12 small batch salads for when you’re not feeding a crowd

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Sometimes you just need a simple salad without a fridge full of leftovers. These small-batch options are perfect for when you’re cooking for yourself or a couple of people. They’re fresh, easy to throw together, and just the right size to keep things fuss-free.

A bowl of shrimp pasta salad garnished with lemon slices and chopped vegetables.
Shrimp Macaroni 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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