21 salads so flavorful, you won’t even miss the ranch dressing

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If you’re looking to mix up your usual salad routine, these 21 options are a great place to start. Forget about needing ranch dressing to make your salad exciting. Each one is bursting with flavors that stand out on their own. You’ll love the variety and how easy they are to put together. It’s a delicious way to enjoy more veggies and feel great about what you’re eating.

Salmon salad on white plates and lettuce greens in a bowl.
Salmon Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Watermelon and Feta Salad

Low angle shot of a bowl of watermelon salad with kalamata olives and feta cheese.
Watermelon and Feta Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

The ideal salad to enjoy on a hot day or as a unique side at your next barbecue. This salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the tang of feta cheese for a refreshing, summer-ready dish. The juicy watermelon pieces pair perfectly with the creamy feta, creating a delightful contrast that’s both light and satisfying. Mint leaves add an extra burst of freshness, making every bite a crisp and invigorating experience.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon and Feta Salad

Cherry Salad

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

Featuring vibrant cherries, this salad offers a sweet and tart flavor that stands out from typical greens. The juicy cherries blend seamlessly with mixed greens and a light dressing, creating a harmonious and delicious balance. Each bite is packed with flavor, making it a great choice for a quick and nutritious meal. Perfect for adding a burst of color and taste to your salad routine.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad

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.

Bringing together the earthy taste of beets and the tangy flavor of feta cheese, this salad is a treat for the taste buds. The roasted beets provide a rich, deep color and a slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy feta. A handful of arugula adds a peppery note, and a drizzle of vinaigrette ties it all together. This salad is both visually appealing and satisfyingly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Feta Beet Salad

Coronation Chicken Salad

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

A hearty and exotic salad that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. This salad offers a royal twist with tender chicken pieces mixed with a creamy, spiced dressing. The combination of curry powder, yogurt, and a touch of mango chutney creates a unique and flavorful experience. Adding in some raisins and almonds gives it a delightful texture and sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Coronation Chicken Salad

Cashew Aioli Mason Jar Salad

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

Perfect for meal prepping, this salad layers fresh ingredients in a mason jar for convenience and taste. Crisp veggies, protein-packed chickpeas, and a creamy cashew aioli dressing make this salad both nutritious and delicious. The cashew aioli adds a rich and satisfying flavor that complements the fresh vegetables perfectly. Simply shake and enjoy for a quick and healthy meal on the go.
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.

Combining crunchy cabbage and sweet apples, this salad is a refreshing and satisfying choice. The crisp texture of the cabbage pairs perfectly with the juicy apple slices, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. A light vinaigrette ties the flavors together, making it a great option for a side dish or a light main course. It’s a simple yet flavorful salad that’s perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Apple Salad

Beet Cucumber Salad with Feta and Dill

beet cucumber salad is shown on a pink plate with a wood cutting board and dill.
Beet Cucumber Salad with Feta and Dill. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

A vibrant and tasty salad that’s great for any meal. This salad features a refreshing combination of beets, cucumbers, and feta cheese, all enhanced with fresh dill. The crisp cucumbers and earthy beets create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The feta adds a creamy tang, while the dill provides a fresh, herbaceous note.
Get the Recipe: Beet Cucumber Salad with Feta and Dill

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.

This simple yet delicious salad combines creamy avocado with juicy tomatoes for a fresh and satisfying dish. The avocado adds a rich texture, while the tomatoes bring a burst of flavor. A sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice upgrade the taste even further. It’s a quick and easy salad that’s perfect for any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Tomato Salad

Salmon Salad

Salmon salad on white plates and lettuce greens in a bowl.
Salmon Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Packed with protein and flavor, this salad features tender pieces of salmon atop a bed of fresh greens. The salmon is complemented by a light and tangy dressing that enhances its natural flavors. A mix of crunchy vegetables adds texture and variety to the dish. It’s a hearty and nutritious option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Wheat Berry Salad with Tomato & Tuna in a bowl.
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A nutritious and filling salad that’s perfect for a main course. This salad combines nutty wheat berries with tender tuna and juicy tomatoes for a hearty and flavorful dish. The wheat berries add a satisfying chewiness, while the tuna provides a boost of protein. Fresh tomatoes add a burst of juiciness, making every bite enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Cobb Salad

