Just Enough Healthy Starts With 15 Simple Salads

Getting a little balance without going full green-machine mode is the sweet spot, and that’s what these 15 simple salads are about. They feel like the kind of meals that say, “Yes, I’m trying,” but also know there’s ice cream in the freezer. It’s just the right kind of healthy that fits into regular life, not a fitness challenge.

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

A bowl of Mexican street corn salad garnished with lime wedges and cilantro.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re looking for a salad with bold flavors, Mexican Street Corn Salad is one to try. It’s packed with a unique mix of tastes that really stand out without being overwhelming. The salad strikes a balance between being light and still full of lovely textures.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Kala Chana Chaat

Kala chana chaat served in a blue bowl.
Kala Chana Chaat. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Bringing together vibrant and hearty flavors, Kala Chana Chaat is a salad perfect for those who love bold, spicy combinations. It has a fresh quality that makes it light and refreshing while still hearty enough to keep you full. This dish is versatile and works well whether you serve it as a snack or a simple starter.
Get the Recipe: Kala Chana Chaat

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

A bowl of orzo salad with mixed vegetables, including olives, tomatoes, and spinach, garnished with herbs.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a salad that feels light but still has substance, try Mediterranean Orzo Salad. It blends different textures beautifully and is perfect for a meal that’s quick yet satisfying. The subtle flavors work well for those who enjoy clean, straightforward dishes.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Kachumber

Kachumber salad in a grey bowl.
Kachumber. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

A refreshing option for any meal, Kachumber is a salad that embraces simplicity while staying flavorful. It’s quick to make and brings a fresh crunch to your plate without any fuss. The straightforward preparation makes it easy to whip up even on busy days.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber

Curried Chicken Salad

Close-up of a dish featuring a creamy yellow curry with chunks of vegetables, cashews, and raisins, garnished with fresh herbs.
Curried Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

If you’re looking for something flavorful yet filling, Curried Chicken Salad might be just the recipe you need. It manages to combine exciting flavors while remaining simple and approachable. Easy to make and great for meal prep, this salad can also work wonderfully for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For seafood lovers, Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing offers a mix of rich flavors and wholesome textures. It’s not overly complicated but makes an impression with its combination of shrimp and smooth dressing. Perfect for upgrading your lunch or dinner with something special.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A wonderful salad with a sweet and savory twist, Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is as versatile as can be. It’s satisfying enough to be the main meal, or can easily complement other dishes. With its mixture of unique textures, it brings variety to your plate in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Cucumber Peanut Salad

A bowl of chopped cucumber salad mixed with nuts and fresh herbs.
Cucumber Peanut Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Combining crunch with simplicity, Cucumber Peanut Salad is a quick and refreshing option for any meal. Its textures make every bite enjoyable without overwhelming you. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy days, it works well as a snack or side dish. If you want something light and crisp, this salad is an excellent pick.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Peanut Salad

Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Close-up of a delightful broccoli salad with crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing. Mixed ingredients are visible in detail, showcasing the vibrant textures and colors of this fresh broccoli salad.
Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Light yet creamy, Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing is a recipe that’s simple but feels a little transformed. Its crunch makes it enjoyable, but the dressing balances everything out nicely. Great for prepping ahead, it’s a dish you can whip up for both casual meals or to share at a gathering.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

A bowl of fresh red cabbage coleslaw garnished with herbs.
Red Cabbage Coleslaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Vibrant and versatile, Red Cabbage Coleslaw is a salad option that pairs well with so many meals. Its freshness adds a great pop of flavor without being too heavy. Perfect for quick preparation, this dish is a straightforward choice for a busy day or a casual get-together.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

7 Layer Salad

A salad bowl filled with vegetables and peas.
7 Layer Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you need a salad that’s sure to impress, 7 Layer Salad brings a variety of flavors and textures without complicating your prep time. It’s ideal for sharing, but also works when you want to prep ahead for a week’s meals. The balance between light and filling makes it perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad

Taco Pasta Salad

A bowl of fusilli pasta mixed with ground beef, black beans, chopped tomatoes, and herbs, garnished with lime wedges.
Taco Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combining hearty ingredients into one dish, Taco Pasta Salad is especially great for making meals fun and easy. Its mix of flavors and textures makes it filling without being too heavy to enjoy. Great for serving at gatherings or just prepping for a quick lunch, it’s versatile and approachable.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Chunks of tomato, cucumber, and onion in a bowl.
Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Light and refreshing, Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad is a simple recipe perfect for busy days or quick meals. Its fresh flavors make it an easy choice for pairing with nearly any main dish. The minimal prep means this salad comes together in no time for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Tomato, Cucumber, and Onion Salad

Potato Salad

Close-up of creamy potato salad with chopped celery and black pepper seasoning.
Potato Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A well-loved classic, Potato Salad is always a good idea for something hearty yet somewhat light. Easy to prepare, it fits perfectly in meal plans, whether for gatherings or just meal-prepping for the week. Its simple flavors ensure it pairs effortlessly with many dishes.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A reliable option for anytime meals, Cobb Salad is a salad that feels hearty and wholesome without being complicated. Its layers bring variety to each bite, keeping things interesting without overdoing it. Ideal for making quickly yet feeling substantial, it works wonderfully as both a meal and a side dish.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

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