17 Salad Recipe Ideas For Thanksgiving Unlock Flavor Sensations!
Published on: Mar 21, 2024
The Thanksgiving holiday is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, delicious food. While the traditional turkey and mashed potatoes may be the star of the show, it's always a good idea to have some lighter options on the table. This is where salads come in. Not only are they a refreshing addition to a heavy meal, but they also add a pop of color and nutrition to the table. Here are some creative and tasty salad recipe ideas to incorporate into your Thanksgiving feast.
Main Ingredients: Quinoa, Water, Chickpeas, Cucumber, Red Bell Pepper
Quinoa is a delicious and nutritious grain that is perfect for salads. This recipe combines quinoa with fresh vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing and satisfying dish. Not only is this salad packed with flavor, but it is also rich in protein and fiber, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
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French Carrot Salad
Main Ingredients: Carrots, Fresh Parsley, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Freshly
This French-inspired salad is simple yet elegant. Thinly sliced carrots are tossed with a Dijon mustard vinaigrette and topped with fresh parsley for a burst of flavor. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and add a touch of sophistication to your meal.
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The Best Potato Salad
Main Ingredients: Medium Potatoes, White Vinegar, Celery Stalks, Onions
Potato salad is a classic side dish that is always a hit at any barbecue or potluck. This recipe takes the traditional potato salad and elevates it with the addition of crispy bacon and tangy pickles. The combination of flavors and textures will have you coming back for seconds.
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Caesar Salad
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic, Baguette, Lemon Juice
This timeless salad is a favorite for many, and for good reason. Fresh romaine lettuce is tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing and topped with crunchy croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese. It's a simple yet satisfying salad that is perfect as a side dish or main course.
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Shrimp Salad
Main Ingredients: Medium Shrimp, Mayonnaise, Lemon Juice, Old Bay
For seafood lovers, this shrimp salad is a must-try. Juicy shrimp are tossed with a zesty lemon dressing and mixed with crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. It's a light and refreshing option for a hot summer day.
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Waldorf Salad
Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise, Lemon Juice, Salt, Freshly Ground Black
This classic salad originated in the Waldorf-Astoria hotel in New York City and has been a favorite ever since. Apples, grapes, and celery are mixed with a creamy dressing and topped with crunchy walnuts. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this salad a crowd-pleaser.
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Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette Salad Dressing
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Garlic, Dried
No salad is complete without a delicious dressing, and this homemade balsamic vinaigrette is a game-changer. The tangy balsamic vinegar pairs perfectly with the sweet honey and Dijon mustard. It's easy to make and adds a burst of flavor to any salad.
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Amazing Chicken Salad
Main Ingredients: Cooked Chicken, Celery, Hard Boiled Egg, Relish, Mayo
This chicken salad is anything but boring. Tender chicken is mixed with crunchy apples and celery, and then dressed in a creamy yogurt and honey dressing. It's a healthier take on the classic chicken salad and is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
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Best Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Celery, Onion, Dill Pickle, Mayonnaise
Macaroni salad is a staple at any barbecue or picnic, and this recipe takes it to the next level. Bell peppers, red onion, and celery add a pop of color and flavor to the traditional macaroni salad.
This salad is a staple in Israeli cuisine and is a refreshing and healthy option. Diced cucumber, tomato, and bell pepper are mixed with fresh herbs and a lemon and olive oil dressing. It's a simple yet flavorful salad that pairs well with any meal.
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Southern Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Hard Boiled Eggs, Celery Stalks, Red Bell
This Southern-style macaroni salad is a crowd-pleaser. Pickles, hard-boiled eggs, and mustard give this salad a tangy and flavorful twist. It's a great side dish for any barbecue or potluck.
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Homestyle Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Red Bell Pepper, Celery, Red Onion
For a more traditional macaroni salad, this homestyle recipe is a winner. Celery, bell pepper, and red onion are combined with a creamy mayonnaise dressing. It's a simple and classic dish that will never go out of style.
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Egg Salad
Main Ingredients: Hard Boiled Eggs, Celery, Red Onion, Dill, Chives
Egg salad is a simple yet satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a sandwich filling. Hard-boiled eggs are mixed with mayonnaise, mustard, and fresh herbs for a creamy and flavorful salad. It's a great option for a quick and easy lunch.
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Grape Salad
Main Ingredients: Grapes, Red Seedless Grapes, Sour Cream, Cream Cheese
This unique salad is a great way to use up any extra grapes you have on hand. Cream cheese, sour cream, and brown sugar create the creamy and sweet dressing, while candied pecans add a satisfying crunch. It's a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
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Chicken Salad
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Celery, Red Bell
Another delicious chicken salad recipe, this version combines crispy bacon and creamy avocado with grilled chicken for a flavorful and filling dish. It's perfect for a light lunch or served as a sandwich.
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Cucumber Salad
Main Ingredients: Cucumbers, Salt, Red Onion, Sour Cream, Sugar
This cucumber salad is light, refreshing, and full of flavor. Thinly sliced cucumbers are tossed with a tangy vinegar and sugar dressing and topped with fresh dill. It's a great option for a hot summer day or as a side dish for a heavier meal.
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Best Ever Egg Salad
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Mayonnaise, Fresh Lemon Juice, Dijon Mustard
This egg salad recipe lives up to its name. Chunks of hard-boiled eggs are mixed with creamy avocado and tangy Dijon mustard for a unique and delicious twist. It's a healthier option for those looking to cut back on mayonnaise.
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Deviled Egg Salad
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Green Onion, Chopped Celery, Red Bell Pepper
If you love deviled eggs, then you'll love this deviled egg salad. Hard-boiled eggs are mashed with mayonnaise, mustard, and pickle relish for a tangy and creamy salad. It's perfect for a picnic or as a sandwich filling.
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German Potato Salad
Main Ingredients: Kosher Salt, Red Potatoes, Thick Cut Bacon, Yellow
This German-inspired potato salad is a great alternative to the traditional mayonnaise-based version. Potatoes are tossed in a tangy vinaigrette dressing and mixed with crispy bacon and diced red onion.. It's a hearty and flavorful side dish that pairs well with any grilled meat.
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Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Main Ingredients: Couscous, Water, Vegetable Bouillon, Extra Virgin Olive
This couscous salad is a great option for those looking for a healthier alternative to pasta. Couscous is mixed with fresh vegetables, chickpeas, and a zesty lemon dressing for a light and satisfying dish. It's also a great option for meal prep and can be enjoyed as a cold salad or warmed up.
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Favorite Quinoa Salad
Main Ingredients: Quinoa, Water, Chickpeas, Cucumber, Red Bell Pepper
Quinoa is a superfood that is packed with protein and nutrients, making it the perfect base for a healthy and delicious salad. This recipe combines quinoa with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon dressing for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
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French Carrot Salad
Main Ingredients: Carrots, Fresh Parsley, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Freshly
This classic French salad is simple yet flavorful, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. Thinly sliced carrots are tossed in a Dijon mustard dressing, and then topped with fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
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The Best Potato Salad
Main Ingredients: Medium Potatoes, White Vinegar, Celery Stalks, Onions
Potato salad is a staple at any summer barbecue, and this recipe takes it to the next level. Creamy potatoes are combined with crunchy celery, pickles, and a tangy dressing for a delicious and satisfying side dish.
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Caesar Salad
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic, Baguette, Lemon Juice
This salad is a classic for a reason. Crisp romaine lettuce is tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing, and then topped with crunchy croutons and tangy Parmesan cheese. Serve it as a side, or add some grilled chicken for a complete meal.
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Shrimp Salad
Main Ingredients: Medium Shrimp, Mayonnaise, Lemon Juice, Old Bay
For all the seafood lovers out there, this shrimp salad is a must-try. Juicy shrimp are combined with fresh vegetables and tossed in a lemon herb dressing for a light and refreshing meal.
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Waldorf Salad
Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise, Lemon Juice, Salt, Freshly Ground Black
This salad is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Crunchy apples, grapes, and walnuts are combined with tender chicken and a creamy dressing for a delicious and unique salad experience.
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Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette Salad Dressing
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Garlic, Dried
No salad is complete without a tasty dressing, and this homemade balsamic vinaigrette is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich and flavorful dressing that will elevate any salad.
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Amazing Chicken Salad
Main Ingredients: Cooked Chicken, Celery, Hard Boiled Egg, Relish, Mayo
This chicken salad is anything but boring. Tender chicken is combined with sweet grapes, crunchy almonds, and a tangy dressing for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
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Best Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Celery, Onion, Dill Pickle, Mayonnaise
Macaroni salad is a classic dish that never goes out of style. This recipe adds a twist by using a tangy vinaigrette dressing instead of the traditional mayo-based one, making it a lighter and healthier option.
This salad is popular in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, and for good reason. Fresh vegetables are combined with herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil for a simple yet delicious salad that pairs well with any meal.
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Southern Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Hard Boiled Eggs, Celery Stalks, Red Bell
If you're looking for a more traditional macaroni salad, this Southern-style recipe is for you. Creamy mayo, tangy mustard, and a hint of sweetness make this salad a crowd-pleaser at any summer gathering.
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Homestyle Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Red Bell Pepper, Celery, Red Onion
This macaroni salad recipe is reminiscent of the ones you would find at family picnics and potlucks. It's simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
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Egg Salad
Main Ingredients: Hard Boiled Eggs, Celery, Red Onion, Dill, Chives
Egg salad is a classic sandwich filling, but it's also great on its own as a salad. Hard-boiled eggs are combined with creamy mayo, tangy mustard, and crunchy celery for a simple yet satisfying dish.
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Grape Salad
Main Ingredients: Grapes, Red Seedless Grapes, Sour Cream, Cream Cheese
This salad is a unique and delicious way to enjoy grapes. The fruit is combined with a creamy dressing, crunchy almonds, and tangy blue cheese for a flavor explosion in every bite.
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Chicken Salad
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Celery, Red Bell
For a twist on the traditional chicken salad, try this recipe that adds a touch of sweetness with fresh fruit. The combination of tender chicken, juicy grapes, and crunchy pecans is sure to be a hit.
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Cucumber Salad
Main Ingredients: Cucumbers, Salt, Red Onion, Sour Cream, Sugar
Cucumber salad is a light and refreshing side dish that is perfect for hot summer days. Thinly sliced cucumbers are combined with a tangy dressing for a simple yet flavorful salad.
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Best Ever Egg Salad
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Mayonnaise, Fresh Lemon Juice, Dijon Mustard
This egg salad recipe takes things up a notch by adding crispy bacon and tangy Dijon mustard. It's the perfect combination of savory and creamy flavors that will have you going back for seconds.
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Deviled Egg Salad
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Green Onion, Chopped Celery, Red Bell Pepper
If you love deviled eggs, you'll love this deviled egg salad. All the flavors of the classic appetizer are combined with creamy mayo and crunchy celery for a delicious and satisfying salad.
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German Potato Salad
Main Ingredients: Kosher Salt, Red Potatoes, Thick Cut Bacon, Yellow
This potato salad is a popular dish in Germany, and for good reason. It's made with a warm bacon dressing that adds a smoky and savory flavor to the tender potatoes, making it a perfect side for any meal.
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Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Main Ingredients: Couscous, Water, Vegetable Bouillon, Extra Virgin Olive
This salad is a hearty and flavorful option that can be served as a meal on its own. Tender couscous is combined with fresh vegetables and herbs for a delicious and healthy salad that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Warm Kale and Quinoa Salad
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 bunch kale, chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup toasted walnuts
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, mix together the quinoa, kale, cranberries, walnuts, and feta cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Serve warm and enjoy!
This warm and hearty salad is perfect for the chilly Thanksgiving weather. The combination of quinoa, kale, and cranberries provides a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The walnuts add a satisfying crunch and the feta cheese adds a tangy and creamy element. This salad also makes for great leftovers the next day.
Pomegranate and Persimmon Salad
Ingredients:
4 cups mixed greens
1 large ripe persimmon, sliced
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, mix together the greens, persimmon slices, pomegranate seeds, and goat cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Serve and enjoy!
This colorful and festive salad is full of fall flavors. The sweet persimmons, tart pomegranate seeds, and tangy goat cheese create a perfect balance. Greens such as spinach, arugula, and kale all work well in this salad. The dressing, made with olive oil, honey, and apple cider vinegar, adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Sweet Potato and Brussels Sprout Salad
Ingredients:
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup toasted pecans
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
In a large bowl, toss together the sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and pecans with the olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!
This warm and hearty salad is packed with fall flavors. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts creates a delicious base, while the cranberries and pecans add pops of sweetness and crunch. The dressing, made with olive oil, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar, complements the flavors of the vegetables perfectly.
Conclusion
Incorporating a salad into your Thanksgiving meal not only adds balance to the heavy dishes, but it also provides a healthy and delicious option for your guests. These salad recipe ideas are simple, yet flavorful and are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering. So go ahead and give them a try and make your Thanksgiving feast even more memorable!
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