Salads are more than just a side dish—they can be packed with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and satisfying textures. These 17 salads from around the world bring unique combinations that go beyond the usual greens and dressing. From crisp vegetables to hearty grains and cheeses, each one offers something different. Whether you need a light meal or a flavorful side, these recipes are worth trying.
Korean Kohlrabi Salad
Korean Kohlrabi Salad is a crisp, spicy dish featuring kohlrabi, garlic, and red pepper flakes. It has a bold, slightly sweet heat balanced by vinegar and sesame oil. Ready in about 20 minutes, this salad adds a crunchy, tangy contrast to grilled meats or rice dishes. It’s a great way to experience Korean flavors in a refreshing side.
Get the Recipe: Korean Kohlrabi Salad
Fried Halloumi Salad
Fried Halloumi Salad combines warm, golden halloumi with crisp greens, tomatoes, and nuts. The cheese’s salty bite pairs well with fresh vegetables and a bright dressing. This 25-minute salad is hearty enough for a light meal or a flavorful appetizer. It’s a great way to enjoy the chewy, savory halloumi popular in Middle Eastern cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Fried Halloumi Salad
Mexican Coleslaw Salad
Mexican Coleslaw Salad is a crunchy mix of cabbage, jalapeños, and a tangy lime dressing. The fresh, zesty flavors make it an ideal side for tacos, grilled meats, or seafood. Ready in 15 minutes, it’s simple, vibrant, and slightly spicy. This slaw is a staple at summer cookouts and taco nights.
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Berry Salad With Red Onions, Arugula, Nuts, And Pomegranate Arils
This salad blends sweet berries, peppery arugula, and crunchy nuts for a mix of textures and flavors. Red onions add a mild sharpness, while pomegranate arils provide a juicy burst of sweetness. Ready in 15 minutes, it's fresh, slightly tart, and balanced with a light vinaigrette. It works as a colorful appetizer or a bright, healthy side.
Get the Recipe: Berry Salad With Red Onions, Arugula, Nuts, And Pomegranate Arils
Moroccan Pearl Couscous Salad
Moroccan Pearl Couscous Salad features chewy couscous, fresh herbs, and warm spices. Citrus, nuts, and dried fruit add sweetness, while a light dressing ties everything together. This 30-minute dish is hearty yet refreshing, perfect as a side or a satisfying vegetarian meal. It’s a great way to explore Moroccan flavors in a simple, nutritious salad.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan Pearl Couscous Salad
Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
Roasted Sweet Potato Salad combines caramelized sweet potatoes, fresh greens, and a zesty dressing. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs well with crunchy nuts and tangy vinaigrette. Ready in about 40 minutes, this dish is filling and full of earthy, slightly smoky flavors. It’s a great addition to holiday spreads or hearty weeknight dinners.
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Marinated Beet Salad With Dill
Marinated Beet Salad with Dill brings together tender beets, fresh dill, and a bright vinegar dressing. The earthy beets absorb the marinade, making them tangy and slightly sweet. This 30-minute dish is refreshing and pairs well with grilled meats or sandwiches. It’s a classic in Eastern European cuisine, known for its bold, simple flavors.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Beet Salad With Dill
Kale Apple Salad With Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Kale Apple Salad combines crisp apples, hearty kale, and a creamy poppy seed dressing. The slight bitterness of kale is softened by the sweet apples and nutty dressing. Ready in 20 minutes, this salad is fresh, crunchy, and slightly tangy. It’s a nutritious option for a light meal or a side dish.
Get the Recipe: Kale Apple Salad With Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
Roasted Beet, Apple, And Goat Cheese Salad
Roasted Beet, Apple, and Goat Cheese Salad is a sweet and savory mix of roasted beets, crisp apples, and creamy goat cheese. The flavors balance between earthy, tangy, and slightly sweet, complemented by a simple vinaigrette. This dish takes about 40 minutes, making it great for a more refined meal. It’s a French-inspired salad that works well as an appetizer or a light main.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Beet, Apple, And Goat Cheese Salad
Pickled Beet Cucumber Salad
Pickled Beet Cucumber Salad pairs tangy pickled beets with crisp cucumbers and fresh herbs. The combination is bright, slightly sweet, and refreshing, with a nice crunch. This salad takes just 15 minutes to put together and is great as a side for grilled meats or sandwiches. It’s a staple in Eastern European cuisine, loved for its simplicity and bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Beet Cucumber Salad
Arugula Salad With Endive, Mozzarella, Pecans, And Pomegranate Seeds
Arugula Salad with Endive, Mozzarella, Pecans, and Pomegranate Seeds blends bitter greens with creamy cheese and crunchy nuts. The sweet pomegranate arils balance the peppery arugula, while pecans add texture. Ready in 15 minutes, this salad is light but packed with flavor. It’s a great Italian-inspired dish for a fresh appetizer or a side to pasta.
Get the Recipe: Arugula Salad With Endive, Mozzarella, Pecans, And Pomegranate Seeds
Roasted Bell Pepper Salad
Roasted Bell Pepper Salad highlights the smoky sweetness of roasted peppers paired with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. The soft texture of the peppers contrasts with a light vinaigrette, making it flavorful and refreshing. This dish takes about 30 minutes, but the roasting enhances the natural flavors. It’s a Mediterranean classic that pairs well with grilled meats or fresh bread.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Bell Pepper Salad
Lime, Chili And Ginger-Dressed Broccoli
Lime, Chili, and Ginger-Dressed Broccoli is a bold, zesty dish with steamed broccoli tossed in a spicy, citrusy dressing. The heat from the chili balances with the tangy lime and warming ginger. This 15-minute salad is crisp, flavorful, and slightly spicy. It’s a great way to add an Asian-inspired side to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Lime, Chili And Ginger-Dressed Broccoli
Roasted Delicata Squash Salad
Roasted Delicata Squash Salad features tender squash, crunchy seeds, and a light vinaigrette. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs well with the slight acidity of the dressing. This dish takes about 35 minutes, making it a great fall-inspired salad. It’s a perfect side for holiday meals or cozy dinners.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Delicata Squash Salad
Fennel Salad With Pears, Apples, And Mustard
Fennel Salad with Pears, Apples, and Mustard combines crisp fennel with sweet fruit and a tangy mustard dressing. The anise-like flavor of fennel contrasts with the juicy pears and apples. Ready in 20 minutes, this salad is light, refreshing, and slightly sharp. It’s a French-style dish that works well with fish or poultry.
Get the Recipe: Fennel Salad With Pears, Apples, And Mustard
Asian Cucumber Tomato Salad: Easy And Refreshing
Asian Cucumber Tomato Salad is a simple, refreshing mix of crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes dressed in soy sauce, sesame oil, and vinegar. The flavors are light, slightly tangy, and balanced with a hint of umami. This salad takes only 10 minutes to prepare, making it a quick, flavorful side. It’s a great addition to any Asian-inspired meal.
Get the Recipe: Asian Cucumber Tomato Salad: Easy And Refreshing
Mediterranean White Bean Salad With Feta
Mediterranean White Bean Salad with Feta is a protein-rich dish with creamy white beans, tangy feta, and fresh herbs. The combination of lemon, olive oil, and garlic gives it a bright, savory taste. Ready in 15 minutes, this salad is filling and packed with Mediterranean flavors. It’s perfect as a side or a light vegetarian meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean White Bean Salad With Feta
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