37 Salad Recipes That Will Help You Smash Your Weight Loss Goals! - TrimmedandToned (2024)

When most people think of healthy eating, they think of salads. When they think of salads, they think of boring, wet lettuce, cucumber and boiled chicken, but nothing could be further from the truth.

When it comes to dieting, salads can be your best and most delicious secret weapon. Generally, low in calories, high in protein, delicious and customisable, they can be an everyday staple in your diet. However, don’t underestimate the calories that a salad can pack in! While lettuce has virtually no calories, sometimes the dressings and toppings can really add up!

Here, we have collected 37 incredible, delicious, weight loss salads from some amazing food blogs that will get you dropping pounds in no time! As always save and share your favourites and get started today!

37 Salad Recipes That Will Help You Smash Your Weight Loss Goals!

Chicken Caeser Pasta Salad

“I love this salad for many reasons. It’s super easy to whip up, healthy and packed with flavor. I love the homemade caesar dressing that comes with this recipe.” Recipe: LifeInTheLoftHouse.

Grilled Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad

“This Grilled Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad recipe is as closest to perfect as you can get! Full of Mediterranean flavours: olives, tomatoes, cucumber, avocados, and chicken for a complete meal in a salad bowl!” Recipe: CafeDelites.

Asian Vermicelli Salad With Peanuts

“This Asian vermicelli salad with crushed peanuts is pretty much what we’ve been living on for the entire summer. As its still pretty hot here (so much so that I’m planning to top up my tan on Saturday, yay!), I’m not about to stop making it just yet so I thought I would share this simple recipe with you. It’s easy and quick to make and really flexible.” Recipe: LazyCatKitchen.

BBQ Chicken Salad

“I think it’s safe to say this is my favorite salad ever. It is beyond delicious. The flavors and textures were just meant to be. Grilled chicken, barbecue sauce, black beans, corn and crunchy tortilla strips… Oh, and lettuce. Don’t forget the lettuce. This is a salad after all and it’s a party on a plate.” Recipe: LifeInTheLoftHouse.

BLT Pasta Salad

“Oh it’s so good. It’s like a BLT sandwich, without the bread, broken down into one heck of a pasta salad. The original recipe calls for mayo. You all know I despise mayo, so I replaced it with ranch dressing.” Recipe: LifeInTheLoftHouse.

Avocado Chickpea Tuna Salad

“Healthy and filling, this Tuna Salad is not only packed with amazing flavours, it is ALSO a bowl full of protein, fibre and healthy fats! Have it for lunch or dinner, as a side or main dish, this tuna salad is especially perfect in hunger emergencies.” Recipe: CafeDelites.

Honey Dijon Apple Bacon Cranberry Salad

“Honey Dijon Apple Bacon Cranberry Salad screams FALL! Cranberries, Spinach, Walnuts And BACON! All drizzled with the most perfect Honey Dijon Dressing!” Recipe: CafeDelites.

California Pasta Salad

“This CALIFORNIA PASTA SALAD is a great example. No oven required for this AMAZING salad. I served it at a small barbecue we had Saturday night and it was a hit. It is fresh, healthy and packed with flavor. All of my favorite veggies are inside this delicious bowl of yum.” Recipe: LifeInTheLoftHouse.

Spinach Bacon Salad With Cheddar Crisps (Low Carb, Gluten-Free)

“This delicious spinach bacon salad recipe is brimming with crunchy cheddar cheese crisps, crisp spinach, juicy tomatoes, and smoky bacon dijon dressing.” Recipe: WholesomeYum.

Tex Mex Chicken Chopped Salad

“This Tex-Mex salad contains lots of yummy things. Crunchy romaine lettuce, corn, black beans, tomatoes, green onion and of course grilled chicken. I like to cook up small bite-size pieces of chicken seasoned with just salt and pepper. Then throw them in at the very last while they’re still a little warm. Then I toss it all together with the heavenly taco-flavored ranch dressing.” Recipe: LifeInTheLoftHouse.

Big Mac Salad – Cheeseburger Salad (Low Carb, Gluten-Free)

“This easy low carb Big Mac salad recipe is ready in just 20 minutes! A gluten-free, keto cheeseburger salad like this makes a healthy lunch or dinner.” Recipe: WholesomeYum.

Salmon Kale Superfood Salad Recipe With Creamy Lemon Vinaigrette

“Easy sweet kale superfood salad with lemon vinaigrette, smoked salmon and avocado is like a better Costco kale salad. 5 ingredients, plus 5 in the dressing!” Recipe: WholesomeYum.

Easy Broccoli Cranberry Salad Recipe With Bacon And Walnuts

“Even if you know how to make broccoli salad with bacon, this broccoli cranberry salad recipe is a must-try. It has the best broccoli salad dressing!” Recipe: WholesomeYum.

BLT Stuffed Avocado (Paleo, Low Carb)

“This BLT stuffed avocado recipe makes a perfect lunch or snack. It’s naturally healthy, low carb, paleo, and gluten-free.” Recipe: WholesomeYum.

Herb Roasted Vegetable Panzanella Fall Salad

“This Roasted Vegetable Panzanella Fall Salad is the perfect Autumn dish to keep you nourished all season. Herb roasted Fall Vegetables, leafy greens, gluten free ancient grain bread, pomegranate, and toasted hazelnuts. It’s a wholesome Fall salad you’ll want to make again and again. Dairy free, simple to make.” Recipe: CotterCrunch.

Chinese Chicken Salad

“Okay, now we need to talk about this salad. This CHINESE CHICKEN SALAD! I made this for dinner a few days before my surgery and we just loved it. Shredded carrots, green onion, red cabbage over a bed of romaine lettuce. Then you top it with the most delicious chicken and Chinese dressing. Yummers. It has so much flavor in every bite!” Recipe: LifeInTheLoftHouse.

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta Salad

“Bruschetta chicken pasta salad is a must make for any occasion! with italian seasoned grilled chicken and a good kick of garlic and parmesan cheese, this is one pasta salad that will impress!” Recipe: CafeDelites.

Avocado Corn Tomato Salad

“Avocado corn tomato salad with a lime juice dressing is delicious served on its own, or as a side that easily pairs with anything on your plate!” Recipe: CafeDelites.

Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad

“Lemon herb mediterranean pasta salad is loaded with fresh mediterranean inspired salad ingredients, and drizzled with an incredible lemon herb dressing!” Recipe: CafeDelites.

Grilled Chicken Cobb Caeser Salad

“Chicken Caesar salad is hands down one of the most popular and loved salads around the world. So is a good Cobb salad. Merging two into one? EVEN BETTER! Grilled Chicken Cobb Caesar Salad coming at you in 10…9….8….” Recipe: CafeDelites.

Low Carb Caesar Salad With Parmesan Crisps & Chicken (Gluten-Free)

“This delicious low carb Caesar salad features crunchy parmesan crisps, chicken, and creamy homemade Caesar dressing. Just 10 ingredients including dressing!” Recipe: WholesomeYum.

Rainbow Salad With Pomegranate Vinaigrette (Paleo, Low Carb)

“This easy and healthy rainbow salad recipe with pomegranate vinaigrette is so quick to make. Only 10 ingredients including the dressing!” Recipe: WholesomeYum.

Thai Cauliflower Rice Salad With Creamy Avocado Dressing

“Thai Cauliflower Rice Salad is packed full of flavor, spice, and made easy! Thai spices mixed into a carrot cauliflower rice salad with avocado cream dressing! Paleo, Vegan, and made in under 30 minutes. Perfect as is or with a protein of choice. Simple, wholesome, healthy! Whole 30 friendly. ” Recipe: CotterCrunch.

Creamy Mustard Brussels Sprouts Superfood Salad

“Creamy Mustard Brussels Sprouts Salad! A pan fried Brussel Sprouts superfood dish tossed in a vegan creamy mustard sauce. Quick to make, packed with fiber, healthy fats, and nourishment! A healthy paleo side dish to add to your table. ” Recipe: CotterCrunch.

Thai Chicken Meatball Salad

“This is not just any salad. well, definitely not for the faint hearted. a thai chicken meatball salad full of thai-inspired flavours, both healthy and filling and perfect for lunch or dinner.” Recipe: CafeDelites.

Blackened Shrimp Asparagus And Avocado Salad

“Blackened shrimp, asparagus and avocado salad with lemon pepper yogurt dressing. This is the perfect salad done in less than 10 minutes! Low fat AND low in carbs, but full of creamy, spicy flavours!” Recipe: CafeDelites.

Loaded Leftover Turkey Nachos Salad Bowl

“Loaded Leftover Turkey Nachos Salad Bowls! Put those leftovers to use with a healthy leftover Turkey Nachos Salad recipe. Loaded with roasted turkey, jalapeños, seasonal vegetables like sweet potatoes, blue corn tortilla chips, and a dairy free friendly salsa con queso topping! Wholesome, easy to make, and delicious!” Recipe: CotterCrunch.

Spicy Shrimp Caesar Spinach Salad

“Spicy shrimp Caesar Spinach salad is a quick light meal for lunch or dinner! The spicy shrimp and kickin’ homemade Caesar dressing is key to making this salad shine! Tender shrimp tossed in chile powder, onion, and cayenne then baked crispy! A flavorful and healthy Protein-Rich Salad! Paleo option if needed!” Recipe: CotterCrunch.

Southwestern Chicken Salad With A Low Fat Creamy Dressing

“Put a spin on a southwestern salad with this chili lime southwestern chicken salad with a low fat and creamy cilantro chili lime dressing that doubles as your marinade!” Recipe: CafeDelites.

Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Salad

“Teriyaki glazed chicken salad complete with avocado, cucumbers and carrots for real sushi lovers! drizzled with an incredibly easy teriyaki dressing that doubles as a marinade!” Recipe: CafeDelites.

Cajun Smoked Salmon Zucchini Noodles Salad

“A kickin Smoked Salmon Zucchini Noodles salad makes for a perfect no cook meal! Just what we need for Summer, yes? Or anytime really! A zippy cajun sauce tossed in chopped vegetables and zucchini noodles then topped with peppery smoked salmon. It’s TO DIE FOR! Paleo, low carb, and Real food deliciousness!” Recipe: CotterCrunch.

Dill Pesto Potato Wedge Salad

“This Dill Pesto Potato Wedge Salad makes a great healthy side dish for your next barbecue or gathering! A crunchy wedge salad and creamy potato salad all packed into one then tossed a zippy dill pesto sauce. It’s gluten free, paleo/vegan friendly, and super easy to make.” Recipe: CotterCrunch.

Paleo Spicy Tuna Spiralized Spring Vegetables Salad

“A Paleo Spicy Tuna Spiralized Spring Vegetables Salad ready in 10 minutes! Spiralized Spring Vegetables never looked so good! Omega Rich Tuna mixed with spiralized vegetables in a chili garlic sauce. Low carb and Whole 30 friendly too. Kickin’ off the month of May easy peasy!” Recipe: CotterCrunch.

Salmon And Avocado Caeser Salad

“Here comes my confession: I love Caesar Salad. And what I love more than a good caesar salad, is a twist on the traditional. Remember the Skinny Chicken and Avocado Caesar Salad I shared a few months ago? Well, this is like that…but better.” Recipe: CafeDelites.

Easy Oriental Chicken Bok Choy Mason Jar Salads

“Easy Oriental Chicken Bok Choy Mason Jar Salads! Light, Gluten Free, and Paleo friendly oriental style mason jar salads that are great for lunch or dinners on the go! Perfect use of leftover vegetables and grilled or stir fried chicken as well. Portable Healthy lunches just got easy. ” Recipe: CotterCrunch.

Broccoli Slaw Salad With Blueberries & Yoghurt

“Broccoli Slaw Salad with Blueberries is tart and creamy, and packed with antioxidants and probiotics! The tang comes from using a kefir yogurt blend; no mayo needed! Which also makes it healthy and gut friendly. Super clean eating recipe with great flavor! ” Recipe: CotterCrunch.

Apple, Bacon & Gorgonzola Salad with Sweet Balsamic Vinaigrette

“This salad is a new favorite of mine and I believe will become yours too! Slices of apple, crispy bacon and Gorgonzola cheese are among some of the deliciousness inside. Of course the dressing always makes that final touch and this Sweet Balsamic Vinaigrette does just that.” Recipe: LifeInTheLoftHouse.

37 Salad Recipes That Will Help You Smash Your Weight Loss Goals! - TrimmedandToned (2024)

FAQs

Which type of salad is best for weight loss? ›

Based on these tips, some of the best salads for weight loss are:
  • Spinach and strawberry salad with poppy seed dressing. This salad is refreshing and easy to make, with tender spinach, crunchy almonds and juicy berries. ...
  • Green goddess salad with chicken. ...
  • Cucumber and avocado salad. ...
  • Hoisin-sesame salad with baked tofu.
Nov 4, 2023

What not to put in a salad for weight loss? ›

But add-ons like tortilla strips, cheese, croutons, candied nuts and bacon bits can negate the whole point of eating a salad for health and weight-loss reasons, Burak says.

What is the best lettuce for weight loss? ›

If you're looking for one of the lowest-calorie vegetables, romaine lettuce has only 8 calories per cup. The downside is that it is pretty low in fiber too, with just 1 g per cup. But it's a great "catch-all" vegetable, says registered dietitian Jennifer Fiske, M.S., RDN, LD.

What is the healthiest salad you can eat? ›

10 Nutrient-Dense Salad Recipes
  • Low-Carb Asian Chopped Salad.
  • Spicy Shrimp, Avocado, and Arugula Salad.
  • Tofu and Kale Salad.
  • Pear, Grape, and Feta Salad.
  • Mediterranean Chicken Salad.
  • Blood Orange and Quinoa Kale Salad.
  • Golden Beet and Pomegranate Salad.
  • Roasted Chickpea and Kale Salad.
Jul 20, 2021

Is it OK to eat salad every day for weight loss? ›

Can you lose weight by eating a salad every day? "Eating salads on a daily basis as part of an overall healthy lifestyle may support gradual weight loss over time," says Karnatz. "This is because leafy greens are low in calories and high in volume and fiber, which will keep you satisfied for longer," she adds.

Can I lose weight if I eat 3 salads a day? ›

You might lose weight as a result of eating fewer unhealthy foods. One of the reasons why salad is considered a healthy choice when you're aiming to maintain your weight or shed pounds is that they are usually chock-full of fiber—which is considered to be helpful in aiding with weight loss.

What is the unhealthiest salad? ›

Worst: Iceberg Wedge Salad

Thanks to the blue cheese or ranch dressing and bacon crumbles, it can pack in four times the fat of a T-bone steak. It also falls short in the nutrition department. That's because iceberg lettuce contains fewer vitamins and minerals than most dark leafy greens.

What is the unhealthiest salad dressing? ›

Caesar dressing. Made up of mayonnaise, cheese, salt and oil (and all too often, anchovies), Caesar tends to be one of the least healthy options out there. Those ingredients cause it to be high in both saturated fats and sodium.

Can I eat salad to lose belly fat? ›

Salads are loaded with fibres, and when you add a good amount of fibre in your daily meal plan, it can definitely target your belly fat and help it move away faster.

Does cucumber help in weight loss? ›

It's high in beneficial nutrients, as well as certain plant compounds and antioxidants that may help treat and even prevent some conditions. Also, cucumbers are low in calories and contain a good amount of water and soluble fiber, making them ideal for promoting hydration and aiding in weight loss.

How to eat cabbage for weight loss? ›

If you want to lose weight, then consuming cabbage can prove to be beneficial for you. You can include cabbage juice, soup, boiled vegetables or chaat in your diet. But remember that cabbage should be consumed only after washing it thoroughly.

What salad has no nutritional value? ›

Iceberg lettuce can be used just like butter lettuce (as a salad, on top of a sandwich, or as a bread replacement),” says Kennedy. “I don't usually recommend iceberg lettuce because there's not much nutritional value to it — I usually tell people to just have a glass of water instead.”

What is the healthiest lettuce to eat? ›

Romaine lettuce: This lettuce is high in nutritional content. A traditional salad base, romaine lettuce contains healthy amounts of the minerals magnesium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus. It also has high amounts of beta-carotene and vitamin K.

How big should a salad be for weight loss? ›

Vegetables/salad

Simply aiming for two to three cups of salad and/or vegetables at both lunch and dinner is the easiest way to cut calories, bump up the nutrient content of your diet and lose weight.

What are the lowest calorie vegetables for salad? ›

Which vegetables are lowest in calories?
Food NameCaloriesServing
iceberg lettuce14100 g
zucchini15100 g
cucumber15100 g
radish16100 g
31 more rows
Jan 2, 2018

Is Cucumber good for you to lose weight? ›

It's high in beneficial nutrients, as well as certain plant compounds and antioxidants that may help treat and even prevent some conditions. Cucumbers are also low in calories and contain a good amount of water and soluble fiber, making them ideal for promoting hydration and aiding in weight loss.

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