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21 Salad Recipes That Will Lettuce Forgo The Greens

Looking for fresh and flavorful meal ideas? This list has you covered with a mix of vibrant salads and satisfying sandwiches. Whether you need a quick lunch, a dish for your next cookout, or a light yet filling dinner, these recipes deliver bold flavors with simple ingredients.

From classic tuna and chicken salads to Mediterranean-inspired bowls and pasta-packed favorites, there’s something for everyone. These recipes are easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a last-minute meal idea.

Which one will you try first? Let us know, and happy cooking! 🥗🥪

Citrus Quinoa Salad

Citrus Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Stetted.

A bright and refreshing salad with quinoa, juicy oranges, grapefruit, and chickpeas for a protein boost—perfect for a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Quinoa Salad

Turkey Salad Recipe

Turkey Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

Turn leftover turkey into a creamy, flavorful salad with crisp celery and a tangy mayo dressing—so good, you’ll want to roast a turkey just for this.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Salad Recipe

Best Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwiches

Best Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwiches. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

These flaky croissant sandwiches are packed with chicken salad featuring crisp apple, crunchy pecans, and juicy grapes for the perfect balance of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Best Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwiches

Lemony Mustard Chickpea Salad

Lemony Mustard Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Stetted.

A quick, protein-packed salad with chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon mustard dressing—ready in minutes for an easy lunch.
Get the Recipe: Lemony Mustard Chickpea Salad

Italian Pasta Salad

Italian Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Rotini pasta, crisp vegetables, and a homemade Italian dressing come together in this refreshing and easy-to-make side dish.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta Salad

Sunshine Pasta Salad

Sunshine Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes.

Light, fresh, and full of flavor, this pasta salad is the ultimate summer dish for potlucks, picnics, or a simple dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sunshine Pasta Salad

Asian Cucumber Tomato Salad: Easy And Refreshing

Asian Cucumber Tomato Salad: Easy And Refreshing. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes tossed in a sweet and tangy Asian-style dressing—an easy, refreshing side dish.
Get the Recipe: Asian Cucumber Tomato Salad: Easy And Refreshing

Asian Cucumber Salad

Asian Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A crunchy cucumber salad with a flavorful dressing that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or Asian-inspired dishes.
Get the Recipe: Asian Cucumber Salad

Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad

Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Cheese-filled tortellini combined with fresh vegetables and a zesty Italian dressing for a pasta salad that’s both hearty and refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad

Asian Chicken Salad

Asian Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A light and crunchy salad with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a bold Asian-inspired dressing—perfect for a healthy meal.
Get the Recipe: Asian Chicken Salad

Easy Grilled Corn Salad

Easy Grilled Corn Salad. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

A smoky, sweet corn salad that’s so good, you’ll want to make a double batch—perfect for BBQs and summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Grilled Corn Salad

The BEST Tuna Salad Recipe

The BEST Tuna Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

This tuna salad blends creamy and tangy flavors for a simple yet delicious lunch option, great for sandwiches or lettuce wraps.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Tuna Salad Recipe

Orange Ginger Chicken Pasta Salad

Orange Ginger Chicken Pasta Salad. Photo credit: The Creative Bite.

Tender chicken, pasta, and a refreshing orange-ginger dressing come together in this light and flavorful salad.
Get the Recipe: Orange Ginger Chicken Pasta Salad

Smoked Greek Chicken Pasta Salad

Smoked Greek Chicken Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A unique pasta salad featuring smoked chicken, tangy Greek flavors, and fresh veggies—great for warm-weather meals.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Greek Chicken Pasta Salad

Chicken Salad with Grapes

Chicken Salad with Grapes. Photo credit: Stetted.

A creamy, crunchy, and slightly sweet chicken salad that works beautifully in sandwiches or as a stand-alone dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Grapes

Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, tossed in a red wine vinaigrette and topped with crispy pita chips.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

Classic Potato Salad Recipe

Classic Potato Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor, this timeless potato salad is a must-have for cookouts and picnics.
Get the Recipe: Classic Potato Salad Recipe

Tortellini Caprese Salad

Tortellini Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

Cheese tortellini, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil come together in this quick, summer-ready salad.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Caprese Salad

The Best Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

The Best Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

A creamy, tangy Hawaiian-style macaroni salad with a hint of sweetness—perfect for BBQs or luau-themed meals.
Get the Recipe: The Best Hawaiian Macaroni Salad Recipe

Smoked Chicken Salad Sandwich

Smoked Chicken Salad Sandwich. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

A smoky twist on a classic, this chicken salad features tender smoked chicken for a rich and satisfying sandwich filling.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Salad Sandwich