Ranch Dressing Lovers Rejoice With 29 Creative Salad Ideas

When ranch is the main event, the salad is just along for the ride, and these 29 options make sure it’s a great one. Whether it’s crisp, hearty, or packed with texture, each one is just another reason to reach for the bottle. There’s no wrong way to enjoy a salad when the dressing does all the heavy lifting.

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.

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.

If you’re looking for something lively for your next meal, this salad hits the spot. It’s a great twist on traditional sides and is perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re planning a quick lunch or a special dinner, Mexican Street Corn Salad brings a bold flare to the table. Pair it with grilled dishes for an unforgettable meal.
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.

Everyone has their favorite version, but this Potato Salad stands out. It’s a classic that goes well with anything from a backyard BBQ to a quiet dinner at home. Serve it alongside your main dish for a comforting addition to any meal. It’s a must-have recipe that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Potato 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.

Inspired by the iconic burger, Copycat Big Mac Salad is a unique take on a familiar flavor. It’s designed for those who love a creative twist on classic ingredients. This salad is sure to be a conversation starter at your next event. Not only is it enjoyable, but it also adds a playful element to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Cabbage Salad

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

For those who appreciate simple and fresh ingredients, Cabbage Salad is a top choice. This dish brings a crisp texture and a refreshing taste to your plate. It pairs well with both light and hearty meals, making it versatile for any season. An ideal option for a healthy lunch or side dish.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Close-up of a wonderful 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.

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing is a must-try for anyone who loves a rich and fulfilling taste. It combines the crispness of broccoli with a decadent dressing that’s sure to please. This salad is perfect for those who appreciate a richer side dish. It pairs beautifully with both grilled meats and vegetarian meals.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

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.

If hearty salads are what you crave, look no further than Dense Bean Salad. It’s packed with nutrients and flavors that fill you up. It’s a robust addition to any meal, especially if you’re looking for something fulfilling yet healthy. This salad can confidently stand as a meal on its own.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean 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 Primavera brings a festive color and wonderful textures to your table. It’s ideal for those who enjoy lighter pasta dishes with a fresh twist. Whether it’s a simple family dinner or a special occasion, this salad blends well with any main course. It’s a straightforward yet flavorful choice for pasta lovers.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

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

Brighten up your meal with Red Cabbage Coleslaw. This colorful salad adds a beautiful visual element and a tangy twist to your dining experience. It’s fantastic with barbecued meats or as a stand-alone snack. This recipe promises a refreshing change to your usual salad routine.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

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.

Add some excitement to your meals with Laccha Pyaz. This tangy onion salad complements any North Indian dish and brings a burst of flavor to your palette. It’s a simple, quick add-on that transforms a regular meal into something special. Ideal for those who enjoy a spicy kick with their food.
Get the Recipe: Laccha Pyaz

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.

Looking for a fun and easy meal option? Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!) is a playful dish that everyone will enjoy making and eating. It’s a wonderful choice for parties or quick family dinners. The individual cups make it especially appealing for kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)

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 a wonderful choice for those who enjoy a bit of char in their meals. The grilled paneer adds a smokey flavor that pairs wonderfully with fresh greens. It’s a hearty option that works well as a main or a side dish. Perfect for anyone looking to add more protein to their diet in a flavorful way.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Paneer Salad

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.

Enjoy Macaroni Salad, a timeless dish that offers a creamy texture with every bite. It’s an excellent addition to any cookout or picnic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting side, this salad never disappoints. It’s a reliable choice for any pasta salad enthusiast.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni 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.

Healthy Chicken Salad is perfect for a nutritious and fulfilling meal. It combines lean protein and fresh vegetables for a wholesome dish. Ideal for a meal prep day or a light dinner, this salad is both beneficial and delicious. It’s proof that healthy food can be as enjoyable as it is good for you.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken 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.

Take a trip to Italy with every bite of Italian Pasta with Salami. This salad mixes the bold flavors of salami with the subtle nuances of Italian herbs. It’s a great dish for any gathering or a quiet night in. It serves well as a main course or a side dish, offering a taste of Italy in your home.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Kala Chana Chaat

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

Spice up your meal selections with Kala Chana Chaat. This robust Indian salad is packed with flavors and is perfect for anyone who loves a bit of zing in their meal. Ideal for a snack or alongside main courses, it brings a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist. A popular dish for those enjoying spicy and flavorful recipes.
Get the Recipe: Kala Chana Chaat

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.

Enjoy the spicy kick of Buffalo Chicken Salad. This dish is a favorite among those who love bold flavors paired with crisp greens. It’s perfect for a meal that needs a bit of heat. Whether you’re serving it at a get-together or enjoying it as a meal on its own, it’s sure to grab attention.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad

7 Layer Salad

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

If layers of flavor are what you’re after, 7 Layer Salad is the answer. This salad is not only visually impressive but also offers a variety of tastes. It’s a fantastic choice for potlucks or parties. Everyone can enjoy a scoop of this layered treat, making it a versatile and beloved dish.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer 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.

For a twist on traditional salads, try Curried Chicken Salad. This salad brings a curry-infused excitement to your meal. It’s great for those who enjoy a touch of international flair in their food. Serve it cold for a refreshing lunch or dinner – it’s versatile and vibrant, perfect for a dynamic dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

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

Kick it up a notch with Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. This dish is ideal for anyone who loves a mix of spicy and cool sensations. It’s a refreshing take on cucumbers, perfect for enhancing any meal. Serve this as a vibrant side dish or a palate-cleansing accompaniment to richer mains.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber 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.

Classic and full of flavor, Cobb Salad is packed with ingredients that keep you coming back for more. It’s a staple dish that combines taste with satisfaction. Perfect for a hearty lunch or a fulfilling dinner, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with your favorite dressing to really make it your own.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Pizza Salad

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

For those who can’t decide between pizza and salad, Pizza Salad offers the best of both worlds. This salad brings the beloved flavors of pizza in a fresh, crunchy format. It’s a creative way to satisfy your cravings without the heaviness of actual pizza. Great for a light, enjoyable meal.
Get the Recipe: Pizza 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.

Honeycrisp Salad is as wonderful as it sounds. The crisp, sweet notes of Honeycrisp apples offer a refreshing taste. It’s perfect for any season, bringing a touch of sweetness to your meal. This salad is ideal for those who appreciate lighter, fruitier options on their dining table.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp 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.

Pair your favorite dishes with Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad for a fresh and easy side. This salad is a staple in many homes because of its refreshing nature and simple preparation. It’s especially good on hot days when you want something light and quick. Ideal for picnics or casual dining.
Get the Recipe: Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion 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.

Try Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad for a hearty and earthy option. This filling salad is perfect for anyone looking for a robust meal. The combination of sweet potato and chickpeas offers a fulfilling texture and flavor. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a richer salad with ample nutrients.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

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.

Hot Honey Chicken Salad brings a sweet heat to your dining table. This salad is a hit for those who enjoy a blend of sweet and spicy flavors. It’s robust enough to serve as a main dish and unique enough to talk about. Great for a dinner that needs a bit of excitement.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Waldorf Salad

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

Introduce a classic to your meal with Waldorf Salad. This well-loved dish combines crunchiness with a hint of sweetness, making it a wonderful choice for any occasion. Whether it’s part of a festive spread or a simple meal at home, it complements any menu beautifully. It’s a classic that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf 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.

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies offers a tasty way to enjoy your vegetables with a hearty pasta base. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a simple family meal. It’s packed with flavor and wholesome goodness, making it a favorite for meals of all sizes. Ideal for those looking for something filling yet refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

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.

This Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad stands out with its vibrant colors and bold tastes. The unique combination of beetroot with feta cheese offers a taste that’s both earthy and sharp. It’s a great addition to any meal, providing bold flavors and a beautiful presentation. Perfect for those who like a bit of contrast in their meals.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Beetroot and Feta 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.

Seven Layer Salad is as fun to prepare as it is to eat. This layered marvel is perfect for potlucks and parties where you want to impress. Each layer offers a different flavor, making every bite interesting. It’s a showstopper that’s sure to draw attention and praise from your guests.
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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