6 Easy Salad Ideas

These 6 easy salad ideas are fresh, colourful, and packed with flavour. Whether you’re after a quick lunch, a light dinner, or just some simple salad inspiration, there’s something here for you. All the recipes are vegetarian, naturally gluten free, and easy to make dairy free or vegan. Scroll down to explore the full list.

Why You Will Love these Salad Recipes

There are many reasons to love a good salad, and I particularly love these recipes because they are bright, colourful and packed with vitamins. Some contain flavours that are a bit original in a salad, such as strawberries or soy sauce.

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know that I love easy recipes, and these salad ideas are no exception – they are incredibly simple to make.

I believe that eating seasonally wherever possible is very important, that’s why I have included some that are perfect for spring, others for summer, and a few that shine in autumn and winter.

Choose the right Salad Dressing

In my opinion, they key to a great salad is an amazing dressing. Take a look at these:

Lemon and poppy seed dressing in a mason jar with dressing dribbling from a spoon — Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing

Asian-Style Balsamic Salad Dressing in a jam jar with a spoon drizzling — Asian Style Balsamic Salad Dressing

Apple Cider and Herb Vinaigrette in a jam jar with dressing dripping from a spoon — Apple Cider and Herb Vinaigrette

I find that the lemon poppy seed dressing goes exceptionally well with the endive, apple and walnut salad, whereas the Asian style balsamic salad dressing and apple cider and herb vinaigrette are more versatile and will complement many different salads, including a simple green salad.

Easy salad ideas pinterest graphic in english

My Favourite 6 Easy Salad Ideas

Here are six of my favourite salad recipes — including dairy free options — perfect for any occasion. Tap the photos below to explore each recipe in detail.

Bowl of quinoa salad with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, and fresh herbs

Greek Salad With Quinoa

Fresh veggies and delicious herbs in a tangy dressing combine with nutritious quinoa and bright, salty feta to make an incredibly flavourful salad. If you’re looking for a side for your next BBQ or simply a quick lunch you can make ahead, this quinoa recipe is for you! Naturally gluten-free and simple to make dairy-free too, this salad suits a variety of dietary needs.

Endive Salad With Apple and Walnut

This is a simple side that works well through Autumn and Winter. The sweetness of the apples balances the slight bitterness of the endive, and the toasted walnuts add a bit of crunch and depth.

Easy summer salad with roasted Mediterranean vegetables and rocket leaves

Summer Roast Vegetable Salad with Roquette

Softly caramelised summer vegetables are paired with peppery roquette (also known as arugula) and finished with a drizzle of balsamic dressing. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and ideal for warm-weather meals.

overhead of quinoa salad recipe with strawberries, fresh veggies and feta before tossing

Quinoa Salad Recipe with strawberries and a sweet basil dressing

This quinoa salad recipe with strawberries and a sweet basil dressing has all the flavours of summer on one plate! It combines nutty quinoa, juicy strawberries, a mix of fresh veggies and sharp feta—all tossed in the most delicious sweet basil dressing. Whether you need a gluten-free lunch that’s light yet satisfying or an original side dish for your next BBQ, this fresh and flavourful salad is sure to become a family favourite.

Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables served in a blue bowl, topped with fresh herbs

Roasted Vegetables with Quinoa

Packed with soft, sweet roasted vegetables and tossed in a zesty lemon and garlic vinaigrette, this salad is full of flavour, naturally vegan and protein-rich. Easily customised with seasonal vegetables, your favourite cheese, or even grilled chicken, it is satisfying enough to enjoy as a main or a hearty side.

Tomato and Mozzarella Salad with Basil Oil

A perfectly balanced, colourful salad, this Tomato and Mozzarella Salad with Basil Oil will bring a ray of sunshine to every meal. Serve without Mozzarella if you are looking for a dairy free alternative – it will still be delicious!

6 easy salad ideas pinterest graphic in french

Did you try any of these recipes? Let me know how it turned out below. Don’t forget to take a photo and tag me on social media @candleinthekitchen, I love to see your creations!

Why You Will Love these Salad Recipes

Choose the right Salad Dressing

My Favourite 6 Easy Salad Ideas

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