluck highlight and the first to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad

Cowboy Caviar

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

Cowboy Caviar is a colorful, fresh salad that’s vibrant on the table. It’s a robust mix of beans and vegetables that’s a staple at potlucks for its hearty and refreshing taste.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

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 creamy and sweet side that never fails to please the crowd at gatherings. It’s a potluck essential that combines simple ingredients to create an irresistible dish.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni 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 zesty and refreshing choice for summer cookouts. It offers an easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor, making it an appealing addition to any potluck.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Basil Orzo 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 brings an exciting crunch to potlucks with its combination of cabbage, veggies, and a flavorful dressing. It’s an inventive side that’s a welcome change from the usual fare.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Noodle Asian Salad

Cajun Pasta Salad

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

Cajun Pasta Salad adds a spicy flourish to the potluck table, mixing pasta with crisp veggies and a creamy, remoulade-style dressing. It’s a side that brings a lively kick to the usual lineup.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Pasta 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 playful, nostalgic dish that adds a burst of fun to any holiday or picnic. It’s a sweet addition that’s been a potluck staple for its whimsical charm.
Get the Recipe: Lime Jello Salad

Caprese Salad

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

Caprese Salad is a classic Italian side that combines rich mozzarella with juicy tomatoes. It’s a simple yet exquisite addition that’s always welcome at a potluck.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Salad

Chickpea Salad

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

Chickpea Salad is a vibrant, veggie-packed side that’s not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make. It’s a nutritious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for health-conscious potluck goers.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Salad

Pea Salad

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

Pea Salad is a sweet and tangy dish that brings a creamy texture to the potluck table. It’s a make-ahead salad that’s long been a favorite addition to gatherings from cookouts to holiday feasts.
Get the Recipe: Pea Salad

Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower

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

Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower is coated in a creamy dressing and sprinkled with cheese and bacon. It is an irresistible side that adds a traditional touch to any potluck.
Get the Recipe: Amish Broccoli Salad with Cauliflower

Beet and Blueberry Salad

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

Beet and Blueberry Salad is a festive combination of earthy beets, sweet blueberries, and crisp salad turnips, all tied together with a blueberry vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing side that’s perfect for a Memorial Day potluck.
Get the Recipe: Beet and Blueberry Salad

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