Every year without fail, some of my absolute favorite dishes on the holiday table are the salads! Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy the super indulgent main courses and sides just as much as anyone else, but a couple of delicious salads are essential. A little crunch, a burst of color, something fresh to cut through the heavy stuff… They always fly straight off the table when I’m hosting over the holidays, and these ones here are the ones that I return to every year.
Here’s what to expect from this collection:
- Seasonal ingredients like kale, cranberries, nuts, and citrus that bring real winter flavor.
- Make-ahead friendly options so you can prep the night before and still impress.
- Grain-based bowls and roasted veggie salads that double as side or main.
- Colorful slaws and pasta salads that look gorgeous next to sliced ham or turkey.
- Leftover-inspired ideas (covering chicken and beef and ham, to make sure nothing gets thrown in the bin this year!)
Whether you’re hosting dinner, bringing a side, or just looking for something that won’t put you in a food coma, these salads bring a little brightness (and a lot of flavor) to the holiday table.
More Tips From My Kitchen to Yours:
- Make it Ahead: Choose salads that taste even better after the flavors marry for a few hours in the fridge. This means less stress on party day!
- Dress to Impress, Separately: Always pack your dressing on the side and toss the salad just before serving. This keeps everything beautifully crisp.
- Think of the Kids: If you’re taking a salad to a family gathering, a simple, sweeter element like mandarin segments or dried cranberries can make all the difference in winning over the picky eaters.
Zucchini Noodle Salad with Herbs, Cashews and Chilli Dressing
Our household always regarded this fresh and light zucchini noodle salad as a favorite dish especially during the holidays due to its colorful appeal. Spiralized zucchini twirls around vibrancy of herbs, crunchiness of cashews, and a zingy chili dressing—every single bite is chilling and refreshing thus elevating any festive dinner. It is extremely easy to throw together and my kids never stop asking for more of this enjoyable and healthy dish.
Crunchy Silverbeet Slaw
This silverbeet slaw radiating in colors adds a healthy crunch to our table. I cut fresh silverbeet into thin slices, mix it with other vegetables and pour over the dressing that I made. Each bite feels juicy and has texture which makes it a holiday side dish that people want to eat again and again. I cherish how quickly it can be done—perfect for busy moms and hungry children.
Buckwheat Buddha Bowl with Ginger Tamari Dressing
A lot of healthy stuff is contained in this strong buckwheat Buddha bowl. I heap light as a feather buckwheat with roasted vegetables, avocado, a bit of greens with colors and pour over all a warm ginger tamari dressing. It gives the feelings of nurturing and coziness. My husband and kids appreciate that it’s nourishing and healthy as well as filling, especially after a cold Christmas afternoon.
Roasted Vegetable Salad with Fennel and Chilli Vinaigrette
This cozy roasted vegetable salad gives a warm hug to your taste buds. I roast my carrots, sweet potatoes, and fresh fennel enhancing their natural sweetness through caramelization and mix them with a zesty chili vinaigrette. The dressing’s slight spiciness makes every bite feel heated. It is very simple to make and very quickly vanished – a favorite during holidays at our house.
Roasted Carrot & Ginger Soup (Velvety & Bright)
Asparagus, Lemon and Pecan Wild Rice Salad
This asparagus, lemon and pecan wild rice salad is so much about freshness and brightness. Fluffy wild rice along with the very tender blanched asparagus, zesty lemon peel, and crunchy pecans are the ingredients of this salad. One thing I really love about this salad is its combination of flavors – citrus and warmth of nuts. It is a perfect fit for our holiday feast. My family can’t get enough of the nutty and citrusy flavor contrast they get in every bite.
Marinated Cauliflower and Sprout Salad with Tomato Dressing
This salad is loaded with tangy and garden-fresh flavor. Cauliflower florets and sprouts are all marinated lightly in a lively dressing made with tomatoes. The crunch and tangy flavor of this salad is what actually rouses your taste-buds. I make it for my family since it’s easy and healthy. Even the most difficult kids at my table ask for more during holidays.
Smoky Chipotle Black Bean Soup Recipe (Vegan) –
Avocado, Raspberry and Lentil Salad
The avocado, raspberry and lentil salad is a superb combination of the nice and pleasant flavors that the salad can be enjoyed during the holidays. I blend the fatty avocado pieces with the very juicy raspberries, nutty lentils, and a couple of green leaves. Each bite is a discovery of refreshing berry sweetness against the solid lentils. It’s a plain, uplifting dish that even my little ones pronounce as their favorite because of its sweet taste and smooth texture.
Vegan Quinoa and Chickpea Balls with Beetroot Slaw
Those vegan quinoa and chickpea balls resemble tiny protein treasures packed with nutrients. After mixing with spices, I roast the balls until they are golden brown, and then serve them with a zesty beetroot slaw. The bright, creamy slaw is just what the savory balls needed to cut through their richness perfectly. It is a healthy and playful dish that kids will also enjoy – it is just right for holiday reunions. I guarantee they will fall for the tangy crunch!
Mixed Grain and Roast Vegetable Salad
This salad bowl made with mixed grains and roasted vegetables is definitely a festival of hearty textures and flavors. I mix the grains while they are still warm, maybe barley or quinoa, with colorful roasted sweet peppers, zucchini, and carrots. The result is cozy and filling. It’s such a dish where every veggie and grain is distinctly tasted. My family appreciates it whenever this salad is offered at their holiday celebration for its filling and healthful quality.
Couscous and Pomegranate Salad
This couscous and pomegranate salad is light and full of joy. I fluff up tiny couscous pearls and stir in bright, jewel-like pomegranate seeds with fresh herbs. Each bite is a burst of sweet-tart flavor that keeps everyone reaching for more. It’s wonderfully simple to prepare and looks festive. My kids especially love the pop of those pomegranate seeds on top!
Indian Chopped Salad
This Indian chopped salad is a zesty, vibrant delight. I chop up crunchy veggies like cucumber, tomato, and onion, then toss them with tangy lime and warming spices. The flavors feel bright and fresh. It reminds me of family meals in summer, and it adds a fun twist to our Christmas table. Everyone loves its bold, tangy flavor and satisfying crunch!
Curried Mango Rice Salad
This curried mango rice salad is a sweet and spicy treat. I stir juicy mango chunks into fluffy rice seasoned with warm curry spices. Each bite is creamy, exotic, and full of color. It’s a fun recipe that always surprises my family – even picky eaters ask for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to make in advance, freeing up time for other holiday fun!
Shaved Fennel, Rocket and Pickled Lemon Salad
This shaved fennel, rocket (arugula) and pickled lemon salad is crisp and fancy. I thinly slice sweet fennel and toss it with peppery rocket leaves and tiny bits of tangy pickled lemon. The sour lemon hits the palate like a holiday surprise. It’s a refreshing dish my family enjoys between rich meals. Best of all, it’s so simple that even busy moms can pull it together quickly!
Lentil, Roast Beetroot and Baby Carrot Salad
This lentil, roast beetroot and baby carrot salad is earthy, sweet, and filling. I combine tender green lentils with caramelized roast beets and baby carrots, all drizzled with a light vinaigrette. Each bite feels warm and wholesome. It’s one of those salads that stays on the table long after dinner. My family loves how it’s healthy yet indulgent during the holidays.
Fiesta Salsa
This fiesta salsa is my go-to crowd-pleaser. I chop fresh tomatoes, peppers, onions, and cilantro, and season them with lime and chili for a bright, zesty kick. It’s colorful, fun, and perfect for dipping with crispy chips. Everyone at the holiday party keeps coming back for more. I love serving this salsa because it feels festive and brings smiles all around!
