It can be hard to find a completely plant-based salad recipe that doesn’t include cheese or mayo.
But don’t worry! We’re here to provide ideas for genuinely tasty and varied vegan salads that range from light and crunchy to hearty and oh-so-satisfying.
Whether you want a quick lunch, a side for dinner, or a make-ahead option that can feed a crowd, we’ve got your back.
45 Vegan Salad Recipes for Meals, Potlucks, Picnics, and More!
1. Korean Cucumber Salad
Crisp cucumber slices are elevated with a spicy kick in this Korean cucumber salad (oi muchim), where gochugaru, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame oil tantalize the palate.
Quick to prepare, it's an ideal side dish for any meal needing a burst of cool, spicy excitement.
2. Kisir
The Turkish kisir is a hearty salad that's a symphony of flavors, featuring the nutty taste of bulgur wheat, the sharpness of scallions and onions, the tang and kick of tomato and pepper pastes, and the depth of pomegranate molasses.
It's a vegan delight, packed with seasonings and herbs that ensure it’s not only filling but flavorful too.
3. Avocado Tomato Salad
Savor the simplicity and freshness of this avocado tomato salad, where creamy avocados and juicy tomatoes come together for a heart-healthy vegan treat.
Lightly dressed in olive oil and a squeeze of lime, this is a great choice for an easy, nourishing lunch on a busy day.
4. Peach Quinoa Salad
Now you can enjoy the flavors of summer all year round with this peach quinoa salad!
With a harmonious blend of fluffy, nutty quinoa, succulent peaches, crunchy corn, rich avocado, and fresh greens, it’s amazingly refreshing.
And the zesty bite of candied jalapeños adds an unexpected twist, while the homemade dressing enhances the complexity of the flavor profile!
5. Lemon Orzo Salad
Brighten up your next meal by trying this lemon orzo salad.
Here, al dente orzo soaks up the vibrant dressing, a lively concoction of lemon juice, zest, and a hint of maple syrup, while arugula adds a fresh crunch.
With the optional crumble of vegan feta, it’s a breeze to whip up in less than 15 minutes.
6. Tepary Bean and Black-Eyed Pea Salad
This salad is a celebration of the rich tapestry of Native American cuisine, featuring the hearty texture of tepary beans, a staple among the Tohono O'odham and Akimel O'odham peoples.
Paired with black-eyed peas, cherry tomatoes, corn, and bell pepper and tossed in a light, well-seasoned dressing, this is a vibrant, fiber-rich dish.
7. Roasted Beet and Kale Salad
With a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory notes, this salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the hearty texture of sautéed leeks and kale.
Top it with vegan feta and crunchy pumpkin seeds, and you’ll have a deliciously hearty salad that’s perfect for any occasion.
8. Peach and Watercress Salad With Chickpeas
The peppery bite of watercress meets the luscious sweetness of donut peaches in this recipe.
Crunchy baby cucumbers and sprouted chickpeas add a delightful texture, all brought together with a zingy lemon-sumac dressing.
Finally, a dash of fresh basil enhances the peaches’ natural flavor. But if you don’t have basil, parsley or dill can serve as equally aromatic substitutes.
9. Mango Cucumber Salad
In this salad, the tropical sweetness of mangoes contrasts beautifully with the cool crunch of cucumber.
This simple yet exciting vegan salad is enlivened with a zingy mint-infused dressing, offering an escape to a culinary paradise where the flavors are bright and the essence of summer lingers with every bite.
10. Roasted Vegetable and Spiced Chickpea Salad
Warm, roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cauliflower florets mingle with perfectly spiced chickpeas in this roasted vegetable salad, where warmth and comfort are served with a generous helping of healthful indulgence.
Each bite is enveloped by a rich, vibrant lemon-tahini dressing that adds a luxurious texture and depth of flavor.
11. Apple Salad
The fusion of crisp greens and sweet, crunchy apples in this vegan recipe is nothing short of delightful!
And the finishing touches truly make it sing, including toppings like crunchy quinoa, cranberries, and nuts and a salad dressing with maple syrup, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar.
12. Broccoli Cranberry Salad With Citrus Dressing
For a dish that's both vibrant and satisfying, this broccoli cranberry salad is a standout.
Its medley of textures with fresh broccoli florets, juicy mandarin orange slices, toasted nuts, and chewy dried cranberries shine with the zingy ginger-orange dressing — perfect for adding a pop of color and a burst of flavor to any meal.
13. Arugula Quinoa Salad With Butternut Squash
From the soft, nutty quinoa to the roasted, caramelized butternut squash and tender Brussels sprouts, this salad has all the flavors of a bountiful fall harvest!
Tart dried cranberries and crunchy pumpkin seeds also sprinkle in a playful contrast, while a creamy green goddess dressing — rich with herbs and cashews — drapes the dish in velvety decadence, making it great for a cozy or festive meal.
14. Chinese Seaweed Salad
Craving seafood after adopting a vegan lifestyle? This recipe gives you a way to dive into the flavors of the sea without making compromises on your diet!
The delicate strands of seaweed here offer umami flavors with a slippery texture, and they’re complemented by a blend of Chinese cuisine-inspired seasoning. This gives you a unique salad experience that intrigues the palate!
15. Roasted Potato Salad
Put a new spin on the traditional potato salad with this variation! It features potatoes that are roasted until they're beautifully golden and tender.
They're then mixed with a vegan mayo-and-Dijon dressing, which has a creaminess that contrasts with the warm potatoes, creating a dish that's both comforting and invigorating!
16. Tabbouleh Salad
By substituting traditional bulgur with hemp seeds, you can enjoy the famous tabbouleh salad in a low-carb, gluten-free form!
Of course, it still includes all the classics you expect from this Middle Eastern classic, such as ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and green onions punctuated by the freshness of chopped parsley and mint.
17. Lemon Basil Orzo Salad
Tender orzo pasta is combined with crisp veggies like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and bell peppers in this dish!
The fresh and aromatic lemon-and-basil dressing ties them all together, giving you a flavor-packed salad that's perfect for a light lunch or a charming dish at any gathering.
18. Strawberry Apple Cider Salad
A delightful mélange of mixed greens, fresh strawberries, and crisp green apples make this salad oh-so-refreshing!
And the homemade apple-and-tahini dressing elevates the overall flavor profile, along with candied pecans and tofu feta that provide a subtle but striking texture counterpoint.
19. Bavarian Potato Salad
With this Bavarian potato salad, you can treat yourself to a taste of Southern German cuisine!
To make it, start by sautéing your onions and boiling your potatoes until tender. Mix them with cucumber afterward, and drench the ingredients in a homemade vinaigrette featuring broth, vinegar, mustard, and a hint of apple juice.
Finish by stirring in oil for a glossy touch and garnish with fresh herbs!
20. Sprouted Mung Bean Salad (Green Gram Sprouts Salad)
Crunchy, fresh, and lively, this salad brims with the health benefits and the earthy bite of mung beans.
It’s paired with carrots, corn, pomegranate, and green chilies for an array of gorgeous colors and a combination of fresh flavors — a feast for the eyes and the palate!
21. Tomato Pomegranate Salad With Black Lime Onions
Here’s a vibrant salad that showcases the lush sweetness of tomatoes, the herbaceous taste of basil, and the jewel-like burst of pomegranate seeds.
Black lime-infused onions add an unexpected twist, along with a pomegranate dressing boasting a complex, tangy flavor that elevates the salad to new heights of culinary delight and gives it a modern gourmet flair.
22. Mango Pico de Gallo
Enjoy a sweet and zesty side salad with this incredible mango pico de gallo!
A popular take on the classic Mexican salsa, it brings together succulent mangoes with the classic components of tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, lime juice, and a sprinkle of cilantro. This creates a salsa-salad hybrid that promises to be the star of any table!
23. Avocado Apple Pear Salad
Textures and tastes collide in this avocado apple pear salad, where the creamy richness of avocado pairs effortlessly with the crispness of apples and the subtle sweetness of pears.
Complemented by lettuce, white onions, and raw pumpkin seeds, this can accompany any meal or be enjoyed on its own.
24. Herbed Potato Salad
Rustic and comforting, this potato salad gives you all the familiar flavors of the classic recipe, including fork-tender potatoes and a lively dressing made with Dijon mustard, vegan mayo, preserved lemons, and apple cider vinegar.
But what makes it unique is its infusion of garden-fresh herbs, which incorporate a wonderfully fresh taste to the dish.
25. Spinach Arugula Salad With Candied Pecans and Apples
Arugula and baby spinach form a lush green foundation for this salad, complemented by the sharp taste of red onion and sweetened by apples and candied pecans.
Crumbly vegan feta cheese adds a layer of indulgence, while the creamy but subtle poppy seed dressing enhances without overpowering.
26. Baby Potato Asparagus Salad Without Mayo
Bringing together tender baby potatoes and steamed asparagus, this salad is a harmonious blend of satisfying veggies!
A drizzle of a zesty lemon-infused dressing and a sprinkle of fresh herbs and aromatics offer a touch of vibrance that gives life to each bite.
27. Vegan Thai Quinoa Chopped Salad With Tahini Dressing
If you’re a fan of Asian cuisine, this Thai cuisine-inspired recipe will tickle your taste buds!
A base of hearty quinoa makes this chopped salad nutty and nutritious, playing host to a rainbow of fruits and veggies and a creamy tahini dressing. Plus, you can mix up the vegetables here to customize the dish to your preferences!
28. Kale Quinoa Salad
Having a bowl of this salad for lunch will fill you right up for a whole day!
It’s a powerhouse of plant-based protein and fiber with quinoa, tomatoes, and kale, featuring dried cranberries and sliced almonds for a tart, crunchy surprise and a tangy dressing to round out the flavors.
29. Wakame Seaweed Salad
This salad brings a taste of the ocean to your everyday meals with the unique taste and texture of wakame.
Also, simple ingredients like soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar bring out its flavor without dulling its shine. You can whip up this salad for a quick side to sushi or salmon!
30. Roasted Cauliflower Salad With Tahini Dressing
Roasted cauliflower takes center stage in this salad, with a mix of spices and seasonings like za'atar, cumin, and paprika that deliver a tempting depth of flavor.
Its smoky, nutty flavor is balanced out by fresh greens, pomegranate, avocado, chickpeas, and a creamy tahini dressing, proving that salads can be more than just a mix of leaves.
31. Crunchy Fuji Apple Salad With 321 Balsamic Dressing
Indulge in the delightful crunch of this salad, which highlights the freshness of crisp Fuji apples and the subtle sweetness of dried cranberries. Vegan feta cheese and slivers of red onion also add creamy contrast and a sharp bite to the ensemble.
Bringing them all together is the 321 balsamic dressing, a zesty concoction of balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a kiss of maple or date syrup that’s whisked to perfection.
32. Spinach Salad With Dairy-Free Poppy Seed Dressing
Delicate spinach leaves create a bed for the vibrant elements in this salad, including raspberries, avocado, and strawberries.
Drizzled with a homemade poppy seed dressing, this recipe is perfect for fruit lovers who love salads on the sweeter side!
33. French Carrot Salad (Carottes Râpées)
Try this French carrot salad to discover the charm of French cuisine with only a handful of ingredients!
It boasts a sweet and bright duo of grated carrots and a traditional vinaigrette. Chopped parsley sprinkled atop adds a burst of color and a herby freshness, making it a great side that's super easy to make.
34. Bell Pepper Salad
You’ll love how the robust flavors of bell peppers come through in every forkful of this salad, each slice glistening with a zesty dressing.
Carrots, red onions, and mint leaves offer a contrast to the bell pepper’s sweetness and bring a flavorful crunch to your dining experience.
35. Cucumber and Bell Pepper Salad
Whether paired with a hearty stew or a light vegan stir-fry, this Asian cucumber and bell pepper salad can liven up any meal!
Shredded cucumbers and bell peppers are paired with chopped coriander and bathed in a delicious dressing made with soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and lemon juice — the perfect choice to offset rich flavors.
36. Baked Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Rice Salad
For lunch with a crunch, make this tasty salad! It’s a creative twist on traditional salads, featuring perfectly baked Brussels sprouts and jasmine rice that offer cozy warmth on chilly winter evenings.
The combo is seasoned generously, complemented with a selection of nuts and veggies, and tossed with a unique dressing that adds dynamic depth to the dish.
37. Citrus Salad With Fennel and Orange
Another winter salad, this dish has a medley of bright flavors and crisp textures.
Juicy orange slices contrast with the subtle licorice notes of thinly sliced fennel, the subtle sharpness of shallots, and the salty taste of olives, all brought together with a tangy and invigorating champagne vinaigrette dressing.
38. Vegan Apple Broccoli Salad
Sweet and savory meld together perfectly in this vegan salad recipe, which brings the crispness of fresh apples and the hearty crunch of broccoli to the forefront with a dressing of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and garlic.
To complement them, sunflower seeds, raisins, and onions are added to the mix for a striking interplay of textures. With this, you can have a nutritious dish that doesn't compromise on flavor!
39. Pesto Orzo Salad With Chickpeas
Savor the Mediterranean flavors of this pesto orzo salad that's comforting in its heartiness.
Tender yet firm, the orzo here pairs beautifully with salad classics like onions, cucumbers, tomatoes, and chickpeas. Everything is coated in a flavorful pesto sauce for a bright and herbaceous kick!
40. Mixed Berry Arugula Salad
Yes, you can mix berries and greens to create a sweet and vibrant salad like this one!
The juicy berries here provide a burst of sweetness, while the arugula adds a dash of sharpness. Topped with crunch almonds, this is a superb option for a lovely snack or a vibrant appetizer.
41. French Carrot Salad
Looking to add some depth to your favorite French carrot salad? Go for a zesty lemon Dijon dressing with a slight sweetness from vegan honey.
This simple twist highlights the carrots' natural flavor and gives you a crisp, colorful side that's both healthful and effortlessly elegant.
42. Za’atar and Mint Butter Bean Salad
The hearty texture of butter beans is amped up by green bell peppers in this recipe, and both ingredients are tossed in a lemon, olive oil, and za’atar dressing and garnished with cool mint.
You can make this salad in just 10 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a filling lunch or a flavorful dinner in a flash.
43. Vegan Caesar Salad
Reinvent the timeless Caesar salad with this recipe! It boasts crisp romaine lettuce with a smooth, lusciously creamy plant-based Caesar dressing.
Homemade golden croutons and a dusting of vegan parmesan cap off the salad and make it an amazing indulgence for any occasion.
44. Grilled Corn Avocado Salad With Lime Vinaigrette
This summery delight boasts the smoky sweetness of grilled corn and the creamy richness of avocado.
Other veggies like cherry tomatoes, English cucumber, and jicama elevate the dish’s texture, while the zingy lime vinaigrette makes it perfect to serve as a bright palate-cleansing side for vegan tacos, rice dishes, and any other heavy meal.
45. Mediterranean Bean Salad
A salad that's as colorful as it is healthy, this dish has a duo of green beans and pinto beans with crisp vegetables and an invigorating dressing.
It’s a fiber-rich salad option that's satisfying and full of vibrant Mediterranean flair.
Clean Eating Has Never Been More Delicious With These Vegan Salad Recipes!
Did these ideas inspire you to get creative with different plant-based ingredients and play with dressings to create a delicious vegan salad?
We’re glad! The next time you're in a pinch, you can make one of the recipes featured above and enjoy a healthy meal that keeps your taste buds happy and your body nourished.
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