13 Thanksgiving Salad Ideas You Can Make Ahead Without Worry

Thanksgiving just runs better when you’ve got a few dishes you can prep early, and any of these 13 salads really help with that. Each one adds a fresh option without making you feel rushed while everything else is cooking. They work for any kind of gathering, whether you’re hosting a crowd or keeping it simple but still want something ready to pull from the fridge.

Fresh Beet Salad

There’s just something about the vibrant red of beets that makes this Fresh Beet Salad look like it belongs on a Thanksgiving table. The earthy sweetness of the beets pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp greens. Plus, this is one of those salads that still tastes amazing even after sitting out.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Hearty Dense Bean Salad

When you need a dish that feels truly filling without trying too hard, this Hearty Dense Bean Salad is the answer. Packed with protein and bold flavors, it holds its own alongside hearty Thanksgiving classics. You can make it ahead of time, and somehow it tastes even better the next day!
Get the Recipe: Hearty Dense Bean Salad

Crunchy Celery Salad

If you’re aiming to balance all the heavy dishes on your table, this Crunchy Celery Salad is your secret weapon. It’s light, crisp, and has a freshness that cuts through richer foods. The crunch in every bite is so satisfying, and it keeps its texture even after being made in advance.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Fresh Green Salad

Not every Thanksgiving dish needs to be complicated, and this Fresh Green Salad proves just that. Sometimes, all you really need is a simple, refreshing salad to balance the meal. It’s bright, clean, and has just enough crunch to add variety to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Green Salad

Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Holiday spreads are all about balance, and this Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing has it all. The texture, the flavor; it’s the kind of salad that everyone keeps going back for. Not to mention, you can make it the day before, and the dressing only gets better as it settles in.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Layered Seven Layer Salad

You know a dish is special when people stop just to admire it before digging in. This Layered Seven Layer Salad does exactly that. It’s colorful, fun, and each layer brings a different flavor and texture to the table. It definitely stands out in the best way possible at any Thanksgiving feast.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

A little sweet, a little savory, and a whole lot of comforting, this Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad is one of those recipes that feels perfect for fall. It’s hearty enough to act as a side but still light enough to give your meal some variety. Plus, the roasted sweetness is unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

Colorful Antipasto Salad

If you want to shake up the usual spread and bring something unexpected to the table, this Colorful Antipasto Salad does just that. With bold, Mediterranean flavors and a mix of textures, it’s a crowd pleaser that adds a fresh twist to the holiday lineup. It also looks gorgeous sitting out!
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad

Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

There’s something special about the sweetness of cranberries paired with savory flavors, and this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad captures that balance perfectly. It’s a little festive and a little comforting, and it’s so easy to prep ahead when you’re juggling all the big Thanksgiving dishes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Crisp Cucumber Tomato Salad

Even during a rich, indulgent meal like Thanksgiving, it’s nice to have something light on the table. This Crisp Cucumber Tomato Salad is so refreshing, with juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers bringing just the right amount of simplicity to the meal. You’ll love how quick it is to pull together too.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Cucumber Tomato Salad

Tangy Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Some dishes just have a way of brightening up the table, and this Tangy Red Cabbage Coleslaw does exactly that. The deep purple color makes it pop, and the tangy flavors bring a refreshing bite that pairs so well with heavier foods. It’s a nice change of pace from traditional holiday fare.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

There’s no mistaking the sweetness and crunch of Honeycrisp apples, and they shine in this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad. Tossed with fresh greens, it feels like a true celebration of fall flavors. Whether you include it as an appetizer or a side, it’ll quickly become a Thanksgiving favorite.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Tangy Chickpea Salad with Roasted Peppers

If you want something that’s bold, colorful, and full of flavor, this Tangy Chickpea Salad with Roasted Peppers is a must-try. The roasted peppers bring a smoky sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing. It’s one of those salads you’ll want to save room for, even after the main meal.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Chickpea Salad with Roasted Peppers