These 29 Salad Recipes Worked Even On Meatless Nights
Sometimes a salad just shows up and takes over the whole meal like it owns the place. These 29 salad recipes didn’t just work without meat—they made everything else seem extra. They held their own, brought balance, and didn’t need backup. Honestly, it was kind of impressive and a little annoying.

Cucumber Peanut Salad

Fresh and crunchy, Cucumber Peanut Salad is a great go-to for meatless meals. It’s light but full of character, perfect for those times when you need something quick but fulfilling. The mix of textures will keep you coming back for more. It’s one of those dishes that just works, no matter the day.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Peanut Salad
Italian Pasta with Salami

Italian Pasta with Salami is a salad that brings all the right flavors together. It’s a fulfilling mix that doesn’t overwhelm, making it a perfect choice for busy nights. The pasta soaks up all the goodness without feeling heavy. If you’re looking for something simple but full of taste, this one fits the bill.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami
Laccha Pyaz

Need something with a bit of a kick? Laccha Pyaz offers the right balance of spiciness and crunch, keeping things interesting without being too much. It’s a great addition to any meal, even on those meatless nights. This dish stands out by adding a little something different to your routine.
Get the Recipe: Laccha Pyaz
Macaroni Salad

Macaroni Salad is a classic that always hits the mark, no matter what you’re pairing it with. It’s simple, yet comforting, offering just the right amount of creaminess. Perfect for those nights when you want something quick but still feel like you’ve got a full meal. You’ll find yourself making it on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Cucumber Tomato Salad

This salad keeps things light but fulfilling, with a mix of crisp vegetables.Cucumber Tomato Salad is one of those dishes that works with just about anything. Quick to throw together and refreshing every time. Whether it’s for a side or the main dish, it’s sure to hit the spot.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad
Copycat Big Mac Salad

Copycat Big Mac Salad is a clever twist on the classic, without missing any of the comfort. It has all the flavors you love, minus the bun. If you’re craving something familiar, but with a fresh take, this salad has got you. It’s perfect when you need a fulfilling meatless option.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad
Mango Shrimp Salad

Sweet and tangy, Mango Shrimp Salad is one that delivers something different. It’s not heavy but still filling, a great choice for when you want to mix up your salad game. The balance of textures and flavors will keep you interested from the first bite to the last. It works perfectly for any meal, even when you’re skipping the meat.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad brings all the vibrant flavors to the table, making it hard to stop at just one bite. It’s got the right amount of spice, creaminess, and crunch, making it a fun, versatile dish. If you’re craving something with a little extra kick, this salad delivers. It’s great for meatless nights without feeling like you’re missing out.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Mediterranean Salad

With its fresh mix of flavors, Mediterranean Salad feels light but still packs a punch. It’s got that perfect balance, whether you’re looking for something on the lighter side or needing a solid meal. This salad is all about keeping it simple but fulfilling. You’ll find yourself making it often once you try it.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salad
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

When you’re craving something crunchy and creamy, Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing has got you covered. The creamy dressing coats the broccoli perfectly, making each bite just right. It’s filling without being overwhelming, making it a solid meatless option. If you’re looking for something easy and tasty, this one is a winner.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Pizza Salad

Pizza Salad is the perfect mix of comfort and freshness. It’s all the best parts of pizza in salad form, minus the dough. Perfect for when you’re craving the flavors of pizza but want something lighter. This one’s sure to be a hit when you’re skipping the meat.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad
Caesar Salad

Sometimes, the classic hits just right, and Caesar Salad is that go-to. With its creamy dressing and crisp romaine, it’s everything you need when you want something familiar but tasty. It’s a dish that’s easy to pull together and works for pretty much any meal. If you’re keeping things simple, this one delivers.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies is all about bringing together simple ingredients for a great result. The grilled veggies add a smokey depth that pairs perfectly with the pasta. It’s filling without being heavy, making it a perfect meatless option. You’ll enjoy the variety of textures and flavors every time.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies
7 Layer Salad

This salad takes the idea of layering ingredients to a whole new level. Each layer brings something different, keeping the salad fresh and interesting. It’s a salad that’s easy to prepare and still feels like a meal. 7 Layer Salad is perfect when you need something hearty, but want to keep it meatless.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad
Potato Salad

