With Simple salads with a little something extra, you’ll have no trouble finding something delicious to make. These recipes are fuss-free, flavorful, and perfect for everything from quick lunches to lingering dinners. They’re the kind of meals that make cooking feel effortless.

Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef

Taco salad in edible salad bowl.
Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Perfectly homemade and super easy Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican ground beef made out of wholesome ingredients will be your go-to dinner for every single Taco Tuesday. Entirely gluten-free, grain-free, low carb, and perfect for diabetics, our edible salad bowl is just a little extra touch to the already healthy taco salad you have been craving for.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Taco Salad Bowl with Mexican Ground Beef

Southwest Ranch Chicken Salad Sandwich

Southwest ranch chicken salad sandwich on pumpernickel.
Southwest Ranch Chicken Salad Sandwich. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This ranch chicken salad cheddar melt is infused with southwestern flavors. Piled high on pumpernickel bread with lots of melted cheese, it’s a mouthwatering lunch.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Ranch Chicken Salad Sandwich

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.

Chicken breast, heart-heathy walnuts, and sweet cranberries team up in this stunning chicken salad that’s as delicious on a sandwich is it is just on the end of a fork.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

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.

Loaded with protein and fiber-rich wheat berries, this easy salad is a hearty meal. Filled with flavor and nutrition, you get a pop of freshness from the tomatoes and the dressing has a touch of lemon to tie it all together. Delish!
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Broccoli Salad with Bacon

A bowl of broccoli salad with bacon.
Broccoli Salad with Bacon. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

This Broccoli Salad with Bacon is a low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free delight. It’s a combination of crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, and a creamy dressing. The addition of cheese and nuts adds depth and texture. It’s a versatile dish, ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a nutritious side. Preparation is straightforward and takes about 15 minutes, making it a convenient and tasty option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Bacon

Easy Cold Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

A white bowl filled with tri-color rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber chunks, and feta cheese on a red-and-white checkered tablecloth.
Easy Cold Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

We love pasta but not hot pasta during hot weather. The simplest way to satisfy that pasta craving was creating a cold pasta salad, which, in the winter, can be served as a side instead of the main course.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cold Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

Green Jacket Salad Recipe

A fresh green jacket salad with a variety of vegetables and a light dressing.
Green Jacket Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

This Green Jacket Salad Recipe features a vibrant mix of greens and fresh ingredients with a zesty dressing. It’s a nutritious and delicious salad for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Green Jacket Salad Recipe

Barley Salad with Herbs & Lemon Vinaigrette

A bowl of barley salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley sits on a plate, with a spoonful of salad being held above the bowl.
Barley Salad with Herbs & Lemon Vinaigrette. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Hearty barley gives this salad a chewy texture, while lemon and fresh herbs keep it light and bright. It’s filling without being heavy and makes a great lunch or picnic dish.
Get the Recipe: Barley Salad with Herbs & Lemon Vinaigrette

Beet Salad with Goat Cheese & Walnuts

A plate of Beet Salad with Goat Cheese & Walnuts, served with a fork and spoon on the side.
Beet Salad with Goat Cheese & Walnuts. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

This beet salad balances sweet, earthy roots with creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts. It’s elegant enough for guests but easy enough for any weekday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad with Goat Cheese & Walnuts

Black Bean Salad with Cumin-Lime Dressing

A white bowl containing a salad of black beans, chopped lettuce, red bell peppers, and green onions on a wooden surface—perfect inspiration for simple salads and easy salads.
Black Bean Salad with Cumin-Lime Dressing. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Bright, zesty, and incredibly easy to prepare, this Black Bean Salad with Cumin-Lime Dressing is a must-try! Perfect as a side dish or a quick lunch, it’s packed with protein and bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Salad with Cumin-Lime Dressing

Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans

A croissant sandwich filled with chicken salad, grapes, celery, lettuce, and chopped nuts is placed on a dark wooden surface—perfect inspiration for those seeking unique salads or creative salad recipes.
Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is a great addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting or just looking for something tasty to make, this one fits the bill perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans

Chickpea Salad Recipe

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

Fresh, hearty, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this Chickpea Salad is a game-changer! Whether for meal prep or a quick bite, it’s filled with protein and wholesome goodness.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Salad Recipe

Pear Salad – An Old-fashioned Southern Favorite

Pear Salad – An Old-fashioned Southern Favorite. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Pear Salad – An Old-fashioned Southern Favorite is a great addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting or just looking for something tasty to make, this one fits the bill perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Pear Salad – An Old-fashioned Southern Favorite

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

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