7 Healthy and Hearty Salads That Are Anything but Boring


7 Healthy and Hearty Salads That Are Anything but Boring

Say goodbye to sad desk lunches made with limp lettuce! These vibrant, flavor-packed salads are hearty enough for dinner and exciting enough that you’ll actually look forward to them. With homemade dressings, satisfying proteins, and plenty of crunch, they prove that eating your greens can be the best part of your day.

Spinach salad with apple, pecans, and onion in bowl.

Everything you need to make a crave-worthy salad!

cookbook author erin clarke of well plated

I have to admit, I am that person who will gladly choose the salad on any restaurant menu.

Salads are my happy food. I love the colors! The textures! Not to mention the freshness and how good I feel after eating them.

But I know not everyone feels that way and I think I know why: some salads are better than others. So let’s talk about what makes a salad GREAT:

  • Crunch. Toasted nuts, seeds, croutons, or crispy tortilla strips add texture that keeps things interesting.
  • Bold and Sassy Dressings. A homemade vinaigrette, creamy herb dressing, or spicy peanut sauce can completely transform basic greens.
  • A Pop of Sweetness. Fresh fruit, dried cranberries, or a drizzle of honey balances tangy dressings and assertive greens like arugula.
  • Protein for Satisfaction. Beans, grilled steak, salmon, tofu, or hard-boiled eggs turn a side salad into a full meal.
  • A Little Bit of Indulgence. Crumbled feta, goat cheese, avocado, or a dollop of yogurt dressing will add just the right amount of richness and depth.

You can use these elements to put together your own salad (this has some good mix-and-match tips too!), or make one of the recipes below, which have the perfect balance of ingredients for maximum satisfaction. 

Let’s dig in!

Spinach salad with apple, pecans, and onion in bowl.

Spinach Salad

This fresh spinach salad is layered with crisp veggies, crunchy toppings, and a tangy-sweet dressing that ties it all together. It’s simple, balanced, and perfect as a light lunch or dinner side.

Check out this recipe

Pear salad in bowl with walnuts, feta, and cranberries

Pear Salad

Juicy pears, creamy cheese, and crunchy nuts make this pear salad a beautiful blend of sweet and savory. It’s elegant enough for entertaining but easy enough for a weeknight.

Check out this recipe

A bowl of kale salad topped with shaved Parmesan cheese, crispy chickpeas, and croutons. A fork rests in the bowl. Lime wedges and a small bowl of dressing are on the side. The background is a light-colored surface.

Kale Caesar Salad

This kale Caesar salad swaps traditional romaine for hearty kale, creating a bold, satisfying twist on the classic. It tastes just like the Sweetgreen version thanks to an unexpected squeeze of lime!

Check out this recipe

Overhead view of Mediterranean salad in bowl

Mediterranean Salad

Loaded with fresh vegetables, briny olives, and salty feta, this Mediterranean salad bursts with bold, sunny flavors. It’s refreshing, colorful, and perfect alongside grilled chicken or fish.

Check out this recipe

Easy Italian chopped salad on a plate

Italian Chopped Salad

This Italian chopped salad is packed with crisp lettuce, savory meats, cheese, and a zesty dressing. Every bite is full of flavor and texture, just how we like it!

Check out this recipe

Overhead view of Mexican salad in bowl

Mexican Salad

This vibrant Mexican salad features crunchy veggies, beans, and a bold dressing with just the right kick.

Check out this recipe

the best quinoa salad recipe

Quinoa Salad

Protein-rich quinoa anchors this satisfying salad, which is loaded with vegetables and tossed in a flavorful dressing. It’s perfect for meal prep and keeps well for days!

Check out this recipe

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