Crave-worthy salads. Not an exaggeration. These vegan salads are filling, flavorful, and completely satisfying! No sad salads here—these salads are to be enjoyed as the main course for lunch or dinner!

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A collage of four vegan salads.

I don’t know about you, but the second I mention I’m vegan all I hear is, “Oh, so you eat, like, salads?” Well, yeah. But I also eat LOADS of other stuff.

I just happen to like salads. And so should you! Leafy greens have the highest nutrient density per calorie. We should be eating a large salad every day. Not as a side, but as a meal. That’s the only way to pack in a majority of the micronutrients we need.

In this post, I am sharing over 45 of my favorite vegan salads to inspire you to eat more salads. From warm winter salads to refreshing summer salads, there’s something for everyone! Salads can be enjoyed year-round!

Vegan Salad Tips

Before we dive in, here are some quick suggestions for making satisfying vegan salads!

Add Protein

For staying power, it’s important to add at least one source of protein to your vegan salad. Here are some great options:

Luckily, all of these vegan salads have at least one of these protein sources, making them excellent main-course meals that will keep you full for hours!

Vegan Salad Dressings

The dressing can make or break the salad. Choose something that will complement your protein source of choice. Store-bought is fine, but there’s nothing better than a fresh homemade salad dressing. These are some of my personal favorites:

How To Store Salads

I love to meal prep salads ahead of time, but the risk is having your delicious vegan salads wilt and spoil before you can enjoy it. Here are the best tips to keep your vegan salads fresh and flavorful for several days:

  • Use airtight containers: Store your salad in airtight containers to prevent air from reaching the salad, causing it to wilt faster.
  • Keep it cold: Store your salad in the coolest part of the refrigerator, usually the bottom shelf or the crisper drawer.
  • Add dressing before serving: If possible, wait to add the dressing until you’re ready to eat the salad. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy prematurely. You can still prep the dressing ahead of time, just store it separately until ready to eat.

Best Vegan Salads

Ready to enjoy the best vegan salad recipes? I’ve rounded up over 45 amazing vegan salads that are completely mouthwateringly delicious and will keep you full for hours!

1. Ancient Grains Salad

Ancient grains salad served on a white platter with wooden salad servers placed in the right corner.

This nutritious Ancient Grains Salad serves as a nourishing and satisfying meal packed with fiber, plant-based protein, vitamins, and minerals! It showcases succulent cherry tomatoes, savory kalamata olives, and a delightful tahini dressing that is simply irresistible!

2. Summer Blackberry Salad

This is the best easy summer salad-- both healthy and delicious, mixed with quinoa, blackberries, a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, topped with pumpkin seeds and a vegan cashew ricotta. #vegansalad #summersalad #easysaladrecipe #cashewricotta #cashewcheese #blackberries

This effortless summer vegan salad combines healthiness with deliciousness, blending quinoa, blackberries, a zesty balsamic vinaigrette, garnished with pumpkin seeds, and adorned with vegan cashew ricotta.

3. Vegan Mason Jar Salads

three mason jar salads

This jarred salad is ideal for meal preparation! Prepare in advance to have ready-to-go salads for the entire week. It’s bursting with flavor and substantial enough to make a satisfying lunch or dinner.

4. Roasted Beet and Kale Salad with Lentils

A bowl of vegan salad with roasted beets, kale, lentils, and leeks.

This tasty Vegan Roasted Beet and Kale Salad, accompanied by green lentils and sautéed leeks, offers a hearty, nutritious, and satisfying meal packed with protein and fiber. Drizzle with a tangy lemon-tahini dressing, and garnish with sliced radishes and pumpkin seeds—you can add vegan feta for extra indulgence if desired!

5. Sweet Potato Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

A platter of sweet potato salad with lemon vinaigrette.

This filling spinach sweet potato salad stars roasted sweet potatoes, dried cranberries, swiftly candied pecans, and creamy white beans, all dressed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Your palate and stomach will adore this autumnal masterpiece! It’s vegan, gluten-free, and can be made oil-free too.

6. Pomegranate Cucumber and Lentil Salad

A large bowl of a vegan pomegranate cucumber salad.

This nutritious Pomegranate Cucumber and Lentil Salad is incredibly simple to prepare. Whip up a tangy pomegranate dressing effortlessly to complement this Mediterranean-inspired lentil salad.

7. Winter Kale Salad with Butternut Squash and Farro

A plate of a vegan kale salad with butternut squash and farro.

This charming Winter Kale Salad with Butternut Squash and Farro is brimming with flavor. The dressing is light, easy to prepare, and equally nutritious.

8. Balsamic Pasta Salad

An arm holding out a bowl of balsamic pasta salad.

Balsamic pasta salad stands as a timeless and effortless summer favorite, constituting a complete meal with its abundance of veggies, rich flavors, varied textures, and nutritional benefits. Whether for work lunches or picnics, it travels well!

