Think salads are boring? These 17 recipes ditch the tired iceberg lettuce and mix things up with grains, fruits, pasta, and more. Whether you’re craving something fresh, hearty, or a little unexpected, there’s a salad here that’ll surprise you.
Layered Salad
This layered salad is perfect for spring—crunchy romaine, fresh veggies, and lots of bacon, all tossed with a creamy mayo dressing. It’s super easy to make and always the first thing to disappear at a potluck. You can even make it ahead and keep it in the fridge ’til you’re ready to dig in. Trust me, it’s one of those dishes everyone ends up asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Layered Salad
Carrot Raisin Salad
This carrot raisin salad is super refreshing with crunchy shredded carrots, cabbage, and sweet raisins, all smothered in a tangy lemon-mayo dressing. It’s perfect to throw together for lunch and makes for a tasty, feel-good side!
Get the Recipe: Carrot Raisin Salad
Mexican Macaroni Salad
Mexican Macaroni Salad is one of those super easy, super tasty dishes that never sticks around long. It’s got fresh veggies, a taco-style dressing, and the kids go nuts for it. Perfect for parties, cookouts, whatever—just make a big batch because it disappears fast!
Get the Recipe: Mexican Macaroni Salad
Grape Salad
This easy Grape Salad is a sweet, creamy side that’s perfect for any get-together. Kids go crazy for it, and it’s usually one of the first things to disappear. Don’t be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe—you might want to make a double batch just to be safe. It’s that good.
Get the Recipe: Grape Salad
Cabbage Apple Salad
This crunchy Cabbage Apple Salad is perfect for spring! Red cabbage and Golden Delicious apples come together with a tangy dressing for a sweet, zesty bite. It’s super easy to throw together, and it makes for a refreshing lunch. Trust me, you’ll be making this one all season long!
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Apple Salad
Cashew Aoli Mason Jar Salad
This Cashew Aioli Mason Jar Salad is a total game changer—healthy, Whole 30-approved, and super tasty! It’s got fresh ingredients and creamy cashew aioli, making it the perfect salad that’s light but still packed with flavor. Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch, it’ll keep you feeling good all day. Try it and you’ll be hooked!
Get the Recipe: Cashew Aoli Mason Jar Salad
Avocado Tomato Salad
This avocado tomato salad is proof that salad is way more than just lettuce and dressing. It’s packed with veggies, romaine, and a fresh dressing you blend up in no time. Perfect for a quick, light meal or a side at your next BBQ! Spring on a plate!
Get the Recipe: Avocado Tomato Salad
Shirazi Salad
Shirazi Salad is super fresh and full of flavor, and it only takes a few ingredients to whip up. It’s the perfect side to add a little zing to any meal. Healthy, tasty, and seriously easy, you’ll find yourself making it all the time. Plus, it’s always a hit at any get-together!
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad
Ranch Pasta Salad With Bacon
This Ranch Pasta Salad with Bacon is super creamy, loaded with flavor, and always a hit at summer get-togethers. It comes together in one bowl in about 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for weekend dinners or backyard BBQs. Don’t be surprised if it disappears fast!
Get the Recipe: Ranch Pasta Salad With Bacon
Peach Tomato Caprese Salad
This Peach Tomato Caprese Salad is packed with juicy peaches, fresh basil, creamy mozzarella, and crisp lettuce. It’s super refreshing and perfect for a laid-back spring meal or snack. You’ll love how the sweetness of the peaches pairs with everything!
Get the Recipe: Peach Tomato Caprese Salad
Summer Orzo Salad
This orzo salad is super light and fresh—just what you want on a hot summer day. It’s got crunchy cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and tender orzo all tossed in a tangy homemade vinaigrette. The kids will be all over it, and it comes together in no time. Perfect for cookouts, picnics, or just keeping things easy at dinner!
Get the Recipe: Summer Orzo Salad
Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta
This Mediterranean White Bean Salad is packed with creamy beans, juicy tomatoes, and crumbled feta for a refreshing, laid-back dish. It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for those warm spring days when you want something light but filling!
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta
Quinoa Salad
This salad’s got it all—quinoa, crunchy cucumbers, chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing, all topped off with pistachios for a little crunch. It’s fresh, filling, and seriously satisfying. Perfect for lunch or as a side with dinner. Honestly, once you try it, you’ll wanna make it on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Salad
Hearty Penna Dutch Potato Salad
Pennsylvania Dutch Potato Salad is that creamy, tangy Amish classic that always hits the spot. It’s got a warm, slightly sweet dressing, just the right amount of crunch, and that old-school flavor everyone loves. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or just a laid-back Sunday dinner. Honestly, it’s one of those dishes that disappears fast—so maybe make a little extra.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Penna Dutch Potato Salad
Big Mac Salad
This Big Mac Salad is super easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s a filling meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a quick lunch. Plus, it’s a fun twist on the classic Big Mac, and you’ll love how simple it is to throw together!
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad
Beet Salad with Feta
This beet salad with feta is super easy to whip up and full of flavor. It’s great as a quick meal, a tasty side, or even a light appetizer. Plus, it’s perfect for adding a pop of color to any table! You’ll love how fresh and vibrant it feels, no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad with Feta
Festive Mexican Rice Salad
This Mexican Rice Salad is a fun mix of rice, beans, corn, and a zesty dressing that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect side dish or main course for any get-together. Plus, it’s super easy to make and always gets a lot of compliments!
Get the Recipe: Festive Mexican Rice Salad