Salad Recipes
Fresh, vibrant, and full of flavour — salads that are anything but boring.
Forget sad, wilted leaves on the side of a plate. The salads in our collection are bold, satisfying meals in their own right. Think crispy halloumi on a bed of roasted vegetables, zingy Asian-style slaws, grain bowls loaded with colour and texture, and fresh summer plates that make the most of seasonal produce. Whether you're after a light lunch or a substantial dinner, these salads deliver on every front.
Latest Salads Recipes
678 recipes in this category
Brussels sprouts winter salad with clementine dressing
This bright winter salad has become my go to when I need something nourishing but quick. Raw brussels sprouts and kale are packed with vitamins and fiber that keep me feeling energized through the cold months, and the best part is there's no cooking required for the greens themselves. The clementine dressing brings such a lovely citrusy sweetness that makes even vegetable skeptics ask for seconds. Pine nuts and pomegranate seeds add a luxurious touch, but honestly, the whole thing comes together in under 40 minutes and costs far less than ordering a salad out. It's my favorite way to make winter vegetables feel exciting again.
Chicken, green bean & sundried tomato salad with chicken fat croutons
This is my go to recipe when I have leftover roast chicken sitting in the fridge. It comes together in just 35 minutes start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressive lunch. The magic happens with those crispy chicken fat croutons, which transform humble bread into something absolutely irresistible. Green beans are wonderfully nutritious, packed with vitamins and fibre while being super low in calories. The combination of sundried tomatoes, fresh vine tomatoes, and a punchy mustard vinaigrette creates layers of flavour that make this salad feel restaurant quality, yet it requires minimal effort and uses ingredients you likely already have at home.
Buffalo chicken & blue cheese slaw
This buffalo chicken and blue cheese slaw is my go to when I want something that feels fancy but comes together in just over an hour. The spicy, tangy sauce on the chicken pairs beautifully with the cool, creamy slaw, and the whole thing tastes like you spent way more time on it than you actually did. I love that the cabbage in the slaw is packed with vitamin C and fiber, so you're getting some real nutrition alongside all that delicious indulgence. Best part? Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, so it won't break the bank.
Puy lentil, spiced roast carrot & feta salad
This is my go to salad when I want something that feels special but doesn't demand hours in the kitchen. The beauty of it is that the lentils come pre cooked, so you're really just roasting some spiced carrots and throwing everything together. Puy lentils are wonderful because they hold their shape beautifully and pack so much protein and fibre, making this genuinely filling as a main course. The warm roasted carrots with cumin seeds against the cool, creamy feta creates this perfect contrast that keeps you coming back for another forkful. Ready in under 45 minutes from start to finish.
Slow-cooker gochujang short ribs with apple slaw
This slow cooker recipe has become my go to for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The gochujang brings this incredible spiced heat that transforms humble short ribs into something restaurant worthy, while the apple slaw adds a bright, cooling contrast that keeps things balanced. What I love most is that you just throw everything in the pot and let it do the work for five hours, which means you're free to do literally anything else. Gochujang is packed with beneficial probiotics from fermentation, making it genuinely good for your gut alongside being absolutely delicious. Once you taste how tender the meat becomes and how the sauce clings to every bite, you'll find yourself making this again and again.
Quinoa salad with shredded greens & raisins
This is one of my go to salads when I need something nutritious but don't have much time. The whole thing comes together in about half an hour, and honestly most of that is just cooking the quinoa. I love using cavolo nero because it's so hearty and packed with calcium, which is great for keeping your bones strong. The combination of chewy raisins, creamy avocado, and tangy feta creates this perfect balance of flavors and textures, and the balsamic vinegar brings everything together beautifully. It's become a weeknight favorite at my house because it's simple, filling, and keeps well in the fridge.
Shake-it-up chopped salad
This is my go to salad when I want something that actually feels like a meal. It's basically a deconstructed Italian antipasto that comes together in just 15 minutes of prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lunch prep. The beauty of this salad is that you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, so it's incredibly forgiving on the budget. I love that the creamy yogurt and olive oil dressing gives you all those healthy fats that keep you satisfied, plus the fresh lemon juice brightens everything up. Just toss it all together in a jar with the dressing, give it a good shake, and you've got a protein packed lunch that tastes anything but boring.
