Make Something Incredible With 29 Salads From Fridge Extras
Got random bits in the fridge? Good news—this list of 29 salads makes that chaos look like a win. These recipes turn almost-forgotten extras into something you’ll actually want to eat. It’s like a fridge clean-out but with better results than usual. You’ll be proud, confused, and a little impressed.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a game changer when you want to bring something exciting to the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Just grab those leftover corn and mix them up with whatever’s in the fridge to whip this up. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works great either as a side dish or a main attraction.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Potato Salad

For those days when you find yourself with some potatoes and a handful of random veggies, Potato Salad comes to the rescue. It’s a classic that never fails, whether you’re aiming for a quick lunch or a side dish that complements any meal. The best part is its flexibility; throw in what you have and watch it work its magic. No fuss, no muss, just plain good eating.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad
Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)

Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!) turns leftovers into fun and bite-sized wonders. It’s the perfect answer to the eternal question of how to make mealtime both exciting and easy. These little cups are not only a breeze to make but also pack a punch in terms of taste and convenience. Great for snacks or a light meal, they promise to be a hit every single time.
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)
Macaroni Salad

With Macaroni Salad, say goodbye to wondering what to do with that extra pasta. This dish is all about turning simple ingredients into something that’s both filling and heartwarming. It’s ideal for those who want a no-stress option that’s still fulfilling. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a foolproof way to keep everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Kala Chana Chaat

Kala Chana Chaat is your go-to for a healthy and spicy kick. It’s proof that nutritious can also be incredibly tasty and easy to make. This chaat is all about getting creative with what you’ve got and enjoying every bite. A light yet fulfilling option that fits perfectly into any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Kala Chana Chaat
Dense Bean Salad

When you’re looking at a bunch of cans of beans and not sure what to do, Dense Bean Salad is your answer. It’s straightforward, healthy, and totally customizable to match whatever you’ve got in the fridge. This salad is a solid choice for a filling meal that doesn’t skimp on nutrition. Plus, it’s super quick to throw together.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad
Curried Chicken Salad

Curried Chicken Salad offers a fantastic way to spruce up leftover chicken. It combines simple ingredients with a touch of spice for a fresh take on chicken salad. Ideal for sandwiches or to eat on its own, this salad is all about making the most of what you have. You’ll be surprised at how a few spices can transform a meal.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

This is a fancy-sounding dish that’s actually straightforward. Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing is perfect for when you want something light yet fulfilling, with a touch of sophistication. The dressing and shrimp come together in a way that’s sure to impress. And the best part is, it’s easier to make than you’d think.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
Laccha Pyaz

Laccha Pyaz is a simple yet delicious addition to any meal. This recipe takes ordinary onions and transforms them into something spectacular. It’s the perfect side dish that adds a crunch and a punch of flavor. Easy to prep, it’s a refreshing change from the usual sides.
Get the Recipe: Laccha Pyaz
Buffalo Chicken Salad

Turning up the heat, Buffalo Chicken Salad brings excitement to your table with minimal effort. It’s a fun twist on classic chicken salad, adding a bit of a kick. Perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their meals, this salad is as fulfilling as it is easy to make. Just mix it up, and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad
Grilled Paneer Salad

Grilled Paneer Salad is for those days when you need a quick protein fix with a lot of styles. It’s a fantastic way to use up any paneer lying around. This salad pairs well with pretty much any meal, offering a light yet protein-packed option. And it looks as good as it tastes, which is always a bonus.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Paneer Salad
Healthy Chicken Salad

If you’re after something that’s both light and fulfilling, Healthy Chicken Salad could be your new favorite. It’s all about tossing together what’s available and enjoying a guilt-free meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Perfect for lunches, quick dinners, or meal prep for the week. It’s a win-win in any scenario.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad
Cabbage Salad

Cabbage Salad is the dark horse of salads, often overlooked but surprisingly versatile. It’s crunch time with this one, offering a fresh texture and taste that pairs well with any meal. It’s a simple mix that packs a nutritional punch, proving that simple can indeed be interesting. An easy way to add some greens to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

When you’re in the mood for something hearty but still on the healthy side, Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing fits the bill. This dish brings together a variety of textures and tastes that are bound to keep you coming back for seconds. It’s the kind of salad that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. And that creamy dressing? It’s the cherry on top.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
7 Layer Salad