Classic and comforting, Potato Salad never disappoints. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for when you need something easy but filling. The creamy dressing pairs perfectly with the potatoes, making each bite just right. Whether it’s a side or the main, it works any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad
Red Cabbage Coleslaw

A crunchy, colorful dish, Red Cabbage Coleslaw brings together a variety of textures. It’s a fresh option when you need a quick side that doesn’t require much effort. This salad manages to stay fulfilling without being too heavy. It’s great for adding some crunch to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is a go-to when you want a light yet filling option. Packed with fresh veggies, this dish delivers a simple, easy-to-make meal that won’t weigh you down. It’s the perfect solution for those evenings when you’re craving something filling but not too heavy. You can count on it to hit the spot.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera
Dense Bean Salad

With its hearty ingredients, Dense Bean Salad works well when you need something that holds you over. It’s a great option that doesn’t skimp on texture or substance. This salad packs in plenty of flavor without overwhelming you. If you’re looking for something filling, this is a solid choice.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad
Kachumber

If you need a refreshing side, Kachumber offers a crisp, bright mix of ingredients. It’s easy to prepare and adds a fulfilling crunch to any meal. You’ll appreciate how it complements other dishes with its clean, simple flavors. Perfect for a quick bite that doesn’t leave you too full.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber
Green Goddess Salad

Green Goddess Salad is a vibrant, healthy option that delivers without being complicated. This salad brings together a mix of greens that pair well with any meal. It’s simple but always leaves you feeling good after a meal. This is a solid go-to for anyone who needs a quick, refreshing dish.
Get the Recipe: Green Goddess Salad
Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

This salad offers a hearty and filling option without feeling too heavy. The combination of roasted ingredients makes it both fulfilling and tasty. Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad is a great way to add some nutrition to your plate. You’ll be surprised by how well it balances everything out.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad
Kala Chana Chaat

When you’re in the mood for something savory and fulfilling, Kala Chana Chaat is a great choice. This dish combines bold flavors in a way that still feels light. It’s a snack that works perfectly as a standalone or a side. The mix of spices and textures will keep you coming back.
Get the Recipe: Kala Chana Chaat
Quinoa Salad

Quinoa Salad is an excellent choice when you need something easy to throw together. This dish is filling enough to keep you satisfied without being too heavy. It’s a great option when you want something that’s light but still substantial. You’ll be amazed at how well it holds up as a meal.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Salad
Waldorf Salad

If you’re looking for something crunchy and fresh, Waldorf Salad is a great pick. This classic brings together a mix of textures that never disappoint. It’s a simple dish that doesn’t require much prep but delivers every time. Great for when you need a side that isn’t too complicated.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad
Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad

Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad gives you a rich combination of flavors without being overwhelming. The earthy sweetness of the beets pairs perfectly with the tangy feta. It’s a great way to switch things up while still getting a fulfilling salad. This dish stands out without needing extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Beetroot and Feta Salad
Cabbage Salad

Looking for something easy and quick? Cabbage Salad fits the bill. It’s simple to prepare and offers a great crunch, making it perfect for a last-minute meal. This salad doesn’t need to be complicated to be good, and it hits the spot every time.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad
Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad is a light, fresh option that comes together in minutes. It’s a no-fuss salad that’s perfect when you want something simple but satisfying. The balance of crispness from the cucumber and juiciness from the tomato is always a winner. A salad like this keeps things easy and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad
Green Salad

This dish is exactly what you need when you’re looking for something fresh and quick. It’s a simple salad that doesn’t need a lot of ingredients to be great. The best part is how easy it is to make while still giving you that refreshing crunch. Green Salad is perfect for when you want something light and filling.
Get the Recipe: Green Salad
Honeycrisp Salad

For a lighter, crisp option, Honeycrisp Salad is a good choice. This salad features a nice balance of fresh textures and is super easy to put together. It’s great for when you want a salad that’s light but still feels satisfying. You’ll love how it pairs with almost any meal without being overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad
About the Author

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.
