20 Protein-Loaded Salads That Keep You Full
Bacon and Egg Salad
Bacon and egg salad is a deliciously satisfying dish that brings the cozy, familiar flavors of breakfast into a whole new form. Imagine creamy chopped hard-boiled eggs mixed with crisp, smoky bacon pieces, all brought together with a touch of mayo or mustard for that classic salad texture. It’s hearty enough to enjoy for lunch or dinner, not just in the morning. Whether you pile it high on toasted bread for a sandwich or scoop it onto lettuce for a lighter option, it’s a versatile and flavorful twist on a timeless combo. It’s comfort food that doesn’t require much fuss, but delivers big on taste.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Egg Salad
Fruit & Pecan Chicken Salad
This fruit and pecan chicken salad is a delicious blend of savory and sweet that feels both light and satisfying. Tender shredded chicken is tossed with juicy grapes, sweet pineapple, and dried cranberries for a pop of natural sweetness in every bite. Crunchy pecans add texture and richness, while a creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt and mayo ties it all together. It's the kind of salad that makes you feel good—perfect for a healthy lunch or a refreshing dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Fruit & Pecan Chicken Salad
Grilled Steak Strawberry Salad
This unique and vibrant salad brings together the bold, savory flavor of grilled steak with the sweet juiciness of fresh strawberries for a truly unexpected but delicious combination. The contrast between the warm, tender meat and the cool, crisp greens creates a refreshing balance that’s both satisfying and light. A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together with a tangy finish. Perfect for warm weather or grilling season, it’s a go-to dish when you want something hearty yet fresh. Whether served as a main course or a fancy side, it’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Steak Strawberry Salad
Italian Tuna Potato Salad
This hearty Italian tuna potato salad is a flavorful, satisfying dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch or weeknight dinner. Tender potatoes are tossed with flaky tuna, briny olives, and fresh herbs, creating a balanced mix of textures and bold Mediterranean flavors. It’s light yet filling, with just the right amount of zest and richness in every bite. Whether you're serving it warm or chilled, this salad is a comforting twist on classic tuna salad that feels a little fancy—but is still incredibly easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Italian Tuna Potato Salad
Ensalada de Gallina (Venezuelan Chicken Potato Salad)
Ensalada de Gallina Venezolana, or Venezuelan Chicken Potato Salad, is a cherished holiday staple in many Venezuelan households—especially during Christmas and New Year celebrations. This creamy and flavorful cold salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a heartwarming tradition that brings people together around the table. Made with tender chicken, soft potatoes, crunchy vegetables, and a rich mayonnaise dressing, it strikes the perfect balance between comforting and refreshing. Every bite evokes the joy of festive gatherings, laughter, and shared memories. If you’re looking to explore the vibrant flavors of Venezuelan cuisine, this classic dish is a delicious and meaningful place to start.
Get the Recipe: Ensalada de Gallina (Venezuelan Chicken Potato Salad)
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes
This hearty salad is packed with protein and fiber-rich wheat berries, making it a filling and satisfying meal on its own. Each bite delivers a wholesome, nutty chew from the grains, balanced perfectly by the juicy burst of fresh tomatoes. The simple lemon-kissed dressing adds just the right amount of brightness to bring all the flavors together. It’s the kind of feel-good dish that’s both nourishing and delicious—great for lunch, meal prep, or a light dinner. You’ll love how easy it is to throw together, yet it tastes like something special.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes
Chickpea Salmon Salad
This chickpea salmon salad is a deliciously simple dish that brings together a satisfying mix of textures and flavors—savory salmon, hearty chickpeas, and just the right amount of crunch from red onion. A splash of apple cider vinegar and a touch of garlic give it a zesty kick, balancing out the natural richness of the salmon. It’s one of those recipes that feels both nourishing and comforting, without taking much time at all—just toss everything together and it's ready in under 10 minutes. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a high-protein snack, this salad checks all the boxes. It's proof that healthy eating can be both easy and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Salmon Salad
20-Minute Mexican Style Chicken Salad
This 20-Minute Mexican-Style Chicken Salad is a quick, delicious dish perfect for picnics, meal prep, parties, and potlucks, offering fresh and vibrant flavors in every bite.
Get the Recipe: 20-Minute Mexican Style Chicken Salad
Summer Salmon Salad
This no-cook summer salmon salad is a feast for the eyes and the appetite, bursting with vibrant colors and fresh, wholesome ingredients. It's the kind of dish that feels like a treat but comes together effortlessly—no stove, no oven, just simple prep and big flavor. Perfect for those sweltering summer days or when you're short on time, this salad delivers a refreshing, nourishing meal without the hassle. The tender salmon pairs beautifully with crisp veggies, creating a light yet satisfying bite that leaves you feeling full and energized. Whether you're enjoying it on your porch with a glass of iced tea or sharing it at a casual cookout, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Get the Recipe: Summer Salmon Salad
Dill Pickle Tuna Salad
This Dill Pickle Tuna Salad is the kind of easy, flavor-packed lunch that hits the spot every time. It’s creamy and tangy with just the right amount of zip from mustard, perfectly balanced by the briny crunch of chopped dill pickles. Finely diced red onion and crisp celery bring a fresh bite and satisfying texture, making each forkful feel vibrant and hearty. Whether you’re tucking it into a sandwich, stuffing it in lettuce wraps, or scooping it onto crackers, it’s a simple recipe that feels like comfort food with a twist. Best of all, it comes together in minutes—ideal for busy days when you still want something homemade and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Dill Pickle Tuna Salad
Fresh Tuna Cucumber And Ricotta Cheese Salad
This easy and wholesome ricotta salad is the perfect balance of creamy, fresh, and satisfying. With velvety ricotta as the star, it brings a rich texture that pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables or juicy fruit, depending on your mood. It’s light enough to enjoy on a warm day, yet filling enough to stand alone as a quick lunch or pair with grilled meats for dinner. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a go-to option when you want something delicious without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Whether you're making it for a casual meal at home or bringing it to a summer potluck, this salad feels effortlessly special.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Tuna Cucumber And Ricotta Cheese Salad
Thai Chicken Salad With Peanut Dressing
This Thai-inspired peanut chicken salad is the kind of dish that makes you look forward to lunch. It’s packed with vibrant flavors and a variety of textures that keep every bite interesting—think crisp cabbage, tender slices of chicken breast, crunchy peanuts, and a silky peanut dressing that brings everything together in the most delicious way. What really sets this salad apart, though, is the sweet surprise of juicy peaches, which add a pop of freshness that perfectly balances out the rich, savory notes. It’s colorful, satisfying, and just the right mix of wholesome and indulgent, making it a go-to meal for sunny days. Once you’ve had a taste, don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite summer staple.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Salad With Peanut Dressing
Mexican Shrimp Salad
This Mexican Shrimp Salad is the kind of meal you turn to when it’s too hot to even think about turning on the stove. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor—just what you need on a blazing summer day. Juicy, tender shrimp are paired with crunchy veggies and creamy avocado, then everything gets coated in a zingy lime-chili dressing that brings a gentle kick without being overpowering. The textures and flavors all work together beautifully to create a dish that’s both satisfying and energizing. It’s the perfect balance of cool and spicy, making it feel like a mini vacation in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Shrimp Salad
Cobb Salad with Salmon and Everything but the Bagel Dressing
This Cobb Salad with Salmon and Everything But the Bagel Dressing is a fresh and flavorful spin on the beloved bagel-and-lox combination. Instead of piling everything on a bagel, this version layers vibrant greens, flaky smoked salmon, creamy avocado slices, crisp red onions, and briny capers into a hearty, satisfying salad. The Everything But the Bagel dressing ties it all together with that signature garlicky, oniony crunch, giving you all the flavors you crave—without the heaviness. It’s a great option if you love everything bagels but want something a bit lighter and more nutrient-packed. Whether for lunch or dinner, this salad feels indulgent but leaves you feeling good.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad with Salmon and Everything but the Bagel Dressing
Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad
This Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad is a bold, flavor-packed dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. In just 10 minutes, you can throw together juicy grilled chicken, sweet roasted corn, creamy cotija cheese, and a bright burst of lime—finished off with a kick of chili powder for that irresistible street corn flair. The result is a refreshing, zesty salad that feels like a fiesta in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, something exciting to bring to a summer BBQ, or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this one’s got you covered. It’s hearty, vibrant, and sure to be a hit wherever it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad
Shrimp Macaroni Salad
Elevate your salad routine with this irresistible shrimp macaroni salad that’s anything but ordinary. Each bite is a creamy, tangy blend of tender pasta and juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp, creating a refreshing twist on a classic favorite. The flavors are bright and zesty, with just the right amount of seasoning to bring everything together. It’s the kind of dish that feels both comforting and fancy—perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a satisfying lunch you’ll actually look forward to. Once you try it, you'll wonder why you ever settled for plain pasta salad.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Macaroni Salad
Turmeric Chicken Salad
This vibrant chicken salad gets a flavorful and nutritious twist from the addition of fresh turmeric root, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The golden turmeric not only brightens up the dish visually but also adds a subtle earthy depth that pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing. With crunchy bits throughout and tender chunks of chicken, it's a satisfying and wholesome option for a gluten-free lunch. Enjoy it piled onto toasted bread for a hearty sandwich or spooned into crisp lettuce wraps for a lighter, refreshing meal.
Get the Recipe: Turmeric Chicken Salad
Asian Chicken Salad
This Asian Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing meal that brings together juicy, tender chicken with crisp, colorful vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers. Tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet sesame-ginger dressing, every bite is bursting with flavor and crunch. It’s the kind of salad that feels light and healthy, but still keeps you full and satisfied thanks to the protein-packed chicken. Whether you're prepping a quick weekday lunch or want something lighter for dinner, this dish is both easy to make and totally crave-worthy. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the bold, fresh flavors of Asian-inspired cuisine at home.
Get the Recipe: Asian Chicken Salad
Healthy French Asparagus And Tuna Salad Without Mayo
Fresh Tuna Niçoise Salad is a hearty and elegant dish that brings together the bold flavors of rare grilled or pan-seared tuna with tender, creamy new potatoes and a medley of crisp, garden-fresh vegetables. Each bite offers a satisfying contrast—cool and crunchy greens, warm and silky potatoes, and the rich, savory taste of perfectly cooked tuna. A zesty, tangy vinaigrette ties everything together, adding a punch of brightness that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. The salad is crowned with a soft-boiled egg, its golden yolk spilling luxuriously over the plate to create a rich, velvety finish. It’s a meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent—perfect for a special dinner or a flavorful lunch that leaves you feeling truly satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Healthy French Asparagus And Tuna Salad Without Mayo
Antipasto Farro Salad
This antipasto farro salad is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the bold, savory elements of Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. It’s packed with a variety of textures and tastes—from the chewy, nutty farro to the briny olives, tangy marinated veggies, and rich cured meats. Every bite delivers a satisfying mix of freshness and umami, making it perfect as a light lunch or a crowd-pleasing side dish. Whether you're meal prepping or entertaining, this salad holds up well and tastes even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Farro Salad
