11 No-Brainer Salads to Make Right Now

Don't overthink it, OK?

Published Dec 24, 2015

Homemade salads: If they’re simple, they feel dull. If they’re complicated, they feel daunting. Here, 11 that perfectly toe the line--easy to make yet more exciting than your basic Caesar.

Tuscan Kale + Farro + Sweet Potato + Feta

A base of raw kale and chewy, nutty farro gets a sweet and tangy kick.

Pair it with: Simple lemon dressing

Shredded Brussels Sprouts + Almonds + Cranberry + Bacon + Pecorino Romano

This autumn-themed salad calls for raw, thinly sliced Brussels.

Pair it with: Easy, homemade citrus vinaigrette

Arugula + Beets + Apple + Walnuts + Goat Cheese

A fresh take on the classic Waldorf.

Pair it with: Warm Dijon vinaigrette

Napa Cabbage + Carrot + Scallion + Rotisserie Chicken + Cashews

You can julienne the veggies or just chop ‘em.

Pair it with: Sesame-ginger vinaigrette

Frisée + Poached Egg + Red Onion + Croutons + Bacon

Add some homemade croutons for a little extra crunch.

Pair it with: Warm bacon vinaigrette

Arugula + Quinoa + Roasted Carrot + Avocado

Grains and avocados make for a salad that’ll keep you full till dinner.

Pair it with: Sesame-miso dressing

Romaine + Grilled Shrimp + Avocado + Corn + Tomato

Transport yourself to someplace warm.

Pair it with: Cilantro lime vinaigrette

Little Gem Lettuce + Avocado + Cherry Tomato + Bacon

Like a wedge salad, just more ladylike.

Pair it with: Creamy blue cheese dressing

Escarole + Celery + Pear + Hazelnuts + Blue Cheese

On its own, escarole tastes bitter, but topped with sweet pear and buttery hazelnuts, it’s seriously satisfying.

Pair it with: Mustard and shallot vinaigrette

Shredded Kale + Wild Rice + Butternut Squash + Craisins + Feta

So hearty, so winter-appropriate.

Pair it with: Simple balsamic vinaigrette

Arugula + Fennel + Grapefruit + Avocado

Speaking of winter, there’s no better time to be cooking with citrus.

Pair it with: Citrus dressing