Pearl couscous salad with hot smoked trout & buttermilk dressing
This is one of my go to weeknight dinners when I want something that feels fancy but comes together in just twenty minutes. Pearl couscous has this wonderful nutty texture that holds up beautifully to fresh vegetables and flaky fish, and the best part is it's incredibly budget friendly. I love how the hot smoked trout brings such incredible flavor without any fussy cooking, while the buttermilk dressing keeps everything light and creamy. The cucumber and radishes add a wonderful crunch and freshness, plus all those raw vegetables mean you're getting maximum nutrients in every bite. It's the kind of dish that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen but tastes even better than it looks.
Squash & barley salad with balsamic vinaigrette
This is one of my favorite salads to make when I want something that feels both hearty and fresh. Roasted butternut squash paired with chewy pearl barley creates a satisfying base that keeps you full, and barley is packed with fiber that supports digestion and heart health. What I love most is how quick it comes together in just 40 minutes total, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully, while the pumpkin seeds and fresh basil add wonderful texture and brightness. It's comforting enough for lunch or dinner, and honestly, it costs very little to throw together.
Sharing bavette with blue cheese, beef dripping wedges & ranch salad
This is one of my favorite dishes to make when friends are coming over because everything comes together beautifully on a single plate. Two gorgeous bavette steaks share the spotlight with crispy beef dripping wedges and the freshest ranch salad, all topped with a tangy blue cheese butter that melts into every bite. What I love most is that it feels impressive but comes together in under two hours, and you're really just managing one pan at a time. Stilton cheese is packed with calcium and probiotics that support bone health and digestion, so you're getting something nourishing alongside pure indulgence. The best part? It's the kind of meal where you can prep everything ahead, then finish it all at once when your guests arrive.
Orzo, feta & prawn pasta salad
This is one of my go to recipes when I want something fresh and impressive but don't have much time. The beauty of an orzo pasta salad is that everything comes together in just twenty minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you're hosting last minute. Prawns are packed with protein and selenium, which supports your immune system, so you're getting something genuinely nutritious alongside all those bright Mediterranean flavours. The combination of feta, sundried tomatoes, and fresh dill creates this wonderfully tangy and herbaceous dish that tastes like you've spent hours on it, but really it's remarkably simple. It's also incredibly forgiving and you can easily swap ingredients based on what's in your kitchen.
Peach & raspberry fruit salad with mascarpone
This is one of my favorite summer desserts because it's incredibly quick to throw together yet feels totally special. Ripe peaches and raspberries are naturally sweet, so you don't need much sugar, and the mascarpone cream makes everything feel luxurious without any fussy techniques. I love that raspberries are packed with antioxidants and fiber, making this feel like a genuinely nourishing treat. The whole thing comes together in under 40 minutes from start to table, and honestly, most of that is just letting the peaches chill. It's the kind of recipe that impresses everyone but takes hardly any effort at all.
The 4-Ingredient French Carrot Salad I Can't Stop Eating
This humble French carrot salad has completely taken over my kitchen, and I'm not exaggerating when I say I make it at least twice a week. What makes it so irresistible is how ridiculously simple it is to throw together, yet it tastes like something you'd order at a fancy bistro. Fresh carrots are nutritional powerhouses packed with beta carotene for healthy eyes and skin, and when you dress them in this bright lemon and Dijon vinaigrette, they become absolutely addictive. The whole thing comes together in under 40 minutes from start to finish, which means you can have a restaurant quality side dish on your table faster than you'd expect. Trust me, once you make this, you'll understand why I keep coming back to it.
My 4-Ingredient Egg Salad Has a Trick—There’s No Peeling Required
You know that tedious task of peeling hard boiled eggs? I finally ditched it, and this egg salad changed everything. By scrambling the eggs instead, you skip that annoying step entirely while still getting all those protein packed benefits. With just four simple ingredients plus seasonings, this comes together in under 25 minutes from start to finish. It's honestly become my go to lunch because it's so quick, budget friendly, and tastes absolutely delicious. Once you try it this way, you'll never want to peel another egg again.
The Crunchy 10-Minute Salad My Sicilian Grandmother Serves With Every Meal
My Sicilian grandmother has served this salad at every meal for as long as I can remember, and I finally understand why. It comes together in just ten minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fresh and satisfying. The chickpeas provide a wonderful protein boost and are packed with fiber to keep you full, while the crisp romaine, cucumber, and tomato give you that satisfying crunch she loves. What I appreciate most is how inexpensive it is to make, especially when you use canned chickpeas. There's nothing fancy here, just quality ingredients, a simple vinaigrette, and the kind of straightforward preparation that has sustained her family for generations. You'll find yourself returning to this one again and again.
Healthy Tuna & Pasta Salad
This is my go to weeknight dinner when I want something wholesome but don't have much time. Fresh tuna paired with tender pasta creates a light, protein packed meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. I love using the delicate Barilla piccolini because it cooks so quickly, and the vibrant vegetables add wonderful crunch and nutrition. Tuna is loaded with omega 3 fatty acids that are fantastic for your heart and brain, plus it's an affordable way to get lean protein on the table fast. This salad is honestly foolproof and tastes even better the next day.
Tabbouli / Tabouli / Tabbouleh Salad (Parsley Salad)
This vibrant Lebanese salad has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and I love sharing it because it's so incredibly simple to make. Fresh parsley is the star here, packed with vitamin K and antioxidants that are wonderful for your health, and the whole dish comes together in just an hour. What I appreciate most is how budget friendly it is since parsley and bulgur are inexpensive pantry basics, yet it feels like something special when you serve it to guests. The bright citrus and herbaceous flavors make it perfect for warm weather entertaining, and honestly, once you taste how fresh and light it is, you'll find yourself making it again and again.
Mixed grain salad with miso, ginger & maple dressing
This is one of my go to meals when I want something nutritious but don't have much time. I love how the wholesome grains and crispy tofu come together with this punchy miso dressing that takes just minutes to whip up. Ginger is fantastic for digestion, and the combination of textures from the seeds and fried onions makes every bite interesting. What I really appreciate is that most of these ingredients are pantry staples, so it's genuinely budget friendly while still feeling like something special. In under half an hour from start to finish, you've got a complete, satisfying meal that tastes far better than the effort required.
Chargrilled pepper salad with spiced chicken
This chargrilled pepper salad with spiced chicken is one of my go to weeknight dinners when I want something that tastes impressive but doesn't demand hours in the kitchen. The whole thing comes together in about 35 minutes, which means you can have it on the table on even the busiest evenings. I love how the warm spiced chicken sits on top of cool, smoky charred peppers and fresh herbs, creating this wonderful contrast of temperatures and flavors. The peppers are packed with vitamin C, which is brilliant for your immune system, and the lean chicken keeps things light and protein rich. Best of all, it's made from simple ingredients you probably already have at home, so there's no need for an elaborate shopping trip.
Spicy prawn noodles with salad onions & chives
This spicy prawn noodle dish has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just ten minutes flat. The lentil protein noodles are a game changer, packed with fiber and plant based protein that keeps you satisfied way longer than regular pasta. I love how the chiu chow chilli oil brings real heat and depth without being overwhelming, while the fresh salad onions and chives add this lovely bright crunch at the end. You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already, which means zero stress and maximum flavor on even the busiest evenings.
Charred courgettes & manouri
This is one of my go to weeknight dinners because it comes together in under twenty minutes. The charred courgettes get this incredible smoky sweetness from the barbecue sauce, and then you top them with creamy manouri cheese that just melts into all those gorgeous char marks. Courgettes are packed with vitamins and fiber while being super low in calories, so you can feel good about loading your plate. The whole thing is so simple and honestly costs very little to make. It's become my favorite way to use up courgettes from the market.
Creamy smoked bacon, potato & salad onion frittata
This creamy smoked bacon, potato and salad onion frittata has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just 25 minutes from start to table. It's wonderfully simple to make and won't break the bank, especially when you use quality essentials like the smoky bacon and fresh salad onions. The best part is that eggs are packed with choline, which supports brain health and memory, so you're getting nutrition along with comfort food vibes. I love how forgiving this dish is too; you just sauté everything together, pour the egg mixture over, and let the oven do the heavy lifting while you relax with a cup of tea.
Tomato salad with chilli oil, Thai basil & burrata
This is one of my favorite summer dishes to throw together when tomatoes are at their peak. The combination of creamy burrata with juicy tomatoes and a punchy chilli oil dressing feels like a restaurant quality meal, but honestly, it comes together in under 40 minutes with minimal effort. The beauty of this salad is that it's genuinely good for you too, especially with the lycopene in the tomatoes which is brilliant for heart health. Plus, if you've got fresh Thai basil on hand, you're basically done. It's elegant enough for guests but simple enough for a solo lunch.
Sticky pomegranate lamb kebabs with pitta salad
These sticky pomegranate lamb kebabs are one of my go to weeknight dinners because they come together in just thirty minutes from start to finish. The pomegranate molasses creates this gorgeous sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the meat, while the fresh pitta salad keeps everything light and balanced. Pomegranate is packed with antioxidants that are brilliant for your heart health, and I love how the tart seeds add such vibrant flavor without any extra effort. It's the kind of meal that feels fancy enough for guests but simple enough that you won't stress about timing in the kitchen.
Chargrilled vegetable asparagus salad
This chargrilled vegetable asparagus salad is my go to when I want something nutritious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this dish is how quickly it comes together, ready in just fifteen minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I love using fresh asparagus because it's packed with folate and fiber, supporting digestion and overall wellness. The combination of protein rich eggs, wholesome grains, and vibrant chargrilled vegetables creates a complete meal that feels indulgent but is honestly quite simple to prepare. With just a handful of quality ingredients including peppery Dijon mustard and fragrant dill, you get restaurant worthy results at home.
Griddled chicken burgers with coleslaw
These griddled chicken burgers are my go to when I want something satisfying but quick. The beauty of this recipe is that it comes together in just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. I love using chicken breast because it's lean and packed with protein to keep you feeling full. The crispy exterior from the griddle paired with creamy coleslaw creates the most delicious contrast, and honestly, it tastes far better than any takeaway burger. Topped with tangy mustard and fresh lettuce on a soft brioche bun, this is comfort food that doesn't require hours in the kitchen.
Quick veg frittata with feta, olives & salad
This is my go to midweek dinner when I need something fast but still feel like I've made a proper meal. The beauty of a frittata is that it comes together in minutes, and by using quality ready prepared ingredients like chargrilled veg and Greek salad, you've got dinner on the table in under 15 minutes. Eggs are packed with protein and choline which is brilliant for brain health, plus the feta and olives add that salty, satisfying flavour that makes everyone at the table happy. It's simple, it's nutritious, and honestly it tastes far more impressive than the minimal effort required.
Spiced-rubbed chicken with lime slaw
This is one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it comes together in under an hour and tastes absolutely delicious. The spice rub is smoky and warm, coating tender chicken drumsticks that become golden and crispy in the oven. What I love most is how simple it is to throw together, plus the fresh lime slaw cuts through the richness beautifully. Coriander is fantastic for digestion, so you're getting something genuinely good for you alongside pure comfort food. Best of all, drumsticks are budget friendly and feed a crowd, making this the kind of meal I'm always happy to serve to friends and family on a busy evening.
Jersey Royals and bresaola salad with horseradish mayo
This is one of my favorite quick lunches when I want something that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen. Jersey Royals are at their absolute best simply boiled and dressed while still warm, and paired with paper thin bresaola and a zingy horseradish mayo, they create something restaurant worthy in just 25 minutes. The watercress and peppery rocket add brilliant greens that are packed with vitamins and minerals, while the creamed horseradish gives you that wonderful sharp kick without any fuss. It's the kind of salad that looks impressive but honestly requires minimal effort and won't break the bank either.
Pomegranate-glazed lamb with date, kale & bulgur salad
This is one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it comes together in just twenty minutes flat. The pomegranate molasses creates this gorgeous sticky glaze on tender lamb steaks while the bulgur salad brings everything into balance with fresh dates, kale, and pomegranate seeds. What I love most is that pomegranate is packed with antioxidants, so you're getting something genuinely nourishing alongside all those incredible flavors. The beauty of this dish is how simple it actually is to pull off, yet it feels special enough for company. Give it a try and I promise you'll be making it again and again.
Cucumber & pomegranate salad with cumin and lime
This is one of my favorite go to salads when I want something fresh and vibrant without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of it is that it comes together in just ten minutes of prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu entertaining. Cucumbers are incredibly hydrating and packed with nutrients, so you're getting something truly nourishing with every bite. The combination of toasted cumin seeds, bright lime juice, and pomegranate creates this wonderful balance of warm spice and citrusy sweetness that keeps everyone coming back for more. It's simple, it's elegant, and honestly, it's become my go to dish whenever I need to impress without the fuss.