9. Avocado Artichoke Lentil Salad

A bowl of lentil salad topped with avocado slices and artichokes.

This vegan lentil salad with avocado and artichoke is rich in protein and fiber, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying work lunch or dinner side.

10. Rainbow Farro Salad

A plate of rainbow farro salad with colorful veggies in a row.

The Rainbow Farro Salad, dressed with tahini lemon dressing, is not only visually stunning but also incredibly nutritious!

11. California Guacamole Salad

Two large bowls of California guacamole salad.

Are you a fan of chips and guacamole? This hearty California Guacamole Salad, brimming with black beans, tomatoes, and crushed tortilla chips, transforms it into a full meal. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s even portable when packed in mason jars for on-the-go enjoyment!

12. Vegan Kale Crunch Salad

Large  bowl of vegan kale salad topped with crunchy chickpeas and avocado slices.

The Vegan Kale Crunch Salad has a delicious mixture of textures that promises a satisfying experience with every bite. It’s a salad that will win your heart no matter the season!

13. Vegan Massaged Winter Kale Salad with Sweet Potato and Apple

A bowl of vegan kale salad.

A kale salad featuring sweet potato, apple, and pecans, massaged with a flavorful oil-free red wine vinegar and tahini dressing, offers an irresistibly delicious and addictive taste.

14. White Bean Antipasto Salad

A bowl of antipasto bean salad.

Create a speedy and effortless meal with this white bean antipasto salad. Packed with vibrant and tangy ingredients, it requires minimal preparation for bold flavors.

15. Greek Goddess Vegan Quinoa Salad

A bowl of Greek goddess vegan quinoa salad.

What do you get when you combine a Greek salad with green goddess dressing, and hearty Peruvian quinoa? The result is a delicious Greek Goddess Vegan Quinoa Salad with a quinoa foundation topped with tofu, Kalamata olives, and cucumber and an herby green dressing infused with a hint of garlic, ginger, and the rich, nutty flavor of tahini. Yum!

16. Tabouli Salad Recipe

Tabbouleh salad in a bowl with parsley, bulgur wheat, mint leaves, onion, and tomatoes.

Tabouli (also spelled tabbouleh) is a classic Lebanese salad consisting of finely chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and soaked bulgur wheat. Seasoned with fresh lemon juice and a touch of olive oil, this salad is both healthy and incredibly tasty!

17. Jennifer Aniston’s High-Protein Quinoa Salad

A bowl of Jennifer Aniston's vegan salad with chickpeas, quinoa, pistachios, and lemon maple dressing.

Indulge in the viral Jennifer Aniston’s salad with this speedy and nutritious rendition. This high-protein variation boasts quinoa, chickpeas, fresh herbs, crunchy veggies, pistachios, and vegan feta, all adorned with a zesty lemon-mint vinaigrette.

18. Warm Potato Salad with Herbs

A plate of warm potato salad with herbs.

This German-style warm vegan potato salad is quick to prepare in under 15 minutes and versatile—delicious served hot, cold, or at room temperature. Packed with fresh herbs and green beans, it’s the quintessential summer salad.

19. Sheet Pan Veggie Shawarma

A bowl of vegan veggie shawarma.

Experience a burst of flavors with this veggie shawarma, a delicious twist on the traditional Middle Eastern dish. Instead of meat, use a vibrant array of colorful vegetables like cauliflower, green beans, and chickpeas seasoned to perfection. Serve over a bed of lettuce with homemade garlic aioli sauce.

20. BBQ Chickpea Salad

A bowl of vegan BBQ chickpea salad topped with tomatoes, black beans, corn, and bbq chickpeas.

This BBQ Chickpea Salad is a scrumptious source of protein and essential nutrients to power you through the day. Combine it with homemade BBQ sauce and serve it alongside sweet potatoes for a fulfilling meal bursting with flavor.

21. Beetroot and Sweet Potato Salad

A plate of vegan salad with beets and sweet potatoes.

Featuring a blend of sweet and savory notes, this beetroot and sweet potato salad offers a perfect balance of flavors. It serves as a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for the winter months.

22. Easy Tuscan Bean Salad

A bowl of vegan Tuscan bean salad with fresh herbs.

Try this Tuscan Bean Salad, crafted with creamy white cannellini beans, zesty lemon, and aromatic dill. Healthy, flavorful, and a breeze to prepare, it’s ready in just 15 minutes!

23. Kale Salad with Tahini Dressing & Roasted Chickpeas

A large serving bowl of vegan kale salad with chickpeas and tahini dressing.

Savor the irresistible crunch and tanginess of this Kale Salad with Tahini Dressing—a dish so addictive, you’ll find yourself craving it time and again. With crispy roasted chickpeas and a generous drizzle of lemony tahini dressing, every bite is full of flavor and texture!

