Hearty, Loaded Salads That Always Hit the Spot

Big salad recipes are perfect when you want something fresh, filling, and easy to put together. They’re a great way to use a mix of veggies, proteins, grains, and dressings all in one bowl. Whether for lunch or dinner, they can stand on their own as a full meal.

There’s no single way to make a big salad—some are built around leafy greens, while others focus on beans, pasta, or grains. Add-ins like roasted vegetables, nuts, cheese, and meats can switch things up and keep it interesting. They’re easy to adjust based on what you have.

These salads work well for meal prep or sharing at gatherings. They’re flexible, colorful, and often packed with textures and flavors. Whether you want something light or more filling, there’s plenty to try.

Crispy Chicken Salad

Crunchy chicken on a bed of greens hits just the right balance between texture and flavor. It’s great for a quick lunch or light dinner and pairs well with your favorite dressing. Add-ins like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese round it out nicely. A solid pick when you’re after something hearty but still fresh.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chicken Salad

Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef

This one skips the shell but keeps all the flavor. Spiced ground beef, crisp lettuce, avocado, and shredded cheese come together in a bowl that’s both filling and low on carbs. It’s easy to customize with salsa or sour cream on top. A no-fuss way to enjoy taco night without the tortillas.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef

Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Garlic Dressing

This classic mix of bacon, egg, avocado, and grilled chicken covers all the bases. The creamy buttermilk garlic dressing ties everything together without overpowering. It’s a full meal that doesn’t feel heavy. Perfect when you want something balanced but a little indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Garlic Dressing

Wendy’s Jalapeño Popper Salad

Inspired by the fast food favorite, this version brings the heat with sliced jalapeños and crunchy chicken. Bits of bacon and a creamy cheese dressing make it feel like comfort food. It’s bold but not over-the-top. Ideal when you’re craving something spicy with a bit of crunch.
Get the Recipe: Wendy’s Jalapeño Popper Salad

Bacon Egg Salad

Simple, protein-packed, and totally no-frills. Chopped eggs and crispy bacon are the stars here, usually tossed with a creamy dressing. It’s quick to whip up and works well for meal prep. Serve it in lettuce cups or on toast for a little extra texture.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg Salad

Big Mac Salad

Everything you love about a Big Mac, minus the bun. Ground beef, lettuce, pickles, cheese, and a tangy sauce come together in one bowl. It’s fast, filling, and surprisingly low-carb. A smart way to satisfy a fast food craving at home.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Tortellini Salad

Cheesy tortellini meets crisp veggies in this hearty option. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, it holds up well in the fridge, making it great for potlucks or lunches. You can add in salami or olives for extra flavor. It’s as versatile as it is comforting.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Salad

Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

A fresh spin on tuna salad with bold pesto and tangy sundried tomatoes. It’s great over greens, in a wrap, or even on crackers. Packed with protein and flavor, it’s anything but boring. A good way to mix things up from the usual mayo-heavy versions.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

Quinoa Taco Salad

This one’s loaded with texture—fluffy quinoa, crisp lettuce, beans, corn, and avocado. It’s a plant-based take on taco salad that still feels hearty. A squeeze of lime and some salsa keep things bright. Great for meal prep or packed lunches.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Taco Salad

Club Sandwich Salad

Everything you’d find in a club sandwich, minus the bread. Think turkey, bacon, tomatoes, and crisp romaine with a creamy dressing. It’s got that layered, savory feel but in salad form. Tastes familiar, just served a little differently.
Get the Recipe: Club Sandwich Salad

Pizza Salad

Yes, it’s a thing—and it works. Pepperoni, mozzarella, olives, and a dash of oregano bring the flavor of pizza into a salad bowl. It’s fun, easy to throw together, and a hit with kids too. Tastes like a treat without feeling too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Kung Pao Chicken Salad

This one brings that sweet and spicy combo with a satisfying crunch from peanuts and veggies. The sauce coats the chicken perfectly, giving it just the right kick. It’s a nice alternative to takeout. Works well warm or chilled.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken Salad

Strawberry Chicken Salad

Juicy strawberries paired with grilled chicken, nuts, and maybe a touch of goat cheese. It’s fresh, light, and just a little bit sweet. Perfect for spring or summer lunches. A refreshing change from the usual savory-only options.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Chicken Salad

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Fluffy couscous and crispy tofu make a great base for colorful chopped veggies. It’s filling without being heavy, and you can dress it up with lemon or a simple vinaigrette. Great cold and easy to pack. A solid plant-based pick for any day.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Chinese Chicken Salad

Crunchy veggies, tender chicken, and a sesame-soy dressing come together with lots of texture. Toss in some crispy noodles for extra bite. It’s light but full of flavor. A longtime favorite for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Kale Quinoa Salad

Nutritious and full of crunch, this combo is big on fiber and protein. Kale softens nicely when massaged, and quinoa adds a nice bite. Add some cranberries or nuts for balance. A great make-ahead salad that only gets better with time.
Get the Recipe: Kale Quinoa Salad

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Flaky salmon tossed with pasta and fresh veggies makes for a quick, filling option. A light dressing keeps it from feeling too rich. Works well cold and holds up in the fridge. Ideal for lunchboxes or weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Greek Shrimp Orzo Salad

Shrimp, orzo, cucumbers, and feta bring a mix of bold and fresh. Tossed in lemon and herbs, it’s perfect for warm weather. You can make it ahead and serve it cold. Pairs well with a glass of white wine or iced tea.
Get the Recipe: Greek Shrimp Orzo Salad

Cobb Salad

Loaded with bacon, chicken, egg, and avocado, this one never goes out of style. It’s hearty enough for dinner and easy to customize. A creamy dressing ties it all together. Great when you want something that checks every box.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Salmon Salad

Flaked salmon, crisp greens, and a simple vinaigrette make a clean, fresh meal. Add-ins like capers or red onion give it a little extra kick. Works great with leftover salmon too. Light but delicious.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad

Antipasto Salad

Think olives, salami, artichokes, and cheese all chopped up into a colorful, flavor-packed bowl. It’s bold, filling, and perfect for sharing. Easy to prep ahead of time. A great way to bring a bit of variety to your salad routine.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad