21 Salads to Keep You Full All Afternoon

Save For Later

Mexican Street Corn Salad

There’s something about this Mexican street corn salad that makes it impossible to resist. The sweet corn is perfectly crisp and juicy, tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing that has just the right kick of spice. Every bite is a mix of crunchy, zesty, and a little smoky, making it the kind of dish you keep going back to for “just one more scoop.” It’s vibrant, satisfying, and the kind of flavor explosion that steals the spotlight at any potluck or dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Caesar Pasta Salad

The mix of crisp veggies and the bold, tangy punch of Caesar dressing makes this pasta salad an instant hit every single time. It strikes that perfect balance—creamy and flavorful, yet still light enough to enjoy alongside everything else on the table. Whenever I bring it, the bowl always empties quicker than I expect, and I usually catch people sneaking back for seconds (or thirds). By the end of the night, I’m almost always scribbling down the recipe for at least a handful of people who don’t want the party to end without it.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Pasta Salad

Broccoli Salad With Bacon

Tender broccoli gets a major flavor upgrade when it’s paired with smoky bacon and the nutty crunch of sunflower seeds. The mix of textures keeps every bite interesting, while the salty, savory notes balance out the fresh greens perfectly. Even folks who usually skip over broccoli find themselves going back for seconds. It’s the kind of dish that surprises people and wins them over without trying too hard.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad With Bacon

Fig Salad with Blue Cheese

This fig salad always disappears fast at gatherings, and for good reason. Baby spinach gets just the right amount of brightness from a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, while sweet figs add a juicy pop of flavor. The salty bite of prosciutto and creamy crumbles of blue cheese balance everything perfectly, and the caramelized pecans give it that irresistible crunch. Plates are usually scraped clean in no time, and I almost always find myself scribbling down the recipe before the night is even over.
Get the Recipe: Fig Salad with Blue Cheese

Red Skin Potato Salad

This red-skin potato salad is the ultimate comfort side, bringing together tender potatoes, a creamy dressing, and the smoky goodness of crispy bacon. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but also pairs beautifully with all your favorite grilled mains. The rich, savory flavor makes it an instant crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, summer barbecues, or family cookouts. Once you set it on the table, don’t be surprised if it disappears before you even get seconds.
Get the Recipe: Red Skin Potato Salad

Green Goddess Salad

This Green Goddess Salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it the perfect go-to when you want something fresh and fuss-free. The vibrant greens, paired with a creamy herby dressing, create a balance of crispness and richness that feels both light and satisfying. It’s versatile enough to enjoy as a refreshing side dish, but it also works beautifully as a dip for crunchy veggies or even layered into a sandwich for extra flavor. However you serve it, it’s one of those dishes that brightens up the table and makes you feel like you’re eating something special without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Green Goddess Salad

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

This wheat berry salad is the kind of dish that actually feels like a meal. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s hearty enough to keep you satisfied while still tasting fresh and light. Juicy tomatoes add a burst of brightness, and the simple lemon-kissed dressing ties all the flavors together in the best way. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and the kind of salad you’ll actually want seconds of.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Shaved Asparagus Blood Orange Salad

This shaved asparagus and blood orange salad is the kind of dish that feels as good as it looks. The crisp asparagus ribbons and juicy citrus bring a fresh, vibrant bite, while the toasted quinoa adds a nutty crunch that keeps each forkful interesting. It’s light enough to serve as a starter, yet satisfying enough to hold its own as a side dish. Refreshing, colorful, and full of texture, it’s a salad that instantly brightens up the table.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Asparagus Blood Orange Salad

Autumn Salad with Chicken

This autumn salad with chicken is packed with crisp textures and bold, seasonal flavors that feel both comforting and refreshing. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table a little faster, and it always seems to disappear first at family meals. While it shines in the fall with its colorful ingredients, it’s versatile enough to enjoy year-round whenever you’re craving something hearty yet light. Serve it up for lunch, dinner, or even as a holiday side, and you’ll quickly see why it’s become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Autumn Salad with Chicken

Butternut Squash Panzanella Salad

This dish takes the cozy sweetness of roasted butternut squash and pairs it with the rustic charm of a classic Italian panzanella. The contrast of caramelized squash, hearty bread, and bright, fresh accents makes every bite feel both comforting and refreshing. It’s the kind of salad that feels just right for crisp autumn days—filling enough to stand on its own but still light enough to keep you coming back for seconds. Perfect for a potluck or a casual dinner, it brings a warm, seasonal twist to a beloved favorite.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Panzanella Salad

Salmon Salad

Enjoy a meal that feels both nourishing and satisfying with this fresh salmon salad. It’s made with crisp, vibrant ingredients that come together in a way that tastes light yet full of flavor. The best part is how easy it is to prepare—perfect for busy days when you still want something wholesome. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep, it’s a dish that leaves you feeling good without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Salad

Smoked Fish Crostini with Fresh Herb Salad

Golden, crispy sourdough baguette slices make the perfect foundation for a layer of silky whipped ricotta, topped with a bright herb salad and thin slices of smoked fish. The combination feels both elevated and approachable, with smoky, creamy, and tangy notes coming together in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that looks impressive but comes together without fuss, making it just as fitting for a cozy evening with friends as it is for a special dinner gathering. By letting each ingredient shine, it proves that simple, thoughtful pairings can create something truly memorable.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Fish Crostini with Fresh Herb Salad

Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

When spring produce starts showing up at the market, this salad is exactly what I want to make. It’s loaded with fresh asparagus, tender potatoes, and sweet peas, so it feels hearty enough to stand on its own but still light and refreshing. Since it comes together with barely any cooking, it’s one of those dishes that feels effortless yet impressive. Tossed in a creamy, lemony dressing, the flavors really pop, making it just as perfect for a casual weeknight dinner as it is for sharing at a potluck or backyard BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Strawberry Spring Mix Salad

This Strawberry Poppyseed Salad is the kind of dish that feels as good as it looks. Fresh spring greens make a crisp base for sweet, juicy strawberries, while tangy crumbles of feta add just the right punch of flavor. The sugared almonds bring a satisfying crunch that keeps every bite interesting, and the homemade poppyseed dressing ties it all together with a touch of sweetness. Light, colorful, and full of texture, it’s the perfect salad to brighten up your table, whether you’re serving it for lunch or alongside dinner.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Spring Mix Salad

Bell Pepper Cucumber Salad

Bell Pepper Cucumber Salad is light, crisp, and full of bright flavors that instantly wake up your taste buds. The mix of crunchy bell peppers, cool cucumbers, and sharp onion creates the perfect balance of fresh and tangy. Tossed in a simple vinaigrette, it’s refreshing enough to enjoy on a hot day yet versatile enough to pair with almost any meal. Whether you serve it as a side at dinner or snack on it straight from the fridge, it’s the kind of dish that always feels satisfying without being heavy.
Get the Recipe: Bell Pepper Cucumber Salad

Caprese Salad

A Caprese salad is one of those dishes that instantly makes any table feel brighter and fresher. With sweet, sun-ripened tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and the unmistakable aroma of fresh basil, it’s simple but never boring. A drizzle of tangy-sweet balsamic glaze ties everything together, giving just the right balance of richness and freshness. Served chilled, it’s light enough for hot summer days yet elegant enough to impress at a gathering.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Salad

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Bite into summer with this Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious. The peaches get a subtle smokiness from the grill, which pairs beautifully with juicy tomatoes and crisp sugar snap peas. Tossed in a bright, tangy dressing and finished with creamy feta and pickled onions, it’s a dish that feels both fresh and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled steaks, roasted chicken, or just enjoying it on its own, this salad is guaranteed to steal the show at your table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)

The Russian Vinaigrette Salad is a timeless dish that brings with it a comforting sense of tradition and familiarity. Made with tender root vegetables, tangy pickles, and the fresh touch of dill, it’s a colorful salad that feels both hearty and refreshing. Its balance of flavors makes it a reliable favorite for family tables, potlucks, and cozy gatherings alike. More than just a recipe, it’s a dish that invites you to slow down and savor the flavors of the past while sharing it with the people you love.
Get the Recipe: Russian Vinaigrette Salad (Root Vegetable Salad)

Smoked Egg Salad Recipe

This egg salad takes a familiar favorite and gives it a bold upgrade by using smoked eggs instead of the usual hard-boiled ones. The gentle smokiness adds a rich, savory depth that lingers with every bite, making the dish feel a little more special without a lot of extra effort. It works beautifully tucked into a sandwich, rolled up in a wrap, or scooped onto crackers for something lighter. Whether you’re packing lunch or planning a picnic, this smoky egg salad brings a flavorful twist that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Egg Salad Recipe

Citrus Salad with Pomegranate Dressing

This Citrus Salad with Pomegranate Dressing is as refreshing as it is eye-catching, bursting with bright colors and bold flavors. The juicy citrus pairs beautifully with the tangy-sweet dressing, creating a dish that feels light yet satisfying. It’s a simple way to celebrate peak citrus season while sneaking in plenty of immune-boosting nutrients. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it on a quiet afternoon, it’s guaranteed to lift your mood and add a burst of sunshine to your day.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Salad with Pomegranate Dressing

Shrimp Louie Salad

A Classic Shrimp Louie Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that never goes out of style. The crisp lettuce, juicy shrimp, and creamy dressing come together for a light yet flavorful meal that feels both comforting and special. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a breezy dinner, or even as a centerpiece at a gathering when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a version that tastes just as good—if not better—than what you’d get at a restaurant.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Louie Salad