13 Easy Salad Recipes That Aren’t Just Boring Lettuce and Dressing

Salads don’t have to be boring. With the right mix of ingredients, you can turn a simple dish into something you look forward to eating. In this list of 13 easy salad recipes, you’ll find fresh ideas that are quick to make and full of flavor. These are the kind of salads you’ll want to make again and again, whether you need a lunch or a light dinner.

Image shows easy to make vegan couscous salad.

Lemon Kale Salad

Image shows a fork holding a bite of lemon kale salad with the full bowl behind it.
Lemon Kale Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This salad mixes bold kale with a zesty lemon dressing and creamy parmesan, making it a great option for anyone looking for a punch of flavor. It’s simple yet satisfying, giving you a fresh twist on a classic green salad. Enjoy it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Kale Salad

Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

Image shows a Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad in a wooden bowl closeup.
Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This is a refreshing salad with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and salty feta cheese, bringing all the classic Mediterranean flavors to your plate. It’s light but packed with flavor, perfect for a quick and easy meal. Enjoy it on its own or with pita bread.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Image shows a fork holding a bite of shaved brussels sprouts salad with a clear bowl containing the rest of the serving behind it.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Thinly shaved Brussels sprouts mixed with parmesan and a light dressing for a fresh take on a veggie many overlook. It’s crunchy, flavorful, and nothing like the mushy sprouts you remember. This salad is perfect for when you want something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Veggie Pasta Salad

Image shows a closeup of a Summer Pasta Salad with Mediterranean flavors.
Veggie Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This colorful pasta salad skips the heavy dressings, opting for fresh veggies and pasta for a lighter meal. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and great for lunch or as a side dish. Customize it with your favorite vegetables for a personal touch.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pasta Salad

Spinach Caprese Salad

Image shows a Spinach Caprese Salad in a wooden salad bowl.
Spinach Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Spinach, mozzarella, and tomatoes come together in this easy-to-make salad that’s inspired by the classic Caprese. It’s fresh and light, with a bit of prosciutto for extra protein. A simple yet satisfying meal that’s great for any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Caprese Salad

Hearts of Palm Salad

Silver bowl with a veggie filled hearts of palm salad.
Hearts of Palm Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Hearts of palm add a unique touch to this veggie-packed salad that’s full of fresh flavors. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for when you want a light but flavorful dish that feels anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Hearts of Palm Salad

Vegan Couscous Salad

Image shows a closeup of an enameled cast iron pan filled with a vegan couscous salad.
Vegan Couscous Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This plant-based salad mixes couscous with corn, tomatoes, and avocado, creating a light and tasty meal that’s perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike. It’s filling, easy to put together, and packed with wholesome ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad

Harvest Quinoa Salad

Image shows a closeup head on shot of Harvest Quinoa Salad in a glass bowl.
Harvest Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Quinoa pairs with roasted veggies and cranberries for a hearty salad that’s perfect as a main dish or side. It’s full of texture and flavor, making it a satisfying choice when you need a quick and filling meal. Great for when you crave something hearty yet healthy.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Quinoa Salad

Avocado Tomato Salad

Image shows a wooden bowl containing avocado tomato salad shown from overhead and sitting on a picnnic table.
Avocado Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This salad is all about the fresh taste of creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes. It’s simple, delicious, and comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for busy days. Great as a light lunch or a side that’s full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Tomato Salad

Kung Pao Chicken Salad

Image shows a closeup of Kung Pao Chicken Salad in a white bowl.
Kung Pao Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This salad combines tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a spicy Asian-inspired sauce for a meal that’s full of flavor. It’s bold, satisfying, and anything but boring. Perfect for when you’re craving something with a bit of a kick.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken Salad

Goat Cheese and Dried Cherry Salad

Image shows an overhead shot of a goat cheese and dried cherry salad in a wooden bowl.
Goat Cheese and Dried Cherry Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Creamy goat cheese and sweet dried cherries bring a mix of flavors to this leafy green salad. It’s a tasty blend of sweet and savory, perfect for a light meal or a special occasion. This salad feels like a treat but is easy enough to make any time.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese and Dried Cherry Salad

Tomato Quinoa Salad

Image shows shows a closeup of Tomato Quinoa Salad in a small white bowl.
Tomato Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers come together with a light vinaigrette in this easy-to-make salad. It’s light, packed with protein, and great for lunch or as a side. A healthy option that’s full of fresh, bright flavors.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Quinoa Salad

Cucumber Salad

Image shows a close up of a summer Cucumber Salad in a clear bowl.
Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Cool cucumbers mixed with a zesty yogurt and dill dressing make this a refreshing salad that’s perfect for any time. It’s light, and crisp, and comes together quickly, offering a simple but tasty option for a quick lunch or dinner side.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad

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