I Gave Up On Being Fancy, So I Made These 15 Salads Instead
When plans fell apart and energy ran low, salads stepped in without asking for much. These 15 came in handy when I had zero interest in trying hard or cleaning up a mess. No prep marathons, no complicated steps, just easy wins that didn’t fight back. If you’re done pretending to be fancy, you’re not alone and this might help.
Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad
Looking for something hearty? Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad brings all the good stuff together in one bowl. It’s a great option when you’re looking for something filling but not too complicated. Whether you’re meal prepping or in a rush, this one works every time.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad
Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Sometimes, you just want something simple and crisp. Red Cabbage Coleslaw is exactly that, fresh and easy to throw together. It’s got a nice crunch and works as a great side for any meal. This recipe won’t overcomplicate things, just quick and to the point.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Avocado Salad
If you’re in the mood for something smooth, Avocado Salad is your go-to. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t need to be dressed up, just pure, clean goodness. No need to fuss with tons of ingredients; this one’s simple and straightforward. You can serve it with almost anything, and it’ll always fit right in.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Salad
Honeycrisp Salad
For when you need something light but still fulfilling, Honeycrisp Salad is there for you. It brings that sweet and crisp combo that everyone loves. This is perfect for when you’re not in the mood for anything too heavy but still want something filling. It’s the kind of salad that just works on its own.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad
7 Layer Salad
Who said salads had to be boring? 7 Layer Salad has all the variety you need, stacked up in layers that bring everything together. It’s easy to make and always looks impressive without much effort. When you want a crowd-pleaser that’s quick and simple, this is a solid pick.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies
Craving something with a little more heart? Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies hits the spot every time. It’s great if you want something substantial but not too heavy. A few simple ingredients, and you’ve got a filling, tasty dish that doesn’t require much time.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies
Easy Caprese Salad
Easy Caprese Salad is perfect when you want to keep it simple but fresh. This one is great if you need something that requires minimal work but still tastes great. It’s a great balance of flavors that don’t need to be complicated. Simple, clean, and ready to enjoy with just a few ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad
Mediterranean Orzo Salad
When you don’t want to spend too much time on a meal, Mediterranean Orzo Salad is the answer. It’s quick and packs a lot of variety without going overboard. This dish is easy to throw together, yet it’s anything but basic. It’ll keep you full and satisfied without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Macaroni Salad
Sometimes you just need a simple dish that checks all the boxes. Macaroni Salad is a classic that delivers without any unnecessary fuss. It’s filling and easy to whip up, even if you’re not in the mood to cook. This salad won’t overcomplicate your day but will keep you satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Looking for something with a little more kick? Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad gives you a quick bite of spice and crunch. It’s fresh but with just enough heat to keep things interesting. This is the kind of salad that’s perfect when you want something simple yet with a bit of punch.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Pasta Primavera
Pasta Primavera is a light go-to when you need something fast but still want a dish that feels like it’s got some effort behind it. It’s packed with texture and still simple enough to pull off on any day. You get the satisfaction of a hearty pasta with a little crunch mixed in. It’s comfort without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera
Waldorf Salad
If you’re looking for a salad that’s a bit more substantial without being over-the-top, Waldorf Salad is a solid choice. It’s packed with different textures, giving you something to crunch into while still being light. It’s an easy dish to throw together when you want a refreshing but filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad
Pizza Salad
Craving pizza but not in the mood for a slice? Pizza Salad lets you enjoy that pizza vibe without the heaviness. It’s the perfect way to indulge without it feeling like a cheat meal. A bit of fun and flavor make this a go-to when you’re keeping things simple but fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad
Harvest Salad
This salad gives you a good mix of hearty ingredients without making you feel overwhelmed. It’s simple but filling enough to hold you over until your next meal. Harvest Salad doesn’t require much time but delivers a good balance of textures. It’s the perfect option for when you want something easy yet complete.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad brings a bit of boldness without any complicated steps. It’s a fun and flavorful way to get some crunch and creaminess in one dish. If you want a salad that stands out a little more but still keeps it simple, this one’s a winner. It’s fulfilling and hits all the right notes without going overboard.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad
