11 Plant-Based Salads That Are Light, Fresh, and Surprisingly Filling

Think salads are just sad lettuce and air? These 11 plant-based salads will shut that down fast. They’re light enough not to drag you down but weirdly filling in a way that makes you question everything. Great for lunch, dinner, or when you’re pretending to be healthy before dessert. You’ll be full, happy, and slightly smug—just how a salad should leave you.

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.

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Spicy Cucumber Salad

Close-up of sliced cucumbers garnished with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and red chili flakes. — Spicy Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re someone who enjoys a bit of kick with their greens, Spicy Cucumber Salad won’t disappoint. It mixes freshness with a spicy twist, creating a refreshing option for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their meal. This salad proves that simple ingredients can pack a punch. It’s light but also has enough kick to wake up your palate.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu is a real game changer for anyone looking for a fulfilling meal without the heaviness. It’s packed with nutrients and offers a satisfying meal option without relying on meat. The texture combination will keep every bite interesting. Plus, it’s an easy way to introduce more plant-based meals into your routine.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

For a unique mix of ingredients, Blood Orange and Fennel Salad stands out. It combines distinct flavors and textures for a genuinely refreshing experience. This salad is perfect for those who love trying new flavor combinations. Each bite offers a fresh taste sensation that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Cabbage Salad

Knowing what’s for lunch just got easier with Cabbage Salad. It’s light, it’s fresh, and you’ll be surprised how it keeps you full until dinner. You won’t miss the meat with all the textures going on in this dish. And best of all, it’s a snap to toss together on a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Ever needed a side that just completes a meal without fuss? Easy Vegan Coleslaw is your go-to, especially when traditional options feel like a heavy commitment. It’s comforting in its simplicity but doesn’t skimp on character. You’ll find it works with nearly everything and it’s ready in a jiffy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Cucumber Peanut Salad

A bowl of chopped cucumber salad mixed with nuts and fresh herbs. — Cucumber Peanut Salad. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

With a crunch that’s undeniably moreish, Cucumber Peanut Salad takes an unconventional approach to salad dining. This dish pairs lightness with a nutty twist, ideal for those who prefer their greens with an extra bite. Its refreshing nature is matched by a robust texture, ensuring you’re well-fed without feeling stuffed. Quick prep time meets nutritional value in this crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Peanut Salad

Harvest Salad

Your plate will beam with the bounty of the garden when you opt for a Harvest Salad. It’s a blend that showcases how a variety of components can come together harmoniously. The dish isn’t just about eating right; it’s about enjoying a medley of natural goodness. It consistently impresses, whether served at casual get-togethers or as part of your regular meal lineup.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

Indian Onion Salad

A bowl of red onion and cilantro salad on a table. — Indian Onion Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes you want something with a bit of zing, and Indian Onion Salad delivers without going overboard. It’s refreshing in a way that makes you feel bright and focused after lunch, not sluggish. Think of it as a quick trip to somewhere exciting without leaving your kitchen. Plus, it’s seriously no sweat to put together.
Get the Recipe: Indian Onion Salad

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps

If you’re looking for a meal that feels indulgent but is actually on the lighter side, Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps are it. They’ve got a punch of flavor without the heaviness of traditional wraps. It’s like a mini fiesta with every bite, and your body will thank you for the nutrient boost. They come together fast, making them a perfect pick for a hectic day.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps.

Kachumber

Kachumber brings a refreshing change of pace to any meal, no heavy ingredients to be found. It’s bright, it’s fresh, and it’s a welcome addition when you need something straightforward yet interesting. The simplicity of the dish is its strength, offering a clean palate experience. Plus, it’s easy as pie to throw together at the last minute.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber

Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

Let’s cut to the chase; Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad is hearty without being a gut-bomb. Roasting brings out a natural sweetness while keeping everything nutritious. This is what you reach for when you need something both substantial and wholesome. And prep? It’s nothing complicated, I promise.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad