13 Quick and Simple Salads Perfect for Any Day of the Week

Salads can be a quick and easy option for any meal, and they don’t have to be complicated to be satisfying. These recipes are perfect for busy days when you need something simple but still want a variety of fresh ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a light side or a filling main dish, these salads offer flexibility for any day of the week. With minimal prep time, they make it easy to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen.

Overhead shot of shrimp skewers and veggie skewers next to a bowl of dressed grains. — Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Rubbed Kale Salad with Parmesan

This hearty kale salad features tender leaves massaged with olive oil and lemon juice, then topped with shaved Parmesan. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it an easy addition to any meal. The kale’s slight bitterness is balanced by the richness of Parmesan, resulting in a well-rounded taste. It’s a simple salad that packs plenty of flavor without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Rubbed Kale Salad with Parmesan

Summer Orzo Salad

Summer orzo pasta salad in a while serving bowl on a whitewashed background next to a bowl of green beans. — Summer Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This orzo salad combines cucumbers, tomatoes, and orzo pasta for a fresh, light dish that’s ready in 20 minutes. The veggies add a crisp texture, while the orzo brings a satisfying bite. Dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, it’s refreshing and perfect for summer. Enjoy this salad as a side or light meal any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Summer Orzo Salad

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

An overhead shot of a wooden serving bowl filled with salad next to cornbread on a cutting board. — Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled chicken mixed with a tangy Carolina BBQ sauce is the star of this 15-minute salad, with a base of crunchy cabbage and mixed greens. The smoky, sweet flavors of the BBQ sauce make it stand out. Add in corn and tomatoes for extra texture and freshness. It’s a flavorful salad that works well for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

Roasted delicata squash salad

A brown plate with roasted acorn squash slices, topped with chopped green onions, creates a quick and simple dish reminiscent of fresh salads. — Roasted delicata squash salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Sweet roasted delicata squash pairs with peppery arugula in this fall-inspired salad, ready in about 30 minutes. The squash is caramelized and tender, contrasting nicely with the crisp greens. Add in a drizzle of balsamic for a touch of acidity. It’s a great way to bring seasonal flavors to your table.
Get the Recipe: Roasted delicata squash salad

Roasted sweet potato salad

A quick plate of roasted sweet potatoes with feta, herbs, and red onions, garnished with cilantro, perfect for lovers of simple salads. — Roasted sweet potato salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Roasted sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness to this hearty salad, complemented by creamy avocado and crunchy seeds. It takes around 35 minutes to prepare, making it a satisfying option for any day. The textures balance beautifully, with the soft potatoes and creamy avocado against the crisp greens. It’s a comforting and filling choice for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Roasted sweet potato salad

Roasted bell pepper salad

Two plates with roasted peppers, a quick simple salad topped with almonds and herbs. A fork rests on the smaller plate, while a serving spoon adorns the larger one. — Roasted bell pepper salad. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Roasted bell peppers, olives, and herbs come together in this 25-minute salad, creating a bright and flavorful dish. The peppers’ natural sweetness shines through, balanced by the salty olives. A simple vinaigrette ties everything together for a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired flavor. This salad is a colorful and delicious addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted bell pepper salad

Citrus Asparagus Couscous

This 20-minute salad brings together tender asparagus, fluffy couscous, and a bright citrus dressing. The zesty flavor of the citrus pairs well with the earthy asparagus, creating a refreshing bite. A sprinkle of almonds adds a nice crunch to the mix. It’s a light and easy salad that’s great for spring or summer.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Asparagus Couscous

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Thinly shaved Brussels sprouts are the base of this crunchy salad, combined with dried cranberries and a simple lemon dressing. It takes just 15 minutes to make, and the Brussels sprouts offer a fresh, nutty flavor. The cranberries add a sweet-tart contrast that works perfectly. Enjoy this as a quick side salad or light meal.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Zucchini Noodle Salad

Zucchini noodles, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs make up this light, refreshing salad that’s ready in just 10 minutes. The zucchini provides a crisp texture without the heaviness of traditional pasta. A lemon vinaigrette gives the dish a bright, tangy flavor. It’s a perfect quick salad for warm days when you need something fresh.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Noodle Salad

Veggie Couscous Salad

Fluffy couscous mixed with bell peppers, cucumbers, and fresh herbs forms the base of this 15-minute salad. It’s a colorful, veggie-packed dish that’s both light and satisfying. A simple vinaigrette adds a touch of acidity to bring everything together. This salad works well as a side or a light meal any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Couscous Salad

California Steak Salad

Juicy steak, avocado, and mixed greens come together in this 25-minute salad. The steak adds richness, while the avocado brings creaminess. Topped with a tangy vinaigrette, it’s flavorful and filling without being too heavy. A great option for a weeknight meal that feels special.
Get the Recipe: California Steak Salad

Spicy Citrus Salad with Pistachios

A white bowl containing sliced citrus fruits topped with chopped nuts is surrounded by whole citrus fruits on a wooden surface, making it one of those quick simple salads perfect for any occasion. — Spicy Citrus Salad with Pistachios. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This salad mixes vibrant citrus fruits with crunchy pistachios, creating a fresh and zesty dish in about 10 minutes. The citrus provides a burst of tangy sweetness, balanced by the nutty pistachios. A hint of spice elevates the flavors without overpowering them. It’s an easy salad that brings bold flavors to your table.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Citrus Salad with Pistachios

Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl

Grilled shrimp, quinoa, and fresh veggies come together in this flavorful grain bowl, ready in just 30 minutes. The shrimp brings a smoky, savory taste, while the quinoa keeps it light yet satisfying. Fresh herbs and a lemony dressing complete the dish. It’s a simple and filling meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl