9 Vegan Winter Salad Recipes That Feel Right Once January Settles In

Salads aren’t just for warm weather, and 9 vegan winter options help add something new to the colder season’s menus. Meal planning is much simpler when you’ve got choices that actually fit the time of year. Busy schedules and relaxed weekends both benefit from dishes that bridge comfort and freshness. Everyone can appreciate having a few reliable ideas ready for January.

A close-up of seaweed salad with sesame seeds on a red plate, with chopsticks picking up a portion. — Seaweed Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

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Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

A salad with arugula, roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and a drizzle of creamy dressing on a white plate. — Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Hearty winter staples get a lighter touch in this Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad. Warm, earthy flavors and a hint of crunch invite friends to keep coming back for more. I share this dish at group lunches since guests appreciate the color and comfort. Everyone enjoys the balance between cozy satisfaction and fresh veggies.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

Fresh Vegan Pasta Salad

A wooden bowl filled with bowtie pasta mixed with roasted zucchini, carrots, tomatoes, and herbs. — Fresh Vegan Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Chilly days deserve something bright, so this Fresh Vegan Pasta Salad always makes the menu. Colorful vegetables and tender pasta create an inviting contrast to heavier winter foods. I whip up extra because leftovers make the next day’s lunch a breeze. The combination is light yet still filling, which keeps energy up all season.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Vegan Pasta Salad

Cabbage Salad

Crisp cabbage takes center stage in this Cabbage Salad, offering crunch and tang that pair well with cold-weather meals. Its bold flavors and simple preparation are great for busy families. I reach for this recipe anytime the dinner table needs a refreshing boost. The bowl tends to empty quickly thanks to the vibrant taste.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad

Fresh Harvest Salad

A Harvest Salad with kale, sweet potato wedges, avocado chunks, chickpeas, and pickled red onions, all drizzled with a delectable dressing. — Fresh Harvest Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Winter’s best greens combine with colorful toppings in this Fresh Harvest Salad to deliver brightness at any meal. The appealing mix brings a sense of celebration even during the frostiest months. I serve it for lunches or light dinners when heavier options aren’t needed. Guests seem to appreciate the lively flavors every time.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Harvest Salad

Crunchy Celery Salad

A bowl filled with chopped celery, red onion, apples, almonds, and fresh herbs. — Crunchy Celery Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Snappy celery and flavorful extras transform this Crunchy Celery Salad into a favorite side when chilly weather settles in. The clean crunch wakes up a tired palate after weeks of warm comfort food. I prep it in advance for potlucks and lunches. Extra servings are common whenever something this crisp is available.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Celery Salad

Fresh Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

A close-up of a pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, black olives, red onions, and seasonings in a white bowl. — Fresh Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Warmed grilled veggies meet cool pasta in this Fresh Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad, making winter meals both hearty and light. The smoky flavors spark plenty of conversations at the table. I bring it to gatherings for a fresh side that stands out. Not a crumb remains as soon as the plates get passed around.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Tangy Chickpea Salad with Roasted Peppers

A plate of chickpea salad with chopped red onions, roasted red peppers, herbs, and sliced almonds, served with a spoon. — Tangy Chickpea Salad with Roasted Peppers. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Roasted peppers nestled in chickpeas give this Tangy Chickpea Salad with Roasted Peppers big flavor for winter afternoons. Guests often comment on how lively and colorful it appears on the table. I find it useful for healthy lunches that never feel boring. Requests for the recipe tend to follow once everyone tries a spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Chickpea Salad with Roasted Peppers

Fresh Vegan Pasta Primavera

A colorful pasta salad with fusilli, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, peas, red onion, zucchini, and fresh basil leaves is served on a blue plate. — Fresh Vegan Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bringing a burst of green to cold months, this Fresh Vegan Pasta Primavera stays popular for its bright taste and light feel. Veggies shine when you want something more cheerful amidst hearty meals. I place this recipe on rotation as soon as January arrives. Friends come back asking how it tastes so fresh in the middle of winter.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Vegan Pasta Primavera

Seaweed Salad

A hint of ocean flavor stands out in this Seaweed Salad while managing to stay light on cold days. The gentle chew and savory finish make it a conversation piece at any meal. I serve it as a unique side that people often try with curiosity. Lively texture keeps salad bowls interesting all winter long.
Get the Recipe: Seaweed Salad