Some December menus benefit from a dish that doesn’t rely on a rich dressing to work well. Here, 13 Christmas salad recipe ideas give you options you can browse depending on the kind of meal you’re putting together. During busy stretches, it’s always easier when at least one side stays uncomplicated. Looking over these ideas makes it simple to pick something that blends into your plans.

Christmas Salad

There’s nothing quite like this Christmas Salad to bring some festive, fresh flair to your holiday table. Its vibrant colors and lively textures make it a must-have centerpiece. Guests will love how it complements heartier dishes while adding a seasonal touch. Perfect for balancing out all those rich holiday meals with a crisp, refreshing bite.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad
Layered Seven Layer Salad

When you serve this Layered Seven Layer Salad, don’t be surprised if it’s the first dish to run out. Each layer brings a different flavor and texture, creating a showstopping look and unbeatable taste. It’s a visual treat that adds a burst of freshness to any gathering. This crowd-pleaser is as fulfilling to look at as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad
Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make

Few dishes bring such a touch of nostalgia as this Waldorf Salad on a holiday table. Its balanced mix of crunch and sweetness keeps it a cherished favorite year after year. Despite its classic roots, it always feels fresh and festive among the crowd. Guests often find themselves grabbing seconds and asking what makes it so memorable.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing

Once you’ve tried this Crunchy Broccoli Salad, you’ll see why it’s a holiday favorite. The crisp broccoli paired with a creamy dressing creates a fulfilling bite that keeps people coming back for more. It’s perfect for lightening up the table next to heavier dishes. Don’t be surprised if this simple salad becomes the star of your spread.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Creamy Dressing
Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

If you need something quick yet impressive, this Easy Caprese Salad might just become your go-to. Its bright colors and simple flavors bring elegance without a lot of effort. It’s ideal when you want something light and fresh to contrast with heartier holiday foods. Best of all, it’s ready in minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy the celebration.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes
Tangy Red Cabbage Coleslaw

If you’re looking for something bold and refreshing, this Tangy Red Cabbage Coleslaw won’t disappoint. Its vibrant deep red color immediately catches attention, while its crisp texture balances richer holiday plates. The unexpected bite of flavor makes it uniquely memorable, an exciting twist on classic coleslaws.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Crisp Honeycrisp Salad

Refresh your holiday table with this Crisp Honeycrisp Salad that feels like the perfect mix of sweet and tart. The irresistible crunch of Honeycrisp apples paired with fresh greens brings a light yet fulfilling side dish to your plate. It’s a seasonal favorite that feels like it was made for holiday dinners. A perfect pairing for all those comforting main courses.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Honeycrisp Salad
Fresh Green Salad

For a classic option that feels timeless, this Fresh Green Salad is just the thing. Its simplicity lets the freshness of the ingredients shine, making it a great addition to any holiday table. It’s versatile enough to pair with any main dish while giving guests a refreshing choice. Never underestimate the power of a perfectly crisp green salad.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Green Salad
Colorful Antipasto Salad

Add a pop of festive color to your meal with this Colorful Antipasto Salad. Loaded with bold flavors, it’s sure to catch eyes and bring plenty of interest to the table. Often, this dish becomes the conversation starter because of its variety of ingredients. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a salad with a bit of everything packed into one bowl.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Salad
Fresh Quinoa Salad

Holiday spreads are always better with a lighter option like this Fresh Quinoa Salad. Its vibrant flavors and textures make it a welcome contrast to heavier dishes. You’ll love how it feels wholesome yet celebratory, perfect for bringing balance to your festive meals. It’s the dish that quietly wins over even the pickiest eaters.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Quinoa Salad
Crunchy Celery Salad

Bring a refreshing crunch to the table with this Crunchy Celery Salad that surprises in the best way possible. Though simple, its texture and flavor make it stand out next to any holiday entrée. It’s a great choice for balancing indulgent plates with something light and fresh. You’ll find it disappears faster than you’d expect.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad
Crisp Cucumber Tomato Salad

Give your guests something light and refreshing with this Crisp Cucumber Tomato Salad. Its clean, simple flavors make it a lovely counterpoint to rich main dishes. The freshness of the ingredients feels like a little escape from heavier options. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest salads can pack the biggest punch at the table.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Cucumber Tomato Salad
Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

The holiday flavors in this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad make it impossible to go unnoticed on your table. Its blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements feels perfectly festive without being overdone. It’s hearty enough to stand as a main or side dish, making it incredibly versatile for holiday meals. Trust me, this one’s going to turn some heads.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
