Are you tired of salads that leave you feeling hungry and unsatisfied? Look no further! We’ve gathered 20 delicious and nutritious salad recipes to fill your bowl and fuel your body. From classic Caesar to international inspirations, these hearty salads are sure to become new favorites.
In this collection, you’ll find a variety of textures, flavors, and nutrients to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or filling and substantial, we’ve got you covered. Quinoa and chickpea power up your salad game, while grilled chicken and avocado add protein-packed punch. Roasted vegetables bring out their natural sweetness, and farro and feta transport you to the Mediterranean.
Take a look at our top 20 salads below and get ready to toss together a meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Quinoa and Chickpea Power Salad
This nutritious salad combines the protein-rich quinoa with fiber-filled chickpeas, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing, making it a perfect meal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, chickpeas, bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle parsley on top and season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (quinoa cooking time)
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Avocado
Elevate your classic Caesar salad game with the addition of grilled chicken and creamy avocado. This refreshing twist on a timeless favorite is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 heads romaine lettuce
– 1/2 cup freshly made Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, diced avocado, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Slice grilled chicken into strips and place on top of salad.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lentil and Roasted Vegetable Salad
This hearty salad combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the sweet, caramelized flavors of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner, this recipe is also a great way to use up any leftover veggies you may have on hand.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring lentils and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
3. While lentils cook, toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until vegetables are caramelized and tender.
4. Drain cooked lentils and add to roasted vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southwest Black Bean and Corn Salad
This flavorful salad combines the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine with the simplicity of a summer afternoon. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, and red bell pepper.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro and olive oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Asian Sesame Tofu Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the nutty goodness of sesame with the tender bite of tofu, all wrapped up in a delightful Asian-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Mixed greens or bed of spinach, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the tofu cubes to the blended mixture and stir to coat.
3. In a large bowl, combine the coated tofu with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the salad over mixed greens or spinach.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Mediterranean Farro Salad with Feta
This Mediterranean-inspired salad is a perfect combination of creamy feta, crunchy vegetables, and nutty farro. It’s an easy-to-make side dish that’s great for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cooked farro
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour the dressing over the farro mixture and toss to coat.
3. Crumbling feta cheese into small pieces, sprinkle it evenly over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (cooking time for farro only)
Kale and Sweet Potato Salad with Tahini Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the nutty goodness of kale, all tied together with a creamy tahini dressing. Perfect as a healthy side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast sweet potatoes for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, massage kale leaves with salt and your hands until tender. Add roasted sweet potatoes and toss to combine.
3. In a blender or food processor, blend tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad
Add a spicy kick to your salad routine with this Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad recipe! Crisp greens, juicy chicken, and creamy blue cheese come together in a flavorful and refreshing bowl.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 2 tbsp Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken breast, blue cheese, celery, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Buffalo wing sauce and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Greek Orzo Salad with Olives and Cucumber
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of orzo with the brininess of olives, the crunch of cucumber, and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, sliced olives, diced cucumber, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the orzo mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus cooking time for orzo)
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, roasted beet wedges, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting beets)
Spicy Thai Peanut Noodle Salad
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional noodle salads, this dish combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the bold flavors of Thailand. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, water, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, mixed vegetables, and peanut sauce. Toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
BBQ Ranch Chopped Salad with Crispy Chickpeas
Elevate your salad game with this creamy and crunchy BBQ ranch chopped salad featuring crispy chickpeas. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crispy chickpeas (see note)
– 2 tbsp ranch dressing
– 1 tsp BBQ seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and BBQ seasoning. Pour over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle crispy chickpeas and crumbled feta cheese (if using) on top of the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Warm Bacon and Spinach Salad with Poached Egg
Warm Bacon and Spinach Salad with Poached Egg
Summary: Elevate your salad game with this hearty and flavorful combination of crispy bacon, wilted spinach, and a perfectly poached egg. This warm salad is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
• 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 1 package fresh baby spinach leaves
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay the bacon slices on it.
3. Bake the bacon for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
4. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
5. Add the baby spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Poach the eggs by bringing a pot of water to a simmer and cracking in an egg. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny. Remove the egg with a slotted spoon and drain off any excess water.
7. Combine the cooked spinach mixture, crispy bacon, and poached egg on a plate. Drizzle with white wine vinegar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Salad
This vibrant salad captures the flavors of Mexico’s popular street corn vendors. With sweet corn, tangy crema, and a hint of spice, it’s perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked sweet corn kernels
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sweet corn kernels, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Stir in diced red onion and crumbled Cotija cheese.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (refrigeration)
Harissa Roasted Carrot and Lentil Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted carrots with the earthy flavor of red lentils, all tied together by a kick of harissa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked red lentils
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 2 tbsp harissa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss carrots with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, roasted carrots, and harissa. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon and Brown Rice Salad
A sweet and savory fusion of Japanese-inspired flavors, this recipe combines the richness of teriyaki salmon with the comforting warmth of brown rice. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
4. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the teriyaki glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Fluff cooked brown rice with a fork. Combine with chopped green onions to garnish.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This classic Italian-inspired pasta salad combines fresh flavors and textures with the richness of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne, or rotini)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 large ball of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, and sliced mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. In a small saucepan, reduce balsamic vinegar over medium heat until thickened and syrupy (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Pour reduced balsamic glaze over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Quinoa Salad
This flavorful salad combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the caramelized sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts, all tossed together with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and caramelized.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted Brussels sprouts, red onion, and garlic.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and a pinch of salt. Pour dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Garnish with chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tuna Nicoise Salad with Green Beans
This French-inspired salad gets a refreshing boost from the addition of green beans, making it a perfect light and satisfying meal for any occasion. With its rich flavors and textures, this Tuna Nicoise Salad is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of cooked green beans
– 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine tuna, green beans, cherry tomatoes, olives, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cobb Salad with Creamy Herb Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this classic Cobb Salad recipe, featuring a tangy and herby dressing that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons Creamy Herb Dressing (recipe below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Herb Dressing:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken, blue cheese, red onion, cilantro, and pecans.
2. Drizzle with Creamy Herb Dressing and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to rev up your salad game with these 20 delicious and nutritious recipes! From Quinoa and Chickpea Power Salad to Mediterranean Farro Salad with Feta, there’s something for everyone. Try Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Avocado or Lentil and Roasted Vegetable Salad for a protein-packed punch. For a vegan option, go for Asian Sesame Tofu Salad or Spicy Thai Peanut Noodle Salad. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh or hearty and filling, these salad recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