A large platter of cobb salad.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

A classic favorite, this Cobb salad features a mix of crisp lettuce, tender chicken, and savory bacon. Hard-boiled eggs, avocado, and blue cheese crumbles add richness and depth to the dish. A light vinaigrette ties all the ingredients together, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s a hearty salad that’s perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

A plate with Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes.
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Combining the sweetness of grilled peaches with the acidity of tomatoes, this salad offers a unique and delicious flavor combination. The grilled peaches add a caramelized note that pairs perfectly with the fresh tomatoes. A light dressing enhances the natural flavors, making each bite a delight. It’s a great salad for summer gatherings or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Nigerian Salad

nigerian egg salad.
Nigerian Salad. Photo credit: Food Plus Words.

Perfect for adding a touch of international flair to your meal. This colorful salad is a mix of fresh vegetables and unique ingredients that offer a burst of flavor. It features crisp lettuce, carrots, and cucumbers, combined with sweet corn and hard-boiled eggs. A light and tangy dressing brings all the elements together, creating a delicious and satisfying dish.
Get the Recipe: Nigerian Salad

Peach Tomato Caprese Salad

Sliced peaches, tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella slices on a tray.
Peach Tomato Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

A twist on the traditional Caprese, this salad combines juicy peaches with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella. The sweetness of the peaches pairs beautifully with the creamy mozzarella and the acidity of the tomatoes. A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties everything together, making it a flavorful and elegant dish. It’s perfect for a refreshing summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Peach Tomato Caprese Salad

California Steak Salad

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

Featuring tender slices of steak, this salad is both hearty and delicious. The steak is complemented by fresh greens, avocado, and a tangy dressing. Cherry tomatoes and red onions add a burst of flavor and color. It’s a filling and flavorful option that’s perfect for a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: California Steak Salad

Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)

Overhead view of hand lifting a spoon of salad.
Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad). Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This traditional salad combines a variety of root vegetables for a hearty and nutritious dish. Beets, potatoes, and carrots are mixed with pickles and peas, creating a unique blend of flavors and textures. A light vinaigrette dressing ties it all together, making it a tasty and filling option. It’s a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in one dish.
Get the Recipe: Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Combining the flavors of pizza in a fresh salad, this dish features pepperoni, mozzarella, and tomatoes. Mixed greens and a light Italian dressing bring all the flavors together. It’s a fun and tasty way to enjoy the essence of pizza without the carbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Sesame Shrimp and Watermelon Salad

A white plate with shrimp, watermelon, cucumber, shredded cabbage, and grated carrots.
Sesame Shrimp and Watermelon Salad. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

This salad combines the unique flavors of sesame shrimp and sweet watermelon for a refreshing dish. The shrimp adds a savory element, while the watermelon provides a juicy sweetness. A light sesame dressing ties everything together, creating a delightful balance of flavors. It’s a great option for a light and tasty meal.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Shrimp and Watermelon Salad

Big Mac Salad

A person holding serving spoons in a bowl of Big Mac salad.
Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

All the flavors of a classic Big Mac in a healthier salad form, this dish features ground beef, pickles, and a special sauce. Crisp lettuce and tomatoes add freshness and crunch. It’s a fun and satisfying way to enjoy the taste of a Big Mac without the bun. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Strawberry Salad

A close up image of a Strawberry Salad with greens, feta cheese and fresh strawberries.
Strawberry Salad. Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen.

Featuring fresh strawberries, this salad offers a sweet and refreshing flavor. The strawberries are complemented by mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. A sprinkle of nuts adds a satisfying crunch. It’s a simple and delicious salad that’s perfect for any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Salad

Sesame Salmon Bowl

Sesame Salmon Bowl with cucumber, avocado, sesame seeds, red cabbage, green onions and spring mix in a white bowl.
Sesame Salmon Bowl. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

This hearty salad bowl features tender pieces of salmon with a flavorful sesame dressing. Fresh vegetables add crunch and color, while a base of rice or quinoa makes it filling and nutritious. It’s a delicious and well-rounded meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The sesame dressing ties all the ingredients together, making every bite enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Salmon Bowl

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