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.

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

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.

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

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

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!)

Mexican taco salad cups on a plate.
Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

Close-up of a dish featuring a creamy yellow curry with chunks of vegetables, cashews, and raisins, garnished with fresh herbs.
Curried Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

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

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.

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

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

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

A croissant sandwich filled with buffalo chicken and blue cheese, served on a white plate with celery sticks in the background.
Buffalo Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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 bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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

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

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

A honey hot chicken salad with succulent fried chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber slices, and mixed greens, all topped with a creamy dressing.
Hot Honey Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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
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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