Dinner Worthy Salads To Slay The Week

Big dinner salads are a great way to make a meal that’s both fresh and filling. With the right mix of greens, proteins, and toppings, they can be just as hearty as any other dinner. Whether you like bold flavors, crunchy textures, or a mix of both, there’s a combination for everyone.

A good salad starts with a solid base—crisp lettuce, spinach, or even grains like quinoa. Add some protein, like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp, and layer in extras such as nuts, cheese, or roasted veggies. A well-balanced dressing ties everything together, whether it’s something creamy or a light vinaigrette.

These salads are quick to make and easy to customize for any taste. They work well for busy weeknights or when you want something fresh but filling. With endless ingredient options, they never get boring. Try a new mix, experiment with flavors, and enjoy a dinner that’s both simple and hearty.

Strawberry Chicken Salad

This fresh and flavorful mix brings together juicy chicken, sweet strawberries, and crisp greens. A light dressing ties everything together, balancing the sweetness with a bit of tang. Toss in some nuts or cheese for extra texture and richness. It’s a great option for a light lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Chicken Salad

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Flaky salmon pairs perfectly with tender pasta and a creamy, tangy dressing in this dish. Fresh veggies add crunch and color, making it a great option for meal prep or a quick meal. Serve it chilled for a refreshing take on a seafood-inspired pasta dish. It’s light, filling, and packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Greek Shrimp Orzo Salad

This dish combines tender shrimp, orzo pasta, and Mediterranean-inspired ingredients for a fresh and vibrant meal. Feta cheese, olives, cucumbers, and tomatoes add layers of texture and flavor. A simple dressing ties everything together, making it a great option for a light meal or side dish. Serve it chilled or at room temperature.
Get the Recipe: Greek Shrimp Orzo Salad

Antipasto Salad

A mix of cured meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables creates a bold and hearty salad that feels more like a meal. The balance of briny olives, tangy peppers, and crisp greens keeps each bite interesting. Drizzle with a simple Italian dressing to enhance the flavors. Perfect for gatherings or an easy no-cook dinner.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

This plant-based option brings together fluffy couscous, crispy tofu, and fresh vegetables. A light dressing adds just the right amount of flavor, keeping things bright and refreshing. It’s protein-packed, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. Enjoy it warm or cold for a versatile, easy meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Chinese Chicken Salad

Crisp lettuce, shredded chicken, and crunchy wonton strips come together in this takeout-inspired dish. A tangy, sesame-infused dressing adds just the right amount of sweetness and spice. Tossed with carrots, cabbage, and green onions, it’s a delicious mix of textures. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Crispy Chicken Salad

Crispy chicken strips add a crunchy, savory element to a mix of fresh greens and veggies. A creamy dressing complements the textures, creating a balanced dish that feels hearty yet fresh. Add cheese, nuts, or bacon for an extra layer of richness. A great way to turn a simple salad into a full-flavored meal.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chicken Salad

Bacon Egg Salad

Classic egg salad gets an upgrade with the smoky, savory addition of bacon. The creamy texture of the eggs pairs perfectly with the crispness of the bacon. Serve it on lettuce, in a sandwich, or as a dip with crackers. It’s a simple but flavorful twist on a well-loved dish.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg Salad

Wendy’s Jalapeño Popper Salad

Inspired by the fast-food favorite, this salad combines crispy chicken, spicy jalapeños, and a creamy dressing. Bits of cheese and bacon add extra flavor, making each bite a mix of spice, crunch, and richness. A great option for those who like a little heat in their meal. Enjoy it as a fresh and filling alternative to a heavier dish.
Get the Recipe: Wendy’s Jalapeño Popper Salad

Big Mac Salad

All the flavors of a well-known burger, but in a fresh and easy-to-eat format. Crisp lettuce, seasoned ground beef, pickles, and a special sauce-inspired dressing come together in this fun dish. Skip the bun but keep all the classic flavors intact. A great option for those looking for something a little lighter.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Salmon Salad

This protein-packed dish brings together tender salmon with crisp greens and a bright dressing. Add avocado, cucumbers, or nuts for extra flavor and texture. It’s a refreshing, filling option that works for lunch or dinner. Serve it on its own or alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad

Tortellini Salad

Cheese-filled tortellini makes this dish a little heartier than a traditional salad. Tossed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing, it’s a great option for picnics or meal prep. The mix of textures and flavors keeps it interesting. Serve chilled or at room temperature for an easy, flavorful dish.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Salad

Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

This dish swaps out the usual mayo-based dressing for a bold, herby pesto. The addition of sundried tomatoes gives it a hint of sweetness and richness. Packed with protein and flavor, it’s great on its own, in a sandwich, or served over greens. A simple way to shake up a classic tuna salad.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

Quinoa Taco Salad

All the bold flavors of tacos, combined in a fresh and protein-packed dish. Quinoa takes the place of traditional grains, giving it a hearty but light feel. Tossed with beans, avocado, and a zesty dressing, it’s a great option for a nutritious meal. Serve it warm or chilled for a meal that works any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Taco Salad

Club Sandwich Salad

A fresh take on the classic sandwich, with all the same layers of flavor. Crisp lettuce, turkey, bacon, cheese, and tomato come together with a creamy dressing. Skip the bread, but keep all the crunch and savoriness intact. A perfect option for lunch or a light dinner.
Get the Recipe: Club Sandwich Salad

Pizza Salad

This dish takes everything you love about pizza and turns it into a fresh and fun meal. Pepperoni, cheese, and veggies come together over a bed of greens, drizzled with a flavorful dressing. It’s a great way to enjoy pizza flavors in a lighter way. Serve with croutons or a sprinkle of parmesan for extra crunch.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Kung Pao Chicken Salad

Spicy, savory, and just the right amount of crunch—this dish brings the flavors of Kung Pao chicken into a lighter meal. Tossed with peanuts, fresh veggies, and a bold dressing, it’s a satisfying mix of textures. A great option for those who love a little heat in their meals. Serve it with a side of rice or on its own for a fresh, flavorful dish.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken Salad

Kale Quinoa Salad

This nutrient-packed salad brings together hearty kale, fluffy quinoa, and a simple, flavorful dressing. Add in nuts, cheese, or fruit for extra texture and contrast. It’s a great make-ahead option, as the flavors deepen over time. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal on its own.
Get the Recipe: Kale Quinoa Salad

Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef

A lighter take on a classic favorite, packed with seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and bold flavors. Skip the tortilla but keep all the crunch and spice that make tacos so great. Topped with cheese, avocado, or sour cream, it’s just as satisfying as the traditional version. Perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef

Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Garlic Dressing

This version of the well-loved classic is made even better with a creamy, flavorful dressing. Crisp greens, grilled chicken, bacon, eggs, and avocado come together for a filling, balanced meal. The dressing ties everything together with a rich, tangy finish. A great option for a pleasing lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Garlic Dressing

Cobb Salad

A tried-and-true favorite, this dish is loaded with protein and fresh ingredients. Chicken, bacon, eggs, and avocado sit on a bed of crisp greens, making it both hearty and fresh. A simple dressing enhances the flavors without overpowering them. Perfect for a meal that feels light but still fills you up.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad