You Won’t Miss the Meat with These 15 Hearty Salad Recipes

Trying to cut down on meat but still want a meal that leaves you full and happy? Look no further. These salad recipes are here to show that a meat-free salad doesn’t have to be boring. They are packed with all sorts of flavors and different foods that will keep your stomach from rumbling. Easy to make and enjoyable, these options prove that salads can be just as hearty as any meat dish. Ready to try something new?

Horiatiki Salad with feta cheese on top served on a plate.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad in a bowl.
Mexican Street Corn Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re craving flavors inspired by street food, this one’s for you. The mix of charred corn, creamy elements, and spices gives you a flavor punch that feels like a party in your mouth. Each bite brings a warmth and a bit of smokiness. It’s like enjoying street food without leaving your home. This salad can be a great side or even a main dish because it’s filling. The combo of ingredients ensures you’ll remember it.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad in a white serving bowl.
Shirazi Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You might like that it’s fresh and simple with a nice balance of tang and crunch. Perfect as a side dish or on its own, it’s super versatile. The freshness makes it ideal for hot days or when you need something light. Shirazi Salad brings flavors together without overwhelming you. It’s also quick to whip up when you’re in a rush. It’s refreshing and brightens up any meal time.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice salad served on a white rectangular plate.
Wild Rice Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Here’s a great hearty option. It feels like a meal in itself due to its filling ingredients. Wild Rice Salad offers a mix of textures that keep things interesting. This one is perfect for fall or winter but works anytime you need something substantial. The nutty tones of rice paired with fresh elements make it wholesome. You’ll end up liking how balanced the flavors are.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Mediterranean Chopped Salad with crumbled feta cheese, on a yellow plate with flower designs.
Mediterranean Chopped Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Great for fans of bold flavors. The ingredients come together for a mix that’s both satisfying and light. Mediterranean Chopped Salad is perfect when you want something fresh but also filling. You can serve it as a main or pair it with other dishes. The variety of textures really makes each bite different. It fits well into a healthy diet without feeling like you’re missing out.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Spring salad with asparagus and potatoes on a white plate.
Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Ideal for spring or any time you want something bright and fresh. The mix of green veggies and potatoes gives it a balanced feel. You won’t miss the meat due to its hearty ingredients. This salad is wonderful for picnics or as a fresh side dish. The combination is colorful and pleasing to the eye. Eating this feels like taking a bite out of spring.
Get the Recipe: Spring Salad with Asparagus, Peas & Potatoes

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This salad feels like a mini trip to Italy. The orzo and pesto work so well together, offering a rich yet light flavor. Great as a main or side, it’s pretty versatile. The aromatic elements of the pesto make it stand out. With its pleasing texture, each bite is enjoyable. It’s a crowd-pleaser so it’s great for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

A plate of Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Forget about long lines at fast food joints. You can enjoy a healthier version at home. This bowl has all the flavors you love but made better. Each bite offers a satisfying mix of textures and tastes. It’s packed with hearty ingredients that keep you full. You’ll appreciate how it’s both a nod to fast food but also a step up.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

A plate of Mediterranean Couscous Salad With Smoked Tomatoes topped with parsley.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Perfect if you want something light yet filling. The smoky tomatoes give it an interesting twist that you don’t always find in salads. This one is great for lunch or dinner. The couscous adds just the right amount of bulk without being heavy. The mix of flavors makes it memorable. You’ll enjoy how everything works so well together.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

A bowl of salmon pasta salad with a creamy dressing, garnished with a sprig of dill.
Easy Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Ideal for fans of seafood. The salmon brings a richness that’s balanced by light pasta. Easy Salmon Pasta Salad is great for meal prep or a quick dinner. It’s filling enough to be a meal on its own. The blend of flavors and textures is pleasant and keeps you coming back. You’ll appreciate that it’s both simple and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

A black bowl filled with tabbouleh salad with smoked tomatoes.
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

A nice twist on the classic tabouli. The smoked tomatoes add an extra layer of flavor that’s quite unique. It’s perfect as a side or main salad. Each bite is fresh, thanks to herbs and grains. You’ll find it light but also surprisingly hearty. Great for when you want something different but familiar.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic

Herbed potato salad on a white platter.
Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You can’t go wrong with this hearty choice. The green garlic adds a fresh kick compared to traditional potato salads. Perfect for BBQs or as a standalone dish. This salad is both filling and flavorful. The mix of herbs keeps it lively. Ideal for when you want something that feels like comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic

Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Close-up shot of Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad on a white plate.
Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Perfect for fans of grilled flavors. The charred asparagus adds a wonderful smokiness that pairs well with potatoes. This salad feels both hearty and light. Great for cookouts or as a side dish. The grilling process gives it an extra depth of flavor. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy these veggies in a salad form.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Asparagus and Potato Salad

Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

A bowl of yellow bean and potato salad.
Yellow Bean & Potato Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A refreshing take on potato salad. The yellow beans add a nice crunch that contrasts well with potatoes. Great as a side or standalone dish. It’s filling yet feels light. You won’t miss the meat with this mix. Perfect for summer gatherings or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Bean & Potato Salad

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s one for the seafood lovers. The shrimp adds a richness that blends perfectly with the orzo. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is both satisfying and light. Ideal for a main meal or a special side. You’ll enjoy the seasoned elements that make each bite interesting. A crowd-pleaser for sure.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Horiatiki Salad

Horiatiki Salad with feta cheese on top served on a plate.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A go-to for something fresh and simple. Horiatiki Salad features the classic mix that’s beloved by many. It’s perfect for any meal, whether as a side or main. The flavors come together beautifully without much fuss. This salad is great when you want something wholesome and straightforward. Each bite feels like a taste of Greece.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

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