16 Simple Salad Recipes That Feel Like a Full Meal

If you’re stuck in a salad rut or just craving something fresh and satisfying, this roundup has you covered. These salad recipes lean big on flavor, texture, and easy prep, making them perfect for busy weekdays, casual get-togethers, or meal prep that actually feels exciting. Whether you’re into crisp veggies, hearty beans, or protein-packed favorites, this collection proves that salads can be comforting, bold, and seriously crave-worthy without a lot of fuss.

Chinese Cucumber Salad

Would you like to save this?

We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!

This salad focuses on crisp cucumbers coated in a punchy dressing with garlic, vinegar, and a touch of heat. The texture stays snappy from the first bite to the last. It pairs well with heavier dishes because of its clean finish. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a subtle toasty note.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Cucumber Salad

Olive Salad Muffaletta Spread

This dish brings together chopped olives, pickled vegetables, and herbs in a briny mix. It is bold, salty, and packed with texture. Spoon it over bread, crackers, or grilled meats. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it great for make-ahead plans.
Get the Recipe: Olive Salad Muffaletta Spread

10-Minute Marinated Butter Bean Salad

Butter beans soak up a quick marinade of oil, acid, and aromatics. The result is creamy, bright, and deeply seasoned. Fresh herbs keep it lively without overpowering the beans. It comes together fast but tastes like it took longer.
Get the Recipe: 10-Minute Marinated Butter Bean Salad

Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwich

Shredded rotisserie chicken gives this sandwich filling a savory base. A balanced mix of creamy dressing and crunchy add-ins keeps every bite interesting. It works well piled onto soft bread or toasted rolls. This is a solid choice for lunches that need to feel substantial.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwich

4 Bean Salad

This classic mixes several beans with a tangy dressing that hits sweet and sharp notes. The beans hold their shape while absorbing the flavors. It improves after some time in the fridge. Each spoonful brings a slightly different texture.
Get the Recipe: 4 Bean Salad

Collard Greens Salad

A bowl of salad containing chopped spinach, avocado, cucumber, grape tomatoes, red onion, and pieces of cooked chicken. — Collard Greens Salad. Photo Credit: Low Calorie Eating.

Thinly sliced collards form a sturdy base that stands up to bold dressings. The leaves soften as they sit, becoming easier to chew. Add-ins like nuts or fruit bring contrast. This salad feels robust without being heavy.
Get the Recipe: Collard Greens Salad

Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic

A rectangular white plate with potato salad garnished with sliced green onions, placed on a rustic white wooden surface next to a green cloth napkin. — Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tender potatoes are tossed with fresh herbs and mild green garlic. The flavor leans aromatic rather than creamy. Olive oil ties everything together without masking the potatoes. It works warm or at room temperature.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic

Sauerkraut Salad

Sauerkraut brings sharpness and crunch to this simple salad. A light dressing balances the fermented bite. Optional additions like apples or onions add contrast. It cuts through rich foods nicely.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut Salad

Panzanella Salad – Tomato and Bread Salad

Juicy tomatoes soak into chunks of bread, creating a soft yet structured texture. A vinaigrette brings everything together without weighing it down. Fresh herbs lift the overall flavor. This salad is best when the tomatoes are at their peak.
Get the Recipe: Panzanella Salad – Tomato and Bread Salad

Greek Green Salad

A close-up of a fresh green salad with chopped lettuce, herbs, and small pieces of white cheese on a white plate. — Greek Green Salad. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Crisp greens are paired with olives, cucumbers, and a punchy dressing. The flavors stay clean and direct. Each ingredient keeps its identity. It is straightforward and reliable.
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Salad

Mixed Berry Pretzel Salad

A dessert bar with a pretzel crust, creamy layer, red gelatin, berries, whipped cream, and garnished with a strawberry slice, raspberries, blueberries, and a pretzel twist. — Mixed Berry Pretzel Salad. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This dish blends sweet berries with a salty pretzel crust. Creamy layers balance the fruit and crunch. The contrast makes every bite interesting. It works as a dessert-style salad that still feels playful.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Berry Pretzel Salad

Spicy Thai Carrot & Kale Salad

Shredded carrots and kale are coated in a bold, spicy dressing. The heat is balanced by sweetness and acidity. The vegetables stay crunchy even after dressing. It brings strong flavor without feeling heavy.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Thai Carrot & Kale Salad

Baby Kale Salad

A bowl of green leafy salad topped with roasted chickpeas, apple slices, and creamy dressing. — Baby Kale Salad. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Baby kale offers a tender texture with a mild bite. Simple toppings keep the greens front and center. A light dressing lets the leaves shine. This salad is easy to customize.
Get the Recipe: Baby Kale Salad

Chicken Salad Melt Sandwich

Warm, toasted bread turns this chicken salad into something extra comforting. The filling stays creamy while the exterior gets crisp. Melted cheese adds richness without overwhelming the chicken. It is best served straight from the pan.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad Melt Sandwich

Chinese Chicken Salad

This salad mixes shredded chicken with crisp vegetables and a savory dressing. Crunchy toppings add texture throughout. The balance of salty, sweet, and tangy keeps it lively. It holds up well even after being dressed.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Garbanzo Bean Salad

Garbanzo beans form a hearty base that absorbs bold flavors. Fresh vegetables add crunch and color. A simple dressing keeps it clean and balanced. It works as a side or a standalone dish.
Get the Recipe: Garbanzo Bean Salad