24. Pumpkin Quinoa Salad

A bowl of vegan pumpkin quinoa salad.

Enjoy the flavors of fall with this Roasted Pumpkin Quinoa Salad, featuring dried cranberries, pecans, and baby spinach, all dressed in a delectable tahini dressing. This dish is bursting with autumnal goodness and is an absolute must-try!

25. Buffalo Tofu Salad

Vegan buffalo tofu on salad with tomatoes and vegan ranch dressing.

Try this Buffalo tofu salad, featuring pan-fried tofu coated in a spicy Buffalo sauce, paired with crispy carrots and celery. Whether you serve it atop greens, wrap it in a tortilla, or enjoy it as is, it’s sure to be delicious every time!

26. Vegan Mexican Chopped Salad with Avocado Dressing

Vegan avocado dressing being poured over a large bowl of chopped vegan Mexican salad.

This vegan Mexican chopped salad with avocado dressing is ideal for a satisfying lunch. Packed with fresh veggies, dietary fiber, and plant-based protein, this gluten-free salad is a nutritious delight.

27. BBQ Moroccan Eggplant Salad

A bowl of Moroccan eggplant salad.

No BBQ spread is complete without this Moroccan eggplant salad. Infused with delicate Moroccan spices and a hint of smokey BBQ flavor, complemented by roasted chickpeas, fresh arugula, and a zesty dressing, this vegan salad is a definite must-try.

28. Chinese Tofu Salad with Sesame Vinaigrette

Vegan Chinese tofu salad in a bowl with mandarin oranges, cucumber, and sesame vinaigrette.

Bringing together an array of textures, bold flavors, and healthy plant-based protein, this crunchy Chinese Tofu Salad is perfect for either lunch or dinner.

29. Vegan Couscous Salad

Vegan couscous salad on a plate.

Whip up this super healthy vegan couscous salad in 30 minutes or less, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch, snack, or dinner with friends.

30. Roasted Broccolini Salad

Roasted broccolini salad with cannellini beans.

You won’t be able to resist the rich and savory flavors of Broccolini salad, a versatile dish perfect for any season. Whether roasted in the oven or air fryer, the lightly charred broccolini pairs perfectly with bold elements like vegan blue cheese, red onion, crispy white beans, and a simple tahini dressing.

31. Soba Noodle Salad

Vegan soba noodle salad in a bowl.

When you’re craving a refreshing and light meal, try this Soba Noodle Salad. Packed with fresh veggies and chewy noodles coated in a flavorful umami-filled dressing, this salad is ready in just 20 minutes!

32. Asparagus and Pea Salad

Asparagus and pea salad.

Experience the freshness of spring with a bright and beautiful Asparagus and Pea Salad. This vibrant dish features seasonal asparagus tips, sugar snap peas, and sprouted chickpeas for a delightful crunch. Drizzle it with a tangy lemon tahini dressing for a sumptuous finish.

33. Vegan Brown Rice and Chickpea Salad

A small dish of vegan brown rice salad with veggies.

Savor the freshness of a cold vegan brown rice salad, featuring freshly chopped vegetables and chickpeas tossed in a simple lime dressing. Versatile enough to serve as a main dish or side, it’s the perfect option for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

34. Tropical Quinoa Salad with Coconut Lime Dressing

A plate of tropical quinoa salad with coconut lime dressing.

If you’re looking for a new favorite meatless meal, try this Tropical Quinoa Salad with Coconut Lime Dressing! The caramelized pineapple salsa lends a burst of flavor to this tasty salad, perfectly complemented by crunchy jicama. To top it off, the coconut lime dressing, brimming with cilantro, adds all the flavor you could desire in a salad.

35. Vegan Ranch Salad Recipe with BBQ Roasted Cauliflower

Three bowls of Vegan Ranch Salad with BBQ Roasted Cauliflower and Creamy Dressing.

Enjoy the simplicity of this stunning vegan ranch salad, featuring a flavorful Southwestern-style salad base, topped with barbecue-roasted cauliflower, and finished with a blend-and-serve dairy-free ranch dressing.

36. Vegan Buffalo Wing Salad

A bowl of vegan buffalo wing salad topped with crispy tofu wings and diced avocado.

For layers of flavor and texture, this Vegan Buffalo Wing Salad does not disappoint. These spicy Buffalo Wings are suitable for everyone, being soy-free, gluten-free, and oil-free! Drizzle on the cool ranch dressing for an incredible combination of creamy, crunchy, and spicy goodness.

37. Vegan BLT Pasta Salad

Vegan BLT pasta salad in a bowl.

Transform your BLT game with this easy Vegan BLT Pasta Salad recipe—the new go-to way to enjoy a BLT! With just 5 ingredients, featuring all the salty, smoky flavors of bacon, minus the meat, along with crisp romaine lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and creamy eggless mayo, this pasta salad is perfect for summer cookouts, BBQs, potlucks, or meal prep for healthy lunches all week long!

