12 refreshing salads to balance out all those holiday cookies

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After all the holiday treats, it’s nice to have something fresh and light to balance things out. These refreshing salads are quick to prepare and packed with flavors that are both satisfying and easy on the stomach. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a light meal, these salads offer the perfect way to reset without missing out on flavor.

Close-up of a spoon holding seafood pasta salad garnished with parsley, with more salad in the background.
Seafood Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Salmon Salad

A grilled salmon fillet served on a bed of fresh salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and olives on a white plate.
Salmon Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This fresh and flavorful salad is a light option to balance heavier holiday treats. Packed with protein and fresh greens, it’s both practical and quick to prepare. Great for a light lunch or dinner, it offers a refreshing break. Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad

Green Bean Tomato Salad

A plate of green beans tossed with cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese, accompanied by a fork, on a white surface.
Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crisp green beans and juicy tomatoes come together in this bright, refreshing dish. It’s a great way to offset richer holiday meals with something light. Perfect as a side or a stand-alone snack, it’s simple and quick to assemble. Bursting with vibrant flavors in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

Apple Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, air-fried apples, red onions, nuts, and crumbled cheese.
Apple Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

A mix of crisp apples and fresh greens makes this salad a refreshing choice for any occasion. The natural sweetness of the fruit pairs perfectly with the light dressing. A simple way to incorporate more fresh produce during the holidays. Great as a side dish or a quick midday meal.
Get the Recipe: Apple Salad

Easy Radish Salad

A plate of radish salad with diced celery and a creamy dressing, accompanied by a glass of water and salt and pepper shakers.
Easy Radish Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This crisp salad features fresh radishes that add a light crunch to any meal. It’s perfect for balancing out the richness of holiday desserts and main courses. With minimal preparation time, it’s a practical option for busy days. Fresh and vibrant, it’s ideal for snacking or sharing.
Get the Recipe: Easy Radish Salad

Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Shrimp macaroni salad in a pink bowl with lemon wedges.
Shrimp Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This creamy salad blends tender shrimp with macaroni for a satisfying yet refreshing dish. It’s great for when you need something hearty but not too heavy. Perfect for balancing out the season’s indulgent sweets. A quick and flavorful addition to any meal or gathering.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad

Santa Fe Salad

A colorful chicken salad with avocado, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and lime slices, presented in a white bowl.
Santa Fe Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Packed with colorful veggies and bold flavors, this salad is a vibrant addition to any table. It’s a refreshing contrast to the season’s sweet treats, making it perfect for balance. Quick to prepare, it’s great for lunch or a light dinner. Versatile and full of texture, it’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Santa Fe Salad

Broccoli Slaw Salad

A plate of colorful broccoli slaw with shredded purple cabbage and carrots topped with dried cranberries and pine nuts, next to a red-checked napkin.
Broccoli Slaw Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This crunchy salad is a refreshing mix of broccoli and shredded veggies. It’s a great choice to lighten up heavier holiday meals. Quick and easy to make, it’s ideal for meal prepping or sharing at gatherings. A healthy way to incorporate more greens into your day.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Slaw Salad

Red Skin Potato Salad

Bowl of potato salad garnished with fresh herbs and bacon on a white background.
Red Skin Potato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Creamy and hearty, this potato salad features tender red skin potatoes in a light dressing. It’s perfect for offsetting sweet holiday treats with something more savory. Quick to prepare and a hit at any gathering, it’s a classic option with a refreshing twist.
Get the Recipe: Red Skin Potato Salad

Seafood Pasta Salad

Close-up of a spoon holding seafood pasta salad garnished with parsley, with more salad in the background.
Seafood Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Fresh seafood and pasta come together in this light and flavorful dish. A refreshing option that pairs well with the season’s indulgent meals. Perfect for a quick lunch or as part of a festive spread. Easy to prepare and packed with variety.
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Broccoli salad with bacon bits on a white oval plate, accompanied by a wooden serving spoon on a linen napkin.
Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This salad combines fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and a light dressing for a refreshing bite. It’s a great way to incorporate greens without feeling too heavy. Quick to put together, it’s perfect for balancing out sweet holiday cookies. A versatile choice for meals or snacks.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

A salad with strawberries, blueberries and feta cheese.
Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Fresh berries and a vibrant blueberry dressing make this salad a sweet yet light option. It’s perfect for cutting through the richness of holiday desserts. Quick to prepare and full of natural sweetness, it’s a refreshing addition to any table. A colorful and wholesome choice.
Get the Recipe: Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

Chopped Greek Salad

A fresh greek salad with tomatoes, feta cheese, cucumbers, olives, and peppers, served with a fork and a glass of water on the side.
Chopped Greek Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This salad is packed with fresh veggies, tangy olives, and feta cheese for a light and refreshing option. Perfect for balancing heavier meals, it’s quick to assemble and always a crowd-pleaser. A classic choice for those looking to keep things simple yet flavorful during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Chopped Greek Salad

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