Crispy pork & grapefruit salad
This crispy pork and grapefruit salad has become one of my go to weeknight dinners because it comes together in just 25 minutes from start to finish. The beauty of using pork mince is that it cooks so quickly while still getting wonderfully crispy and flavourful. Grapefruit brings a gorgeous tartness that cuts through the richness of the pork, and it's packed with vitamin C to boot. The rice noodles add a satisfying chew, and everything comes together with a simple honey soy dressing that's both tangy and slightly sweet. It's the kind of dish that feels a bit fancy but honestly costs very little to make.
Yogurt-marinated chicken with pomegranate bread salad
This is one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it comes together in just 35 minutes, yet tastes like something you'd order at a fancy restaurant. The yogurt marinade keeps the chicken incredibly tender and juicy while infusing it with bright lemon and garlic flavors. I love how the pomegranate seeds burst with sweetness against the savory crostini and crisp vegetables, and Greek yogurt is packed with protein and probiotics that are wonderful for your gut health. It's simple enough for a busy Tuesday but elegant enough to serve when friends come over.
Tomato, crispy tofu & lentil salad with spice vinaigrette
This vibrant salad has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just thirty minutes and honestly tastes even better than restaurant versions. The combination of crispy pan fried tofu, protein packed lentils, and fresh tomatoes creates something truly satisfying, and I love how the warm spice vinaigrette with cumin and nigella seeds brings everything to life. Lentils are nutritional powerhouses too, loaded with fiber and iron to keep you feeling energized and full. Best of all, these are humble ingredients you probably already have on hand, making this an economical choice that never feels like you're cutting corners.
Potato salad with chorizo & duck egg
This is one of my favorite quick weeknight dinners that feels way more special than it actually is. I've combined smoky chorizo with creamy duck eggs and tender new potatoes for something that's both satisfying and ready in under 40 minutes. The best part? It's incredibly simple and comes together with minimal fuss. Duck eggs bring extra richness and are packed with choline, which is great for brain health, while the chorizo adds that wonderful depth of flavor that makes everything taste restaurant quality. The whole thing costs very little to make and honestly tastes even better the next day if you have leftovers.
Spiced couscous, chickpea & vegetable salad with halloumi
This is one of my go to weeknight dinners when I want something satisfying but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen. The whole thing comes together in just 25 minutes, which means you can have a proper meal on the table faster than ordering takeaway. I love how the warm spiced couscous mingles with roasted vegetables and creamy halloumi, while the fresh parsley adds a bright finish. Chickpeas are packed with protein and fiber, so you'll stay full long after dinner, and that's what makes this salad feel like a proper nourishing meal rather than just a side dish. It's simple, it's delicious, and it genuinely tastes like you've made more effort than you actually have.
Why cook with Ella's Pantry?
Allergy Filters
Set your allergies once and filter every recipe to see only what's safe for you.
Built-in Timers
Start timers right from the recipe page — never overcook or underbake again.
Hints & Tips
Chef's tips on every recipe share the tricks that make each dish special.
Nutritional Info
Calories, protein, carbs, fat, fibre, and sugar — for every recipe.
My Fridge
Photograph your fridge and find recipes you can make with what you have.
Ratings & Reviews
Rate recipes and read what others think to find the very best dishes.
Allergy-friendly freshness
Salads seem safe, but dressings often contain hidden allergens — egg in mayonnaise, nuts in pesto, dairy in creamy dressings. Every salad on Ella's Pantry comes with complete allergy labelling. Set up your allergy profile and the 'Recipes for Me' filter will show you only salads that are genuinely safe. You'll discover dressings and toppings that are just as delicious without the ingredients you need to avoid.
Assembly made simple
A great salad is all about the components coming together at the right moment. Our step-by-step instructions break down the prep clearly — what to roast, what to dress in advance, and what to add at the last minute for crunch. Built-in timers help with any roasting or toasting, and our hints and tips cover everything from making the perfect vinaigrette to keeping leaves crisp.
Light, balanced, and trackable
Salads are naturally one of the healthiest options on the menu, and our nutritional breakdowns let you see exactly what's in each serving. Whether you're eating lighter, tracking macros, or simply want more vegetables in your diet, you can browse by cook time to find quick options or search by ingredient to build around what you already have. Rate your favourites and save them to your profile for easy access — your perfect salad is always just a tap away.
Ready to start cooking?
Create a free account to save your allergies, bookmark favourites, rate recipes, and access personalised recommendations.
Ella x