Not Your Average Salad

Salads don’t have to be boring or predictable. With the right mix of ingredients, they can be filling, flavorful, and full of texture. These recipes show that salads can be just as exciting as any main dish.

You’ll find combinations that go beyond lettuce and dressing—think grains, roasted veggies, fresh herbs, fruits, and protein. They’re great for lunch, dinner, or even as a side that stands out. Each one brings something a little different to the table.

Whether you prefer something light or more hearty, there’s a salad here that fits. They’re easy to put together and flexible enough to match your taste. These ideas prove that salad can be anything but average.

Antipasto Salad

Packed with Italian-inspired ingredients like cured meats, olives, and cheese, this salad brings together bold, savory flavors in every bite. It’s great for meal prep or as a crowd-pleasing starter at gatherings. The mix of crunchy vegetables and marinated bites makes it anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Light yet filling, this salad blends fluffy couscous, protein-rich tofu, and colorful vegetables for a balanced meal. A simple dressing brings it all together without overpowering the fresh flavors. It’s a great plant-based option whether served warm or chilled.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Greek Shrimp Orzo Salad

This Mediterranean-inspired dish features tender shrimp, orzo pasta, and a crisp mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta. It’s fresh, lemony, and hearty enough for a full lunch. Perfect for sunny days or quick weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Greek Shrimp Orzo Salad

Cobb Salad

With layers of chicken, avocado, bacon, and hard-boiled eggs, this salad is a classic for a reason. It offers a mix of textures and proteins that make it more than just a side dish. Ideal when you want something quick but still loaded with substance.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef

Skip the shells and go straight for the good stuff—seasoned ground beef, cheese, lettuce, and all your favorite taco fixings. It’s low on carbs but big on flavor. A great go-to when you’re after something fast, filling, and still a bit spicy.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef

Chinese Chicken Salad

Crunchy cabbage, juicy chicken, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing come together in this colorful mix. Topped with crispy noodles or nuts for extra crunch, it’s both refreshing and satisfying. It works well for lunch or a light dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Strawberry Chicken Salad

Sweet strawberries and savory grilled chicken make this salad stand out. Tossed with greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette, it’s both vibrant and filling. Great for a fresh take on lunch.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Chicken Salad

Quinoa Taco Salad

Protein-packed quinoa meets taco night in this healthy twist on a favorite. Black beans, corn, avocado, and spices round it out for a well-balanced bowl. Perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Taco Salad

Salmon Salad

Flaky cooked salmon pairs with greens, veggies, and a light dressing for a simple yet hearty salad. It’s rich in protein and omega-3s, making it a smart option for any meal. Works well warm or chilled.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad

Crispy Chicken Salad

Think crunchy chicken tenders layered over fresh lettuce, veggies, and a drizzle of your go-to dressing. It’s comfort food in salad form. Ideal for when you’re craving something crisp and filling.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chicken Salad

Bacon Egg Salad

Hard-boiled eggs and crispy bacon bring serious flavor to this creamy classic. It’s great on its own, as a sandwich filling, or spooned over greens. Quick to make and always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg Salad

Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Garlic Dressing

This version of the Cobb gets a flavor boost from creamy garlic buttermilk dressing. With all the usual fixings—chicken, eggs, avocado, and bacon—it’s a hearty choice for lunch or dinner. Every forkful is layered with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Garlic Dressing

Wendy’s Jalapeño Popper Salad

Inspired by a fast-food favorite, this one’s got spice, crunch, and creamy bits all in one bowl. The combination of jalapeños, cheese, bacon, and chicken makes it bold and filling. It’s got just enough heat to keep things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Wendy’s Jalapeño Popper Salad

Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

A herby pesto twist gives this tuna salad a fresh update, while sundried tomatoes add a punch of flavor. Great as a sandwich, wrap, or over greens. It’s simple, quick, and not your typical tuna mix.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes

Tortellini Salad

Cheesy tortellini mixed with fresh veggies and a light vinaigrette turns pasta into a refreshing main dish. It’s great served cold and perfect for parties or packed lunches. A fun way to enjoy pasta outside the usual sauce-and-bowl routine.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Salad

Big Mac Salad

All the flavors of a favorite burger—beef, pickles, special sauce—but in salad form. It’s low on carbs, big on nostalgia. A fun, satisfying way to mix up your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Club Sandwich Salad

This takes all the layers of a club sandwich—turkey, bacon, tomatoes—and tosses them into a fresh, crunchy bowl. Drizzle with ranch or your favorite dressing for a familiar taste with a lighter feel. Perfect when you want something hearty without the bread.
Get the Recipe: Club Sandwich Salad

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Combine flaky salmon, pasta, and fresh veggies for a chilled dish that’s great for picnics or meal prep. The creamy or vinaigrette-style dressing ties it together without being heavy. A nice blend of protein, carbs, and crunch.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Kale Quinoa Salad

Hearty kale and fluffy quinoa make a strong base for this nutrient-rich salad. Add roasted veggies, nuts, or a tangy dressing for extra flavor and texture. It’s both filling and feel-good.
Get the Recipe: Kale Quinoa Salad

Pizza Salad

Think of all your favorite toppings—pepperoni, mozzarella, olives—but tossed with greens and a light Italian dressing. It’s a clever way to enjoy a pizza-style flavor without the crust. Great for lunches that don’t feel routine.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Taco Pasta Salad

All the boldness of a taco meets the comfort of pasta in this easy mix. Beans, cheese, veggies, and a taco-seasoned dressing keep it interesting and filling. A solid pick for potlucks or weekday lunches.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad