If I Had A Dollar For Every Time These 29 Salads Rescued Me, I’d Eat Out

Some days feel like a race from morning to night. The kitchen stays quiet until the very last minute. Quick fixes become the only option that makes sense. These 29 salads have stepped in more times than you can count, and if a dollar came in every time they rescued the day, eating out would be easy.

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Copycat Big Mac Salad

Close-up of a salad featuring ground beef, sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced onions, topped with a creamy dressing.
Copycat Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Think about how many times you’ve wished for fast food but didn’t want to fully commit. That’s exactly the role Copycat Big Mac Salad plays when hunger strikes. It’s all the flavors you crave but served in a smarter way. Make it once, and you won’t even think about ordering out.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Somehow, there’s always room for something fresh that’s quick to pull together. A bite of this salad feels like it just gets everything right. Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing feels like a go to you’d keep in your back pocket. It makes eating in feel like the better choice every time.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Green Goddess Salad

A close-up of a plate with bright green guacamole, chopped vegetables, and tortilla chips on the side.
Green Goddess Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes you just need something that feels simple, clean, and packs flavor. That’s where Green Goddess Salad quickly steps in to save the meal. It brings that “why eat out?” kind of satisfaction without all the fuss. You’ll remember this one every time you’re staring at a menu and second-guessing.
Get the Recipe: Green Goddess Salad

Grilled Paneer Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring grilled tofu cubes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and leafy greens, all drizzled with a creamy dressing.
Grilled Paneer Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

When nothing else is working, it’s time for something hearty but still fresh. That’s where Grilled Paneer Salad steps up to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of salad that feels like a full-on meal without the hassle of going to a restaurant. You’ll be glad you found this one when you’re stuck deciding what’s next.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Paneer Salad

Healthy Chicken Salad

Close-up of a salad with grilled chicken, strawberries, blueberries, pecans, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing on a bed of leafy greens.
Healthy Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If all else fails, sometimes the simple option ends up being what you wanted all along. Healthy Chicken Salad does just that and makes you wonder why you ever thought about eating out instead. It’s like the answer you didn’t know you needed sitting right in your kitchen. A reminder that good food doesn’t need a lot of steps.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

Green Salad

A close-up of a fresh green salad with mixed leafy greens, cucumber slices, and pecans on a plate with a gold fork.
Green Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s something refreshing about keeping things light but still flavorful. That’s exactly what the Green Salad manages to do every single time. It’s as if salads like this one were meant to step up when eating out doesn’t feel like the move. It always finds a way to fit right into whatever you’re craving most.
Get the Recipe: Green Salad

Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, grated cheese, and dressing.
Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

You’ve probably had this one a hundred times, but there’s something about it that can pull things together. Caesar Salad works like a quick solution to all kinds of kitchen dilemmas. Somehow, it feels like opting in for homemade makes so much more sense here. It’s practically that reliable friend in salad form.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Meals that know when to be big on flavor can save you from runaway takeout habits. Italian Pasta with Salami fits right into those moments when you want something filling but fresh. Its boldness doesn’t feel heavy, which means it’s perfect when you’re staying in. Eating in doesn’t feel so bad when things taste like this.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Chicken Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken pieces, croutons, and grated cheese on a bed of romaine lettuce. Dressing is served on the side.
Chicken Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sometimes it’s not about being fancy, but sticking to what works. That’s exactly what Chicken Caesar Salad does when you need something fast. It skips the overthinking and gets straight to what you actually want on your plate. It might just make you forget ordering out was even an option.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad

Kachumber

Kachumber salad in a grey bowl.
Kachumber. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Fresh, crunchy, and uncomplicated, some options just stand out in a pinch. That’s where Kachumber steps in like a little kitchen hero. It’s basic, but that’s its strength it does exactly what you hoped for without trying too hard. You’ll look back at it and wonder why you didn’t make it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber

Dense Bean Salad

A spoonful of chickpea salad with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, parsley, and feta cheese being served from a bowl.
Dense Bean Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

There’s something downright reliable about meals built for staying in. That’s exactly what Dense Bean Salad delivers when it steps up to the plate. It’s one of those dishes that doesn’t make excuses it just works, plain and simple. Don’t be surprised if you end up making it twice in a week.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Big flavor meets dependable in options like this one it simply delivers every time. Cobb Salad doesn’t skip a beat when it’s time for lunch or dinner to feel right. It’s kind of like comfort food but with a lighter touch that doesn’t weigh you down. Suddenly eating at home doesn’t feel like settling at all.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Mango Shrimp Salad

A bowl of shrimp ceviche with diced mango, avocado, red onion, red pepper, and cilantro, with a spoon inside.
Mango Shrimp Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

There are moments where bold and fresh combine to make eating at home feel just right. That’s the kind of energy Mango Shrimp Salad brings to the table. You won’t even question why you never ordered out once you’ve tried this. Meals like this just hit differently when you’re staying in.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Taco Salad

A taco salad served in an edible tortilla bowl, topped with ground meat, lettuce, black beans, diced tomatoes, avocado, and shredded cheese.
Taco Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Big flavors don’t always need takeout to show up, sometimes it’s the simplest meals that pull it off. That’s exactly what this Taco Salad manages to do without jumping through hoops. It feels like a smarter way to get what you’re craving minus the extra steps. Don’t be surprised if this one’s a repeat request.
Get the Recipe: Taco Salad

Asian Slaw

A bowl of colorful coleslaw with shredded purple and green cabbage, carrots, chopped peanuts, and greens, mixed with dressing.
Asian Slaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Meals that combine crunch and bold taste often save the day when eating out feels unnecessary. Asian Slaw delivers that ease and energy without overcomplicating anything. Every bite feels like it just belongs at the table, proving takeout isn’t the answer. It’s like a shortcut to making dinner or lunch a little better.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

Potato Salad

Close-up of creamy potato salad with chopped celery and black pepper seasoning.
Potato Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If had a dollar for every time this classic came to the rescue, it’d be a fortune. Potato Salad steps up when eating out seems like the only option. It’s simple yet dependable, with a creamy and comforting vibe. The kind of dish that checks all boxes without trying too hard.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad

Roasted beetroot and feta salad in a bowl, with a light pink cloth around it.
Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When eating out feels tempting, Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad comes through. Its mix of earthy and rich flavors pairs beautifully without overwhelming. It’s a thoughtful dish that feels balanced yet vibrant. Definitely worth relying on when whipping up something quick is needed.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad

Kala Chana Chaat

Kala chana chaat served in a blue bowl.
Kala Chana Chaat. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Why head out when Kala Chana Chaat answers the call for something filling yet fresh? Its bold and tangy combination creates a perfect fast option. This is the type of dish you’d be glad to have around again and again. Works well whenever staying in feels like a better choice.
Get the Recipe: Kala Chana Chaat

Pizza Salad

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

Let’s be honest, Pizza Salad feels like an MVP when you’re avoiding takeout. It’s fun, hearty, and doesn’t skimp on flavors. All the comfort of pizza but transformed into a salad that’s easy to throw together. Perfect when you’re sticking to staying home but want something delicious.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Laccha Pyaz

Close-up of thinly sliced red onions, marinated with herbs and spices, placed on a white plate.
Laccha Pyaz. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Skipping eating out becomes easier when Laccha Pyaz makes an appearance. It’s vibrant in texture, quick to put together, and adds that little punch to the table. Sometimes the simplest combinations are all you need to make meals pop. You’ll probably come back to it more times than you think.
Get the Recipe: Laccha Pyaz

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Close-up of a delightful broccoli salad with crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing. Mixed ingredients are visible in detail, showcasing the vibrant textures and colors of this fresh broccoli salad.
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Think about those moments when going out feels like too much effort Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing steps in perfectly. It’s fresh yet has a comforting creaminess that balances everything out. The kind of option that feels reliable and surprisingly effortless to pull off. You won’t even miss dining out.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When ordering out feels tempting, Macaroni Salad is always ready to step up. It’s comforting, easy to throw together, and doesn’t take much to impress. Somehow it manages to hit just the right mix of flavors and textures. Great to keep in mind for those don’t-wanna-go-out days.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

A bowl of fresh red cabbage coleslaw garnished with herbs.
Red Cabbage Coleslaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Eating out isn’t the vibe, Red Cabbage Coleslaw finds a way to fit in every time. It’s crunchy, colorful, and surprisingly refreshing with minimal effort. Somehow it makes every bite feel worthwhile without being overwhelming. You might end up making it more than once, guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Quinoa Salad

Close-up of a quinoa salad with chickpeas, chopped cucumber, parsley, red onion, and a light dressing, with a spoon partially visible.
Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Opting to stay home instead of heading out gets easier thanks to Quinoa Salad. It’s wholesome, uncomplicated, and feels like a breath of fresh air when you need quick comfort. You don’t have to overthink it, just toss and enjoy. This one sneaks into rotations without a doubt.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Salad

Taco Pasta Salad

A bowl of fusilli pasta mixed with ground beef, black beans, chopped tomatoes, and herbs, garnished with lime wedges.
Taco Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving something hearty without going out, Taco Pasta Salad delivers just that mix you’re looking for. It’s bold yet easy, hitting your cravings without complicating things. Feels like a win every time you’ve got it on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Every time staying in seems like the better call, Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad has your back. Crisp, fiery, and straight to the point, it perks up your meals instantly. It’s perfect when you aren’t looking for anything heavy but still need something exciting. Definitely a go-to on lazy days.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe

Mexican taco salad cups on a plate.
Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Why head out when you can count on Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe to shake things up, It’s ingenious, bite-sized, and ridiculously easy to whip up. Perfect for when your dinner plans need to be quick but creative. You might just make these a regular thing.
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe

Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Chunks of tomato, cucumber, and onion in a bowl.
Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s something refreshing about reaching for Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad when eating out isn’t in the plans. It’s simple, straightforward, and feels like a good reset. Works beautifully on its own or alongside other dishes. Makes staying home an easy choice every time.
Get the Recipe: Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Resisting the urge to grab takeout gets easier with Seven Layer Salad in the mix. Packed with layers that feel thoughtful yet unpretentious, it’s a solid pick. Just by looking at it, you’re reminded how easy homemade can be. This one’s a frequent lifesaver, without a doubt.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

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.

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