Holiday foods are often rich and heavy, so a crisp, colorful salad can provide welcome balance. This collection showcases my many favorites!
Following is a list of my favorite salads, which can easily be scaled to serve to a crowd. The balance of crisp and acidic, fresh, and crunchy, pairs well with richer foods like potatoes, meats, and fried foods. Your guests will thank you the next day and your plates will look vibrant and appealing – more photo-worthy too!
Jeweled Salad
This stunning salad adds fresh flavor and visual appeal to weeknight dinners and holiday meals alike. And while the recipe is delightful as is, there are many ways to customize depending on what you like and have on hand.
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Brussels Sprouts Salad with Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette
Exceptional flavor and versatility are the hallmarks of this vibrant salad, which makes a meal out of virtually any protein, from chicken and pork to salmon, shrimp, steak, and burgers. Plus, the prep is nearly effortless when using a package of pre-shredded Brussels sprouts!
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Mandarin Mixed Green Salad
A crisp, colorful salad can breathe life into a winter meal, and this fresh combination delivers palette pleasing flavor and texture: sweet oranges, buttery avocado, a pop of salty feta, and a bed of crisp greens. And the flavor-packed vinaigrette is worth returning to again and again!
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Everyday Kale Salad
A short list of fresh ingredients pair with pantry staples to deliver a kaleidoscope of flavors, colors, and textural appeal while offering a flexible base upon which to build.
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Fall Slaw
A bag of slaw mix offers a convenient shortcut in this crisp, wholesome, seasonal salad. The easy vinaigrette is loaded with flavor and is equally delicious on broccoli and kale salads as well as a variety of other green and grain-based salads.
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Roquefort Pear or Apple Salad
This family favorite salad is sweet and tangy from the fruit, sharp and salty from the blue cheese, and delightfully crunchy from the caramelized pecans. The easy vinaigrette pulls it all together and can be kept on hand for healthy, satisfying salads at a moment's notice.
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Emerald Lentil Salad
A palette of greens adds interest to this hearty, wholesome, plant-based salad, which is well suited to meal planning, potlucks, and taking to a friend in need. I appreciate how the truly simple and nutrient-dense ingredients deliver outstanding flavor and keep me full for hours.
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My Favorite Broccoli Salad
Perfect for a potluck, casual entertaining, or a satisfying lunch, this tried-and-true rendition of the classic broccoli salad can be assembled in advance in minimal time and varied according to preference. When using bacon, I like to add just before serving to keep it crispy. Nuts and seeds will also maintain optimal crunch when sprinkled overtop at the last minute.
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Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
Shredded Brussels sprouts meet classic Caesar dressing in this versatile, make-ahead salad that's perfect for holiday meals, neighborhood potlucks, easy weeknight dinners, and packable lunches. For a complete meal, top with chicken, salmon, shrimp, steak, or another protein of choice.
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Spinach Pomegranate Salad with Vanilla Vinaigrette
I could add double the pomegranate to this salad and be one happy camper! That said, the arils (or edible seeds) from just one of these sweet-tart fruits make this salad something special. A chopped apple or pear is a welcome addition and a good substitution for the times when you may not have a pomegranate on hand.
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Roasted Beet and Green Bean Salad
Clever cooking techniques, make-ahead convenience, and lots of options add to the appeal of this vibrant salad. The versatile vinaigrette is an absolute keeper that comes together quickly with basic pantry items.
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Crunch Salad
Make these ingredients refrigerator staples for convenient, healthy salads in minutes. Tossed with your favorite dressing, this simple side dish tastes so good that you'll forget it's so good for you. Top with your favorite protein for a satisfying, complete meal.
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Lemon Dijon Kale Salad with Sweet Potatoes & Apples
With a combination of creamy, crunchy, and crisp ingredients, this wholesome salad is sure to satisfy, and leftovers hold up well. For a protein-rich complete meal, top with grilled or roasted chicken or salmon－or white beans or seared tofu for complementary meatless alternatives.
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The Best Vegan Caesar Salad
Give yourself time to soak the sunflower seeds, as they form the foundation of this healthy dressing. The end result is an incredibly satisfying salad with flavor worthy of a 5-star restaurant!
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