Eat Clean And Feel Good With 29 Salad Recipes

When your body’s craving something fresh, these 29 salad recipes come through every time. They’re crisp, colorful, and never boring—think more than just lettuce in a bowl. Whether it’s a light lunch or a full-on dinner situation, you’ll feel good without feeling like you’re missing out.

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.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

A bowl of Mexican street corn salad garnished with lime wedges and cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Corn takes center stage with a combination of textures that are anything but boring. Mexican Street Corn Salad flips the traditional into something fresh and modern. It’s easy to share with a group and perfect if you’re craving bold flavors. This salad is fun to grab when you’re in the mood for something loaded with personality.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Cucumber Peanut Salad

A bowl of chopped cucumber salad mixed with nuts and fresh herbs.
Cucumber Peanut Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Crunchy cucumbers meet unexpected layers of depth with nuts taking the stage. Cucumber Peanut Salad adds variety to a typical salad lineup. It’s the sort of side dish you can serve or even keep as a quick lunch. You’ll find this one is about texture with a little twist on simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Peanut Salad

Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe

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

Everyday tacos are turned into handheld salads that you can carry anywhere. Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe makes it exciting to enjoy flavors without the usual mess. It’s a fun twist if you like things neat and portioned. You’ll like how everything fits perfectly into its own little edible bowl.
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe

Kachumber

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

Vegetables come together in their simplest form but still manage to shine. Kachumber proves that raw ingredients can hold their own on the plate. It’s refreshing and works alongside plenty of main dishes without overpowering anything. You’ll love how it’s the quickest addition when time is short.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

A bowl of orzo salad with mixed vegetables, including olives, tomatoes, and spinach, garnished with herbs.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Orzo combines with flavors that feel light but still filling. Mediterranean Orzo Salad blends simple ingredients into something that can stand on its own or be a complement. It’s an option that doesn’t feel heavy but still leaves you satisfied. Great for moments when you want a salad that feels like a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo 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.

Pasta pairs with meat to create something heartier than the usual salad. Italian Pasta with Salami balances convenience with a little extra richness. It’s good when you’re looking for a dish that’s just as filling as it is enjoyable to eat. This one’s perfect to mix up with what you already have in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

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.

Onions take the spotlight with layers of texture in every bite. Laccha Pyaz introduces raw simplicity but with a technique that makes it exciting. It’s a fast choice for anyone who doesn’t want a complicated salad but needs something bold on the table. You’ll appreciate this for times when you want minimal effort that still pops.
Get the Recipe: Laccha Pyaz

Blackened Shrimp Salad

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

Shrimp brings a smoky depth to a plate where greens get an upgrade. Blackened Shrimp Salad keeps things fresh but with a little kick from the seafood. It’s good for moments when regular salads feel too predictable and you want something with protein. Great for lunch or dinner when you want variety in texture and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken steps outside its normal role, paired with just the right amount of crunch. Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad makes the ordinary feel special in a balanced way. It’s a salad that works as a meal and doesn’t leave you wanting. Great when you need something reliable but still fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Kala Chana Chaat

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

Chickpeas bring energy and texture to a dish that has plenty of spice. Kala Chana Chaat turns simple legumes into something dynamic. It’s quick and hits the spot when you don’t have time for anything fancy but still want layers of flavor. This salad stays versatile for those moments when you need a side or snack.
Get the Recipe: Kala Chana Chaat

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.

Burgers are transformed into bowl form but keep the iconic flavor intact. Copycat Big Mac Salad makes fast food feel homemade without losing personality. It’s fun when you’re craving something familiar but don’t want an actual burger. Perfect for quick meals that still remind you of the original thing.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Pasta Primavera

A colorful Pasta Primavera salad with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and spinach in a blue bowl.
Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pasta steps into a salad role with a mix that’s light yet filling. Pasta Primavera takes the basic concept of veggies and adds some heft. This is the option when you want something on the table fast but still wholesome. It works as a quick meal or side when you’re juggling a busy schedule.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

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.

Beans create substance in a dish that doesn’t feel heavy. Dense Bean Salad focuses on nutritious ingredients while still being appealing. It’s a great option for when you need energy but don’t want anything overwhelming. You’ll find it’s easy to throw into your day without much prep.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

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

Cucumber gets a spicy upgrade in a surprising way. Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad moves the usual crunch into a bold direction. It’s for anyone who likes food with a bit of kick but still light enough to enjoy anytime. Perfect for adding variety to basic meals without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Cabbage Salad

Cabbage salad in a white bowl with chips in the background.
Cabbage Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Cabbage stays simple but proves it can be versatile too. Cabbage Salad keeps the focus on freshness with just enough crunch to make it stand out. Perfect for anyone who doesn’t want anything fussy but still wants layers of texture. Grab this for moments when simplicity fits the mood.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad

Pizza Salad

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

Pizza flavors meet salad textures in a way that feels fun and new. Pizza Salad twists the idea of greens by giving them a casual upgrade. It’s for those moments when you want something easy and quick but still loaded with familiar elements. You’ll like how it brings together two favorite types of meals.
Get the Recipe: Pizza 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.

Paneer steps up as the main ingredient in this greens-based dish. Grilled Paneer Salad is somewhere between hearty and light, making it work for meals or sides. You’ll like how grilling adds depth while keeping the salad refreshing. Great when you’re looking for something different without getting complex.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Paneer Salad

Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

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

Veggies stay true to their natural form with nothing too fancy added. Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad gives you simplicity without feeling bland. It’s a no-fuss option that pairs well with just about anything or works on its own. This is the salad you rely on when you need something quick but fresh.
Get the Recipe: Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

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

Bold colors make this coleslaw look exciting while keeping the crunch intact. Red Cabbage Coleslaw finds the right balance between texture and taste. Ideal for barbecues, picnics, or whenever you need something straightforward with just a little pop. A great way to keep things fresh but still familiar.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top.
Waldorf Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fruit meets crunch in a combination that holds its own over time. Waldorf Salad balances freshness without getting too busy with extras. It’s a smart choice for anyone seeking something different than typical greens-based options. Perfect for moments when you want variety without overthinking the dish.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Caesar Salad

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

A classic that has stayed popular for good reason. Caesar Salad finds simplicity but doesn’t shy away from bold flavors with every forkful. Perfect for a range of occasions whether it’s dining solo or serving for guests. You’ll like how it feels timeless yet still fresh every single time.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

7 Layer Salad

A salad bowl filled with vegetables and peas.
7 Layer Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layers make this easy-to-serve salad stand out visually and flavor-wise. 7 Layer Salad isn’t complicated but still manages to look special when placed on the table. It’s a good choice for gatherings or for moments when variety is key. A fun way to organize common ingredients without unnecessary fuss.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer 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.

Taco flavors meet the heartiness of pasta in this quick dish. Taco Pasta Salad keeps things flavorful while feeling versatile enough for different occasions. This is the go-to for anyone who likes familiar themes but wants them in salad form. It’s just as easy to prep as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta 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.

Beets turn into something unexpected when paired with protein and texture. Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad brings a mix that’s colorful and rewarding without overthinking the ingredients. Great for light meals that don’t feel boring or repetitive. A fast way to keep things healthy but still full of variety.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Grilled vegetables step up the flavor game in this hearty option. Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies finds a balance between freshness and something that feels like it could be a full meal. Perfect for lunches or taking on the go without extra hassle. This is one that adds options to your regular salad lineup.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

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.

Shrimp pairs with a surprise sweet twist in this dish. Mango Shrimp Salad adds variety with unexpected combinations that still work seamlessly. It’s a fun pick for those looking for something unique during meals that don’t feel too heavy. Keeps things energetic and offers layers without overloading.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

A salad with arugula, roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and a drizzle of creamy dressing on a white plate.
Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sweet potatoes and chickpeas create balance in a salad that feels earthy but vibrant. Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad works for those moments when texture matters more than anything. It’s an option that packs energy without being overwhelming or too filling. A smart go-to for different schedules and cravings.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea 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.

Stacked ingredients keep this salad exciting from top to bottom. Seven Layer Salad might take simple items but turns them into a full dish that feels fun to enjoy. It’s manageable for gatherings or just for switching up weekday meals. A practical pick when you want variety without overcomplicated prep.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer 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.

Chicken gets a light makeover into something that feels energizing. Healthy Chicken Salad mixes proteins with greens in a way that stands out compared to typical salad setups. Easy to make but still flexible enough for lunch or dinner this dish delivers balance. Perfect for anyone focused on options that fit into busy routines.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken 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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