17 Easy Salads That Are Anything But Bland

Say goodbye to the days of unexciting salads with these 17 easy-to-make recipes that pack a punch of flavor. These salads are more than just a way to get your greens; they’re a celebration of what happens when diverse ingredients come together harmoniously. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a light accompaniment, these salads are proof that with the right mix, salads can easily become the star of any dining occasion.

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad in a white serving bowl.
Shirazi Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking to refresh your palate, here’s a salad that does just that. Shirazi Salad is a burst of freshness in every bite, combining crisp vegetables with a zingy dressing. It’s a side dish that brings a touch of Persian cuisine to your table, light and invigorating.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Ham Salad with dill pickle on a plate.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you have leftover ham and a craving for something hearty yet cold, this salad answers the call. Old Fashioned Ham Salad turns a classic into a creamy, satisfying dish perfect for sandwiches or on its own. It’s a nostalgic bite that’s as simple as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine taking all the bold flavors of Mexican street corn and turning it into a salad. Mexican Street Corn Salad does just that, with its mix of sweet corn, creamy sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese. It’s a side that steals the show, perfect for any BBQ or family gathering.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Coronation Chicken Salad

A pan of coronation chicken salad next to a plate of lettuce and tomatoes.
Coronation Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a salad that’s royally good and surprisingly easy, Coronation Chicken Salad is a feast of flavors. This dish combines tender chicken with a curried creamy dressing, bringing a British classic right to your table. It’s a deliciously different way to enjoy chicken salad.
Get the Recipe: Coronation Chicken Salad

Steak & Pasta Salad

Overheat shot of steakhouse pasta salad.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you can’t decide between pasta and steak, why not have both? Steak & Pasta Salad merges the best of both worlds, offering a hearty, satisfying meal that’s still light. It’s the perfect way to make a salad feel like a main course, complete with all the flavors you love.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a quick, flavorful side that screams summer, Pesto Orzo Salad is your go-to. This dish combines tender orzo with fresh pesto, making each forkful a vibrant taste experience. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that pairs well with any summer fare.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Wheat Berry Salad with Tomato & Tuna in a bowl.
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dive into a salad that’s hearty and packed with texture. Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes brings together chewy wheat berries, flaky tuna, and juicy tomatoes for a meal that’s satisfying and nutritious. It’s a wholesome choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Curried chicken salad in a blue bowl.
Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those who like their salad with a hint of exotic, Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins hits the spot. This salad mixes the warmth of curry with the sweetness of raisins, adding an unexpected twist to chicken salad. It’s a flavorful adventure in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

An image of Tex-Mex Caesar Salad on a square plate.
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Give your Caesar a Tex-Mex twist for a salad that’s anything but ordinary. Tex-Mex Caesar Salad spices things up with bold flavors and crunchy textures. It’s a south-of-the-border take on a classic that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad

Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic

Herbed potato salad on a white platter.
Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Reinvent your potato salad game with a version that’s bursting with freshness. Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic mixes tender potatoes with a vibrant mix of herbs and the mild punch of green garlic. It’s a side dish that turns a familiar favorite into something special.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you want a salad that balances sweet and savory, this chicken salad delivers. Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts combines tender chicken with the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of walnuts. It’s a delightful mix of textures and tastes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Mediterranean Tuna Salad

Four Mediterranean Tuna Salad stuffed avocados on a white plate.
Mediterranean Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Take a trip to the Mediterranean with a salad that’s light, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. Mediterranean Tuna Salad mixes flaky tuna with fresh veggies and a zesty dressing, proving healthy can be delicious. It’s a no-cook solution to a quick and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Salad

Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

A bowl of yellow bean and potato salad.
Yellow Bean & Potato Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s a twist on potato salad that brings color and crunch. Yellow Bean & Potato Salad is a vibrant mix of tender potatoes and crisp yellow beans, dressed in a light vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing take on a classic side dish, perfect for picnics and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Rotisserie chicken pasta salad in a bowl.
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Making a satisfying meal quickly is easy with Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad. This dish combines the convenience of pre-cooked chicken with the heartiness of pasta, all tossed in a flavorful dressing. It’s a time-saving meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with a salad that’s both elegant and easy. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is a light yet fulfilling dish, combining tender shrimp with orzo and fresh veggies. It’s a perfect blend of simple ingredients and a big taste.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Southern Ham Salad

A bowl of Southern ham salad and croissants on a wooden table.
Southern Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Take a page from the southern cookbook with a salad that’s rich in flavor and tradition. Southern Ham Salad combines savory ham with sweet and tangy elements for a dish that’s great on crackers or bread. It’s a comfort food classic that’s easy to make and easier to love.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Salmon Pasta Salad

Salmon pasta salad in a black bowl with forks nearby.
Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re looking for something light but satisfying, Salmon Pasta Salad is a great choice. This salad pairs flaky salmon with pasta and a refreshing dressing, making it a perfect meal for any time. It’s a healthy, flavorful option that’s quick to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

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