14+ Easy Salad Recipes for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is not just about turkey and stuffing; it’s a celebration of flavors that come together in perfect harmony. Imagine impressing your guests with vibrant salads that add color and freshness to your holiday table.

Cranberry Pecan Spinach Salad

Cranberry Pecan Spinach Salad

Cranberry Pecan Spinach Salad from Taste of Home

Rating: 5. Total Time: 10 min.

Apple Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans and Feta

Apple Spinach Salad with Candied Pecans and Feta from Peas and Crayons

Rating: 5. Total Time: 15 min.

Cranberry Pecan Spinach Salad

Cranberry Pecan Spinach Salad from Sweet Spicy Kitchen

Total Time: 10 min.

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This salad is a delightful mix of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors that will complement any Thanksgiving feast. Fresh spinach leaves serve as the base, mingling with dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.

What makes this salad stand out is the homemade vinaigrette made from apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of honey. It ties all the flavors together, making each bite an explosion of taste. The mix of textures, from the crunch of the pecans to the creaminess of the feta, ensures this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare—perfect for a busy holiday.

Harvest Butternut Squash Salad

Thanksgiving Salad

Thanksgiving Salad from Dinner at the Zoo

Rating: 5. Total Time: 16 min.

Favorite Green Salad with Apples, Cranberries and Pepitas

Favorite Green Salad with Apples, Cranberries and Pepitas from Cookie and Kate

Rating: 5. Total Time: 10 min.

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This warm salad is a heartwarming addition to your Thanksgiving spread. Roasted butternut squash is paired with crisp arugula, pomegranate seeds, and a handful of walnuts. The sweet, earthy flavor of the squash complements the peppery arugula beautifully.

What sets this salad apart is the pomegranate dressing, which adds a burst of tanginess. It’s not only a feast for the palate but also pleasing to the eyes with its vivid colors. The combination of warm and cold elements is comforting and satisfying, making it a favorite among those who crave something a little different on their holiday table.

Autumn Apple and Cheddar Salad

Fall Apple Salad with Cheddar, Candied Pecans and Balsamic Vinaigrette

Fall Apple Salad with Cheddar, Candied Pecans and Balsamic Vinaigrette from Completely Delicious

Rating: 5. Total Time: 15 min.

Fall Salad With Apples, Cheddar and Crispy Sage

Fall Salad With Apples, Cheddar and Crispy Sage from NYT Cooking – The New York Times

Rating: 5. Total Time: 25 min.

Autumn Lover's Kale Apple Salad with Cinnamon Cider Vinaigrette

Autumn Lover's Kale Apple Salad with Cinnamon Cider Vinaigrette from Plays Well With Butter

Rating: 5. Total Time: 20 min.

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Bringing together the crispness of fall apples and the sharpness of cheddar, this salad is a celebration of autumn flavors. Tossed with mixed greens and a sprinkling of toasted almonds, this dish offers a delightful crunch in every bite.

What really makes this salad shine is the homemade maple mustard dressing. The sweetness of maple syrup combined with the tang of mustard creates a flavor profile that’s both unique and unforgettable. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the best of the season, leaving your taste buds dancing with joy.

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Balsamic

Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Balsamic from Love and Lemons

Rating: 5. Total Time: 1 h 15 min.

Roasted Beet Salad with Walnuts, Goat Cheese & Honey-Dijon Vinaigrette

Roasted Beet Salad with Walnuts, Goat Cheese & Honey-Dijon Vinaigrette from Once Upon a Chef

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 20 min.

Roasted Beetroot, Goats Cheese & Walnut Salad

Roasted Beetroot, Goats Cheese & Walnut Salad from The Cook's Pyjamas

Rating: 5.

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Roasted beets are the star of this vibrant salad, offering a sweet and earthy base. Paired with creamy goat cheese and peppery arugula, this dish is as flavorful as it is colorful. A sprinkle of pistachios adds a delightful crunch that ties everything together.

The balsamic glaze drizzled on top is what elevates this salad to a whole new level. Its rich, tangy flavor enhances the natural sweetness of the beets, creating a perfectly balanced dish. Easy to prepare yet sophisticated, it’s a salad that will have your guests talking long after Thanksgiving is over.

Quinoa and Sweet Potato Salad

Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad

Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad from Chelsea's Messy Apron

Rating: 5. Total Time: 50 min.

Quinoa Sweet Potato Salad

Quinoa Sweet Potato Salad from Pinch of Yum

Rating: 4.7.

Sweet Potato and Quinoa Salad

Sweet Potato and Quinoa Salad from Delish Knowledge

Rating: 5. Total Time: 45 min.

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This hearty salad is a wholesome addition to any Thanksgiving meal. Nutty quinoa forms the base, mingling with roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and a handful of fresh cilantro. The flavors are earthy and satisfying, offering a tasty alternative for those looking for something nutritious.

A hint of lime juice gives this salad a refreshing twist, while cumin and paprika add a touch of warmth. It’s a versatile dish that can be served warm or cold, making it a convenient option for holiday gatherings. The combination of protein-packed quinoa and sweet potatoes makes it not only delicious but also filling, perfect for a festive meal.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Thanksgiving Salads

Thanksgiving Salad

Thanksgiving Salad from Dinner at the Zoo

Rating: 5. Total Time: 16 min.

Favorite Green Salad with Apples, Cranberries and Pepitas

Favorite Green Salad with Apples, Cranberries and Pepitas from Cookie and Kate

Rating: 5. Total Time: 10 min.

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Play with Textures

Mixing different textures can transform a simple salad into a culinary masterpiece. Combine crunchy nuts with creamy cheeses, or mix roasted vegetables with fresh greens to keep each bite exciting.

Balance the Flavors

For a truly memorable salad, make sure to balance sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. A touch of honey in the dressing can balance out bitter greens, while a sprinkle of salt can enhance the sweetness of roasted vegetables.

Make It Ahead

Thanksgiving can be a hectic time, so prepare your salads ahead of time. Dress them just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp, ensuring your salads are as tasty as they are beautiful.