14 side salad recipes that don’t play second fiddle
Salads don’t have to be an afterthought, and these 14 side salad recipes prove it. They add freshness and balance to any meal. With a mix of simple greens, grains, and veggies, there’s something here for just about any dinner.
Arugula and Sweet Potato Salad with Goat Cheese
You’ll want to bookmark this arugula salad with goat cheese ASAP. Peppery arugula, tangy goat cheese, and roasted sweet potatoes come together for a perfect balance of flavors and textures that works as an appetizer or side. Get the recipe: Arugula and Sweet Potato Salad with Goat Cheese
Strawberry Spinach Salad
This strawberry spinach salad is summer in a bowl, with sweet berries, fresh greens, and a double hit of strawberry from the vinaigrette. It goes great with whatever’s on the grill and always disappears fast at picnics or potlucks. Get the recipe: Strawberry Spinach Salad
Mediterranean Cucumber Salad
This Mediterranean cucumber salad keeps it fresh with crunchy veggies, chickpeas, and a homemade dressing that hits just right. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and takes almost no effort to throw together. Get the recipe: Mediterranean Cucumber Salad
Waldorf Salad
This Waldorf salad is a spin on the California Pizza Kitchen classic. It’s loaded with crisp greens, fruit, veggies, and just the right amount of flavor. Get the recipe: Waldorf Salad
Arugula Salad with Parmesan
This easy rocket salad is packed with peppery goodness and dressed in a homemade honey-sweetened lemon balsamic vinaigrette. Topped off with pine nuts and freshly shaved parmesan, it’s a winner every time. Get the recipe: Arugula Salad with Parmesan
Mango Salad
This is an easy, fresh, and delicious mango salad recipe with a flavorful homemade dressing. Vegetables and fruit mingle for a flavor that is uniquely delicious. Get the recipe: Mango Salad
Greek Pasta Salad
This Greek pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. A vibrant mix of crisp veggies, tangy feta, and a bright herb dressing transforms simple pasta into a flavorful dish. Get the recipe: Greek Pasta Salad
Cowboy Caviar Salad
Spin the Texas caviar dip into a really yummy cowboy caviar salad by adding rice. It features the most delicious chili maple dressing. A great meal prep option. Get the recipe: Cowboy Caviar Salad
Asian Chopped Salad With Sesame Dressing
Craving something fresh, crunchy, and light? Try this Asian chopped salad with a zesty sesame dressing. It’s the perfect quick and delicious plant-based meal or side dish. Get the recipe: Asian Chopped Salad With Sesame Dressing
German Cucumber Salad
This refreshing cucumber salad is a timeless favorite, featuring creamy dressing and fresh herbs. A classic from German cuisine, it’s enjoyed across Central and Eastern Europe for its simple, satisfying taste. Get the recipe: German Cucumber Salad
Cilantro Three Bean Salad
Ideal for healthy meal prep, this three bean salad tastes better and better. You cannot get enough of protein-packed beans, crunchy veggies, and a cilantro salsa dressing. Get the recipe: Cilantro Three Bean Salad
Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad
So much texture and fresh flavor. This quinoa tabbouleh salad is a delicious side dish for BBQs and potlucks and a lovely light lunch or dinner. Get the recipe: Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad
Spinach Berry Salad with Sweet Poppy Seed Dressing
This spinach berry salad is bright, fresh, and just a little bit sweet. Juicy berries, creamy feta, and crunchy nuts get tossed with a tangy poppy seed dressing for a combo that hits all the right notes. Get the recipe: Spinach Berry Salad with Sweet Poppy Seed Dressing
Apple Walnut Salad
This apple walnut salad is bright, crisp, and packed with the flavors of fall. Mixed greens are topped with juicy apples, candied nuts, pepitas, dried cranberries, red onions, and feta, all tossed in an apple cider vinaigrette. Get the recipe: Apple Walnut Salad