Side Dish Salads

Side dish salads are a great way to add something fresh, colorful, and flavorful to any meal. They’re quick to make and easy to customize with what you have on hand. Whether you’re planning a big dinner or a casual lunch, they fit right in.

From crisp veggie mixes to hearty grain-based options, side salads come in many styles. Some are light and refreshing, while others can be more filling with beans, cheese, or pasta. They can balance out rich mains or stand on their own as a lighter option.

You’ll find combinations that work well year-round, whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout. With simple ingredients and flexible prep, these salads are easy to mix and match with different meals. They’re practical, flavorful, and always welcome at the table.

Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

This raw salad brings together chopped broccoli, cauliflower, and crunchy bits like seeds or bacon. A creamy dressing ties everything together while keeping it crisp. Great for making ahead and letting sit in the fridge. Hearty but still feels fresh.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cauliflower Salad

Apple Cranberry Salad

Crisp apples and tart dried cranberries pair perfectly in this sweet and tangy salad. A sprinkle of nuts adds crunch, and a light vinaigrette ties everything together. It works well with mixed greens or even chopped romaine. Great for fall gatherings or just a weekday lunch upgrade.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cranberry Salad

Avocado Tomato Salad

Creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes keep things simple and flavorful here. A little red onion, a splash of olive oil, and some fresh herbs bring it all together. It’s refreshing, quick to assemble, and works well on its own or alongside grilled dishes. A go-to for warm-weather meals.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Tomato Salad

Kachumber Salad

This chopped veggie salad is crisp, cool, and packed with cucumber, tomatoes, onions, and a touch of citrus. It’s a staple in Indian meals, often served as a side to balance spicy dishes. Light, fresh, and easy to make with what’s on hand. Add a bit of chili or herbs for extra kick.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber Salad

Pecan Arugula Salad

Peppery arugula gets a sweet contrast from toasted pecans and a simple vinaigrette. It’s light, slightly nutty, and comes together fast. Add some shaved parmesan or goat cheese if you’re feeling fancy. Perfect for when you want something that feels fresh but a little special.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Arugula Salad

Cabbage Apple Salad

Crunchy cabbage and sweet apples make a great base for this slaw-style salad. A tangy dressing ties the textures and flavors together. It holds up well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep or picnics. A little sprinkle of seeds or nuts on top adds a nice finish.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Apple Salad

Japanese Cucumber Salad or Sunomono

This light cucumber salad is crisp and cool, with a slightly sweet and vinegary kick. Thinly sliced cucumbers soak up the simple dressing beautifully. Great as a side dish or palate refresher. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Cucumber Salad or Sunomono

Feta Beet Salad

Earthy roasted beets and salty feta come together in a bold, colorful combo. Add some greens or walnuts for extra crunch. The sweetness of the beets balances well with the tangy cheese. Great warm or cold, and easy to make ahead.
Get the Recipe: Feta Beet Salad

Mustard Potato Salad

This take on potato salad uses a tangy mustard dressing instead of mayo for a lighter feel. It’s full of flavor and holds up well at room temperature—great for picnics or potlucks. Add a bit of dill, celery, or onion to keep things interesting. Hearty but fresh at the same time.
Get the Recipe: Mustard Potato Salad

Watermelon and Feta Salad

Sweet watermelon and salty feta make a surprisingly good pair in this refreshing dish. Add some mint or basil for a cool twist. It’s quick to throw together and perfect for hot days. A chilled plate of this really hits the spot at summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon and Feta Salad

Green Jacket Salad Recipe

This mixed greens salad gets its name from the iconic Masters golf tournament but works well any time of year. It typically features bacon, cheese, and a tangy-sweet dressing that clings to every leaf. It’s hearty enough for a main but also works as a solid side. Just enough crunch and bold flavor to keep things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Green Jacket Salad Recipe

Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Uncooked ramen noodles add a fun crunch to this coleslaw-style salad. Tossed with cabbage, green onions, and a simple sesame dressing, it’s equal parts crispy and refreshing. Toasted nuts or seeds give it even more texture. Great for potlucks or picnics.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad

Green Bean Tomato Salad

Blanched green beans and ripe tomatoes are the stars here, dressed in olive oil and a splash of vinegar. It’s simple, fresh, and full of color. Perfect for summer meals or a light side dish. Let it chill for a bit so the flavors can blend.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

Fennel and Mango Slaw

This slaw combines the subtle anise flavor of fennel with the sweetness of fresh mango. It’s crunchy, juicy, and works well as a side for grilled meats or fish. A citrusy dressing brings it all together. Something a little different but really refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Fennel and Mango Slaw

Kale Quinoa Salad

Hearty kale and nutty quinoa make a solid base for this filling salad. Add-ins like dried fruit, nuts, or a lemony dressing make it both fresh and satisfying. Great for meal prep since it holds up well. A nice way to make kale feel less like a chore.
Get the Recipe: Kale Quinoa Salad

Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

This salad features a mix of fresh berries tossed in a sweet-tart blueberry-based dressing. The colors pop, and it pairs well with greens like spinach or arugula. Add some goat cheese or toasted nuts if you like extra texture. Light, fruity, and easy to throw together.
Get the Recipe: Berry Salad with Blueberry Dressing

Greek Green Salad

Crisp lettuce, cucumbers, olives, and feta come together with a bright lemon-oregano dressing. It’s fresh, crunchy, and works well as a side to grilled dishes or pita and hummus. Easy to prep and scale up for a crowd. A solid classic that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Salad

Cucumber Onion Salad

Thinly sliced cucumbers and onions soak in a simple vinegar dressing for a light, crisp salad. It’s best served chilled and pairs well with heavier meals. A sprinkle of dill or black pepper adds extra flavor. Great for prepping ahead and letting the flavors blend.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Onion Salad

Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

This version skips the bulgur and uses chopped cauliflower or another low-carb base instead. Fresh herbs, tomatoes, and a lemony dressing give it that classic tabbouleh flavor. It’s light, bright, and great as a side or even a main with some added protein. A solid option for lighter meals.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

Mexican Coleslaw Salad

This slaw adds bold flavor with lime, cumin, and a little chili powder. Cabbage, carrots, and sometimes corn or black beans give it texture and color. It’s great on tacos or as a side to grilled dishes. A fresh take on traditional coleslaw.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Coleslaw Salad

Mandarin Orange Salad

This salad brings together crisp greens and juicy mandarin oranges for a fresh, vibrant mix. Tossed with a light dressing and a handful of crunchy almonds, it strikes a nice balance between sweet and crisp. It’s a great option for lunch or as a bright side for any meal. Easy to prep and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Mandarin Orange Salad