With a 7 Layer Salad, you create something fresh and vibrant with layers of goodness. Each level offers a distinct texture and ensemble of tastes. It’s the ultimate fix for a relaxed meal or a side dish at dinner. Just layer, chill, and serve to enjoy a mix of flavors.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad
Cobb Salad

Throwing your odds and ends into a Cobb Salad works wonders. It packs in variety and nutrition for a fulfilling meal any day. This classic is a breeze to adapt with what you’ve got in your kitchen. It’s the busy person’s dream for a straightforward, hearty dish.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad
Cucumber Peanut Salad

For a refreshing change, try Cucumber Peanut Salad with its satisfying crunch. It’s effortlessly prepared with simple leftovers. The nuts bring a surprising twist that’s both fun and nutritious. It’s just the thing when you’re craving a light yet crunchy bite.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Peanut Salad
Honeycrisp Salad

A Honeycrisp Salad is your answer for something quick, light, and pleasing. It’s a hassle-free dish that’s as speedy to make as it is to disappear from your plate. Enjoy crisp textures that make any casual meal feel a bit more special. It’s a great go-to for a no-stress, refreshing salad.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad
Kachumber

Brighten up your meal with a Kachumber, full of vibrant, fresh bites. It’s a simple mix that instantly adds color and a refreshing touch to your dining table. Ready in a snap, it’s perfect for a quick, health-conscious addition to any meal. It’s the ideal complement to heavier dishes, balancing out your meal beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber
Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Amp up your mealtime with a Hot Honey Chicken Salad, where sweet meets heat. It’s your chance to transform leftover chicken into a brand-new dish. In just minutes, you’re set with a meal that breaks the monotony. It’s a smart choice for those after something different and easy.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad
Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Bring some color to your plate with a quick Red Cabbage Coleslaw. It can easily accompany a wide range of meals, adding a crunch. It’s not only simple to whip up but also adds a pop of color. A great way to appreciate the humble cabbage in a new light.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Kick things up a notch with a Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. It’s got that kick that wakes up any meal and it’s a cinch to put together. When time is short, this salad delivers a powerful punch. It’s a lively addition for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

For a filling option, Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad doesn’t disappoint. It marries heartiness with health, making it perfect for a substantial side or a lighter main course. The roasting process enhances its natural tastes, ensuring you get a wholesome meal. It’s especially good for those meal prep days.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad
Seven Layer Salad

This salad is all about building flavors in a simple and spectacular way. With Seven Layer Salad, you get an assortment of tastes with every forkful. It’s the perfect dish when you’re looking to impress without the stress. Layer it up, chill, and you’ve got a dish that’s ready to please.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad
Waldorf Salad

A Waldorf Salad is the kind of classic that never gets old, especially when adding a little crunch to your lunch. Nutty and sweet flavors come together to create a fulfilling dish. It’s an effortless way to throw together a light yet comforting meal. Grab this recipe when you want an easy, yet delicious side.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad
Tomato,Cucumber,and Onion Salad

Whip up a Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad when you’re in need of a quick, fresh dish. It highlights simple ingredients, making for a bright and tasty salad. It’s perfect for those days when you need something on the table fast. Use those lingering vegetables to create something simple and full of fresh tastes.
Get the Recipe: Tomato,Cucumber,and Onion Salad
Copycat Big Mac Salad

Copycat Big Mac Salad is a playful take on a fast-food favorite without any guilt. It’s clever, simple, and evokes that classic burger taste in salad form. Perfect for when those cravings hit but you still want to keep things light. It’s a fast and fun meal that’s sure to amuse and satisfy.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

This salad tosses together sweet and nutty notes for a lunchtime win. Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a lifesaver when you need something tasty on the go. It’s straightforward, with a balance of flavors that keeps things interesting. Choose this when you’re after something quick, fresh, and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Pizza Salad

Get the best of both worlds with a Pizza Salad; it’s as wild as it sounds. It takes the joy of pizza and spins it into a crunchy, fresh salad. Whether it’s a casual dinner or game night, this dish offers a lighter take on a beloved classic. Easy to customize, it’s all about having some fun with your meal.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad
About the Author

Hey there! I’m Mandy
Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.
She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.
She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.
