Dinner-Sized Salads That Don’t Leave You Hungry

Salads aren’t just for side dishes—they can be a filling and flavorful option for dinner. With the right mix of fresh ingredients, proteins, and dressings, they can be both hearty and nutritious. Whether you prefer something light or packed with bold flavors, there’s a salad for every craving.

From classic Caesar and Greek salads to grain bowls and protein-packed options, there are endless ways to enjoy a delicious meal. Ingredients like grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, nuts, and cheeses add texture and variety. Homemade dressings and fresh herbs can bring everything together for a well-balanced dish.

If you’re looking for new ideas for dinner, these salad recipes offer plenty of inspiration. Whether you want something fresh and crisp or warm and hearty, there’s a recipe to match your mood. Try these easy combinations to make salads a regular part of your dinner routine!

Kale Quinoa Salad

This salad combines hearty quinoa with tender kale for a fresh and filling dish. A bright dressing brings everything together, while add-ins like nuts, cheese, or dried fruit add texture. It works well as a light meal or a side dish. Easy to prep ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Kale Quinoa Salad

Quinoa Taco Salad

A fresh take on taco salad, this version swaps out tortilla chips for protein-packed quinoa. Loaded with seasoned ground beef or beans, crisp lettuce, and plenty of toppings, it’s both hearty and refreshing. A drizzle of salsa or creamy dressing ties it all together. Great for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Taco Salad

Pizza Salad

All the flavors of pizza in a fresh, crisp salad. Pepperoni, mozzarella, tomatoes, and olives mix with a zesty dressing for a fun twist on a classic favorite. You can keep it simple or toss in extras like croutons or roasted veggies. A lighter way to enjoy pizza flavors without the crust.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Strawberry Chicken Salad

Juicy strawberries and tender chicken come together in a refreshing mix of greens and nuts. A tangy-sweet dressing complements the flavors, making it a great option for warm weather meals. The mix of textures—crisp, creamy, and crunchy—keeps every bite interesting. A simple yet flavorful salad that works as a main dish or side.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Chicken Salad

Chinese Chicken Salad

Crisp lettuce, shredded chicken, and crunchy wonton strips come together in this flavorful dish. A sesame or ginger dressing adds a touch of sweetness and a little kick. Tossed with slivered almonds and mandarin oranges, it’s a great mix of fresh and savory. A perfect balance of crunch and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Flaky salmon pairs beautifully with pasta and crisp veggies in this easy dish. A light dressing brings everything together, keeping it fresh without being too heavy. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a great make-ahead meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Antipasto Salad

This salad is packed with classic Italian ingredients—cured meats, cheeses, olives, and crisp greens. The bold flavors make it a standout dish, whether served as a side or a main course. A drizzle of olive oil and vinegar keeps it light while enhancing the mix of textures. Great for anyone who loves a charcuterie-style meal.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Salmon Salad

Flaky salmon, fresh greens, and a light dressing make this salad both filling and refreshing. It pairs well with avocado, nuts, or a sprinkle of feta for extra flavor. You can serve it warm or chilled, depending on your preference. A great way to enjoy salmon in a fresh, simple way.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad

Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef

This version of taco salad skips the chips but keeps all the flavor. Seasoned ground beef, crisp greens, cheese, and avocado come together in a bowl with a zesty dressing. It’s packed with protein and healthy fats while staying light. A great option for anyone looking for a fresh take on taco night.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef

Crispy Chicken Salad

Crispy, golden chicken adds a satisfying crunch to this fresh and flavorful salad. Paired with crisp lettuce, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing, it’s both hearty and refreshing. You can use homemade or store-bought crispy chicken for an easy meal. A great mix of textures that makes every bite interesting.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chicken Salad

Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Garlic Dressing

This salad is loaded with classic Cobb ingredients—chicken, bacon, eggs, and avocado—tied together with a creamy buttermilk garlic dressing. It’s hearty enough for a meal and packed with protein. The mix of flavors and textures keeps it exciting. A classic that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Garlic Dressing

Greek Shrimp Orzo Salad

Juicy shrimp, tender orzo, and a medley of Mediterranean ingredients make this salad light yet filling. A simple lemon and olive oil dressing ties everything together. Fresh herbs, feta, and tomatoes add bursts of flavor. Perfect for a quick dinner or a make-ahead lunch.
Get the Recipe: Greek Shrimp Orzo Salad

Wendy’s Jalapeño Popper Salad

This spicy, cheesy salad brings together crispy chicken, bacon, and jalapeños for a bold flavor combination. A creamy dressing balances out the heat, while cheese crumbles add richness. It’s a fun take on the flavors of jalapeño poppers in a fresh, crunchy salad. A great option when you want something with a little kick.
Get the Recipe: Wendy’s Jalapeño Popper Salad

Bacon Egg Salad

A creamy egg salad gets an upgrade with crispy bacon mixed right in. The smoky, savory flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing. Serve it on toast, in a lettuce wrap, or as a dip with crackers. A simple way to add a little extra flavor to a classic.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg Salad

Big Mac Salad

This salad takes all the best parts of a Big Mac—seasoned beef, special sauce, cheese, and pickles—and puts them over crisp lettuce instead of a bun. A drizzle of homemade dressing pulls everything together. It’s a fresh way to enjoy those familiar flavors in a lighter way. A fun, easy meal with a fast-food twist.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Club Sandwich Salad

All the layers of a classic club sandwich—turkey, bacon, lettuce, and tomato—transformed into a salad. A creamy dressing ties it together while keeping it light. You can add croutons or avocado for extra texture. A fresh way to enjoy sandwich flavors without the bread.
Get the Recipe: Club Sandwich Salad

Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

Tuna salad gets a bold upgrade with pesto and sundried tomatoes mixed in. The flavors work together beautifully, making it great on its own or stuffed into a wrap. A sprinkle of Parmesan or pine nuts adds an extra touch. Perfect for a quick lunch with plenty of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

Kung Pao Chicken Salad

This salad brings the bold flavors of Kung Pao chicken into a fresh, crunchy dish. A mix of greens, bell peppers, peanuts, and a sweet-spicy dressing keeps things interesting. Grilled or crispy chicken both work well here. A fun way to switch up salad night.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken Salad

Cobb Salad

Loaded with crisp greens, grilled chicken, bacon, eggs, and avocado, this salad is a meal in itself. A rich dressing ties everything together, balancing the mix of textures. It’s packed with protein and flavor, making it a go-to for a filling yet fresh meal. A timeless favorite that always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Fluffy couscous, crispy tofu, and fresh veggies make this a filling and flavorful plant-based meal. A light lemon or herb dressing keeps it fresh while bringing everything together. Serve it warm or cold, depending on your preference. A great option for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Tortellini Salad

Cheese-filled tortellini, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing make this salad both hearty and refreshing. It works as a side dish or a meal on its own. A sprinkle of Parmesan or a handful of fresh herbs adds an extra layer of flavor. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple lunch.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Salad