38. Quinoa, Edamame, and Roasted Broccoli Salad

Vegan quinoa edamame salad with roasted broccoli.

This roasted broccoli salad features lightly charred broccoli, hearty quinoa, rich edamame, and crunchy almonds, all topped with a zesty dressing made from whole lemons, sesame oil, garlic, and miso paste. Packed with protein, this salad is filling, hearty, and serves as an excellent main dish meal.

39. Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Salad

Crispy buffalo cauliflower bites on top of a salad with avocado slices and vegan bleu cheese dressing.

For a refreshingly crisp and cool salad, combine crisp romaine and herby cilantro, then add crunchy celery and carrots before topping with baked buffalo cauliflower bites. Drizzle with vegan bleu cheese dressing to finish off this flavorful salad!

40. Peach Quinoa Salad

Peach quinoa salad in a bowl with fresh basil leaves.

If you’re craving the taste of summer, try this Peach Quinoa Salad! Featuring nutty quinoa, juicy peaches, fresh corn, creamy avocado, peppery arugula, and candied jalapeños for a delightful pop of heat, this vegan summer salad is sure to become a favorite!

41. Tepary Bean and Black-Eyed Pea Salad with Cumin Vinaigrette

A bowl of Tepary bean salad with black-eyed peas and vegetables.

Summer provides the ideal backdrop for gathering with loved ones outdoors, and nothing brings people together quite like a vibrant salad! This recipe for vegan Tepary Bean and Black-Eyed Pea Salad with cumin vinaigrette is both refreshing and flavorful, making it the perfect accompaniment to any summer gathering!

42. Greek Artichoke Cauliflower Rice Salad

Vegan Greek artichoke cauliflower and rice salad in a bowl.

This low-carb cauliflower rice salad is a breeze to whip up and never fails to impress a crowd. With minimal prep time, it can be ready in just 15 minutes!

43. Butternut Squash Quinoa Salad

A plate of vegan butternut squash quinoa salad.

Enjoy the flavors of fall and winter with this Butternut Squash Quinoa Salad featuring spinach and apples. This vegan salad is both delicious and flavorful, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and entertaining!

44. Summer Salad with Mango Ginger Dressing

A bowl of rainbow summer salad with mango ginger dressing.

Packed with the vibrant flavors of summer’s bounty and drizzled with a wonderfully refreshing mango ginger dressing, this salad maintains its crispness and freshness, making it perfect for travel.

45. Turkish Chickpea Salad

A serving dish with vegan Turkish chickpea salad.

Prepare to be amazed by the burst of flavor in this Turkish chickpea salad, ready in just 20 minutes! It’s a game-changer for your summer meal prep routine!

46. Mango, Broccoli and Chickpea Salad Bowl

A plate of mango chickpea broccoli salad with a bowl of dressing in the center.

This vibrant broccoli and chickpea salad bowl, topped with a zesty mango lime dressing, is irresistible. Sweet, crunchy, and brimming with nutritional goodness, this vegan salad features baby greens, cucumber, tomatoes, radishes, and mango for a delightful burst of flavor and texture!

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A collage of four vegan salads.

45+ Vegan Salads | Loaded Lentil Salad

5 from 2 votes
Author: Rachel
Try these epic vegan salads that are filling, satisfying, and absolutely delicious! This loaded lentil salad combines tender brown lentils with crisp lettuce, red onion, black olives, red bell peppers, and cucumber, all drizzled with a zesty Dijon vinaigrette for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 3

Ingredients  

  • 1 15-ounce canned lentils
  • 4 cups lettuce chopped
  • ½ red onion finely sliced
  • ½ cup black olives pitted and sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 cucumber diced

Creamy Balsamic Dressing

  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • ¼ cup tahini
  • cup water
  • ½ lemon juiced
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup

Instructions 

  • In a large salad bowl, combine the lentils, chopped lettuce, red onion, black olives, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
    1 15-ounce canned lentils, 4 cups lettuce, ½ red onion, ½ cup black olives, 1 red bell pepper, 1 cucumber
  • In a separate bowl, add the dressing ingredients and stir well to combine.
    ¼ cup balsamic vinegar, ¼ cup tahini, ⅔ cup water, ½ lemon, 1 teaspoon dijon mustard, 1 clove garlic, 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup
  • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Notes

Leftovers: Store the dressing in a separate container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutrition

Calories: 387kcal | Carbohydrates: 49g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Sodium: 401mg | Potassium: 1047mg | Fiber: 16g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 1911IU | Vitamin C: 63mg | Calcium: 118mg | Iron: 7mg
Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
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I hope you enjoy these HUGE plant-based salads and it helps you appreciate having a salad as the main course!

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