Discover salads that will refresh your meal routine in ways you never thought possible. With these 15 unexpected combinations, you won’t miss the heavy, uninspired lunch options. They are simple, yet offer a burst of creativity that can fit into any meal plan. Perfect for work lunches or a fancy dinner starter, these salads are designed to impress. Try something new and make your meals more enjoyable and diverse.
Old Fashioned Ham Salad
This salad is a great way to enjoy leftovers in a new way. The heartiness of ham blended with a creamy dressing makes it a satisfying option for lunch. In the middle of a busy day, a serving of Old Fashioned Ham Salad can give you a nutritious boost. It’s a classic recipe with a comforting taste many people love. Simple ingredients come together to make something special without much effort. Share it at potlucks or enjoy it on your own.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad
Shirazi Salad
Light and refreshing, this salad features vibrant flavors perfect for a hot day. You’ll find that Shirazi Salad is wonderfully easy to prepare and adds a burst of freshness to your meals. It’s often enjoyed alongside grilled meats or as part of a larger spread. This salad is not just healthy but also bright and enjoyable. Composed mainly of crunchy vegetables, it makes for a healthy snack or side dish. A straightforward choice that fits well into any balanced diet.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts
Adding fruit and nuts to chicken salad can offer a delightful twist. The sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of walnuts give Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts an extra layer of texture and flavor. It’s a versatile option suitable for any meal of the day. This combination makes it filling and nutritious without being heavy. Great for meal prepping, it holds up well when stored in the fridge. Use it in sandwiches or eat it on its own for a tasty treat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts
Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins
Spice up your regular chicken salad with a mix of curry and fruit. Incorporating raisins, Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins brings a sweet and savory flavor profile. This dish can lift your spirits during a mundane lunchtime. It’s well-suited to be enjoyed on bread, lettuce wraps, or just by itself. Quick to prepare and rich in flavor, it’s a nice variation from your traditional chicken salad. Whether for a family meal or solo dining, it’s a compelling choice.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
Leftover rotisserie chicken can be turned into a delightful meal. Incorporating it into Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad adds convenience and flavor to your routine. This salad is hearty enough to be a main course but light enough to serve as a side. With pasta as the base, it’s filling and perfect for lunch or dinner. All you need is a few simple ingredients to create something tasty. It’s a great way to avoid food waste and still enjoy a delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
Steak & Pasta Salad
Combining steak with pasta brings a new level of comfort. Steak & Pasta Salad is both hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for dinner. This salad allows you to enjoy a balanced meal with protein and carbs in one dish. It makes for a robust and fulfilling option that can be whipped up quickly. A great option for meal prepping, it stores well and tastes good even the next day. Whether at a family gathering or a regular meal, it’s bound to please.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad
Salmon Pasta Salad
When you want something rich in omega-3s, this is a great pick. Salmon Pasta Salad combines the nutritional benefits of fish with the comfort of pasta. This dish is excellent for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. It’s light yet filling, making it perfect for warm days. Easy to prepare and store, it’s a versatile option for any meal. You can enjoy it as a standalone dish or as a side to other entrées.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad
Pesto Orzo Salad
Pesto sauce brings vibrant flavors to this versatile salad. Pesto Orzo Salad is easy to assemble and keeps well for several days. It’s perfect for busy lifestyles, providing a quick, nutritious meal option. The orzo adds a nice texture, making the dish both light and satisfying. Whether you’re packing lunch for work or planning a quick dinner, this salad fits the bill. It’s also great for serving at picnics or gatherings, pleasing a variety of palates.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes
Combining whole grains with protein-rich tuna makes for a filling dish. Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes is both hearty and nutritious. This salad is excellent for prepping in advance, ensuring a healthy meal is always ready. Simple yet wholesome, it offers a break from more conventional salads. Including tomatoes adds a fresh burst of flavor, enhancing the overall taste. It’s a balanced, easy-to-make option that is both light and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad
Mixing Tex-Mex flair with the classic Caesar results in a flavorful dish. Tex-Mex Caesar Salad brings a spicy twist to a favorite recipe. It’s an exciting way to enjoy a familiar taste with added zest. Perfect for those who love bold flavors without much fuss, this salad can be whipped up quickly. Great as a main dish or a side, it adds a vibrant touch to your meal plan. Easy and nutritious, it’s a versatile addition to your salad repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad
Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic
Refreshing herbs and green garlic elevate this traditional salad. Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic provides a fresh take on classic potato salads. This combination offers a light, aromatic twist that’s refreshing and easy to enjoy. Best served cold, it’s a perfect dish for warm weather. Easy to prepare, this salad is great for picnics and gatherings. It’s a wholesome option that fits well with a variety of main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic
Yellow Bean & Potato Salad
Mixing beans with potatoes brings a unique texture to the table. Yellow Bean & Potato Salad combines the heartiness of potatoes with the lightness of beans. This combination makes it a versatile side dish for any meal. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s ideal for those looking to add variety to their diet. This dish works well in outdoor settings like picnics and barbecues. Simple yet satisfying, it complements a wide range of other foods.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Bean & Potato Salad
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Adding shrimp to orzo creates a special dish that’s both light and fulfilling. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp mixes tender shrimp with a variety of fresh ingredients. Perfect for those wanting a quick, nutritious meal that feels a bit luxurious. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or a flavorful side dish. Easy to make and great for meal prep, it keeps well in the fridge. Share it at gatherings or enjoy it alone for a delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Southern Ham Salad
Embracing flavors from the South, this dish brings comfort to your table. Southern Ham Salad is hearty and fulfilling, making it a great option for any meal. Its rich taste makes it a go-to for celebrating with family or enjoying on your own. Easy to prepare, it uses ingredients often already on hand. It’s a versatile option that can be served on sandwiches or as a main dish. Simple to whip up and tasty, it’s a combination that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Inspired by street food, it brings lively flavors and textures. Mexican Street Corn Salad is bold and satisfying, offering a mix of flavors that make you think of summer days. This dish is excellent for gatherings or as a fun twist on your regular meals. Adding it to your meal rotation is an easy way to enjoy something different and nutritious. Simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for sharing. It’s a light yet hearty choice, making it great for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad