Crisp vegetables, juicy fruits, hearty grains, and flavorful proteins come together in these bowls. Each salad focuses on texture and bright flavor rather than feeling like “diet food.” They work as light mains or vibrant side dishes depending on your plans. Every forkful feels refreshing and satisfying at the same time.

Green Salad with Arugula and Fresh Herbs

Green Salad with Arugula and Fresh Herbs. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Peppery arugula pairs beautifully with fragrant fresh herbs. A light dressing lets the greens shine with clean, vibrant flavor. Every bite feels crisp and refreshing. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats or light entrées.
Get the Recipe: Green Salad with Arugula and Fresh Herbs

Grilled Eggplant Salad

Grilled Eggplant Salad. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Smoky grilled eggplant brings rich, savory depth. Fresh herbs and tangy dressing brighten every bite. Soft, tender texture pairs beautifully with bold seasoning. A perfect side for barbecues or Mediterranean meals.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Eggplant Salad

Easy Kale Salad with Mango Chutney Dressing

Easy Kale Salad with Mango Chutney Dressing. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Sweet mango chutney adds bold contrast to hearty kale. A lightly creamy dressing balances tangy and fruity notes. Massaged greens stay tender while keeping a satisfying bite. Great for entertaining or everyday meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy Kale Salad with Mango Chutney Dressing

Black Bean Salad with Cumin-Lime Dressing

Black Bean Salad with Cumin-Lime Dressing. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Bright lime and warm cumin create bold, zesty flavor. Protein-rich black beans pair well with crisp vegetables. A refreshing finish keeps every bite light and satisfying. Ideal for lunches, picnics, or easy sides.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Salad with Cumin-Lime Dressing

Chickpea Salad Recipe

Chickpea Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Hearty chickpeas combine with fresh vegetables and Mediterranean-inspired flavors. A light dressing keeps everything crisp and vibrant. Protein and fiber make every serving filling and nourishing. Great for meal prep or quick lunches.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Salad Recipe

Farro Arugula Salad

Farro Arugula Salad. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Nutty farro adds hearty texture to peppery arugula. A simple dressing highlights the natural flavors of every ingredient. Fresh, bold, and satisfying in every bite. Perfect for potlucks or weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Farro Arugula Salad

Cherry Tomato Salad

Cherry Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Juicy cherry tomatoes bring sweet, vibrant flavor. A light seasoning keeps everything fresh and balanced. Each bite bursts with bright summer taste. Perfect as a side for grilled or roasted dishes.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Tomato Salad

Cucumber Onion Salad

Cucumber Onion Salad. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Crisp cucumbers and mild onions soak up a tangy-sweet vinegar dressing. Chilling deepens the refreshing flavor. Every bite feels light and cooling. A classic side for cookouts and comfort-food meals.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Onion Salad

Broccoli Slaw Salad

A plate of broccoli slaw with a dressing on it.
Broccoli Slaw Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crunchy broccoli slaw delivers bright color and texture. A zesty dressing adds bold, tangy flavor. Fresh ingredients keep every bite lively and satisfying. Great for lunches, picnics, or side dishes.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Slaw Salad

Green Bean Tomato Salad

Green beans and tomatoes on a white plate.
Green Bean Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Crisp green beans and juicy tomatoes create a fresh, colorful mix. Light seasoning highlights natural sweetness and brightness. A clean, satisfying bite works well with grilled dishes. Ideal for summer meals and gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Tomato Salad

Brussels Sprouts Salad

Brussels Sprouts Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Shaved Brussels sprouts offer a crisp, fresh texture. A light dressing balances savory and slightly sweet notes. Bold flavor comes together in every crunchy bite. A refreshing take on a classic vegetable.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Salad

Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

Tabbouleh Salad inside colorful bowls.
Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Fresh herbs and bright citrus bring classic Mediterranean flavor. Hemp seeds replace grains for a lighter, low-carb twist. A crisp, refreshing bite makes every serving satisfying. Perfect for healthy lunches or sides.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Tabbouleh Salad

Kachumber Salad

Kachumber salad in a white bowl with fancy silver spoons on the side.
Kachumber Salad. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions create a crisp, colorful base. Fresh herbs and citrus add bright, lively flavor. A touch of spice brings everything together. Perfect for pairing with Indian-inspired dishes.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber Salad

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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