11 Satisfying Vegan Salads That Will Make You Forget About The Main Dish

If you think salads are just cold lettuce and disappointment, these 11 vegan combinations will throw that thought out the window. They’re bold, unapologetically filling, and somehow manage to do it all without a trace of anything animal. The kind of meals that make the actual “main” question its purpose in life. You’re not going to miss anything—except maybe the usual post-meal nap.

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

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Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Combining soft grains with plant-based protein makes this dish filling without being heavy. Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu brings a balance of hearty and fresh elements together. It’s easy to scoop up with a fork, making it ideal whether you’re at lunch or dinner. Great for anyone looking for something wholesome but not overly complicated.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

There’s something refreshing in every bite of this dish, thanks to its bold and unique combination. Blood Orange and Fennel Salad pairs unexpected textures and flavors that complement each other perfectly. It’s bright, simple, and doesn’t feel like a side dish at all. A great option when you need something light but memorable.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Harvest Salad

Packed with layers that are both crunchy and soft, it’s an easy go-to when you want variety on your plate. Harvest Salad mixes ingredients that feel comforting yet fresh. It’s ideal for anyone looking to add some color and substance to their meal. Whether paired with something else or standing alone, it feels like the perfect balance.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

Cucumber Peanut Salad

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

Cool and crunchy in every bite, this salad brings a simple twist that keeps it interesting. Cucumber Peanut Salad mixes a light and refreshing base with a pleasing crunch. Great for snacking or pairing with larger dishes, you won’t feel like you’re missing anything. It’s casual yet works for almost any meal setting.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Peanut Salad

Indian Onion Salad

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

A quick, fresh option that feels perfect for any time of day. Indian Onion Salad has bold flavors that you can pair with anything—or enjoy it alone. It’s unexpectedly flavorful and definitely not the usual kind of salad. Its simple preparation makes it a great choice when you want something that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Indian Onion Salad

Kachumber

Light and crisp, this salad has a way of making every meal a bit more interesting. Kachumber is fresh and pairs well with anything without feeling overcomplicated. It’s perfect when you want something simple yet versatile. Whether eating with friends or solo, it’s refreshing without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber

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.

Warm, savory, and perfectly filling, this salad feels like it could be the main event. Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad features layers of texture that work so well together. The heartiest option on the list, it’s easy to eat on its own or share with others. It’s the kind of salad that leaves you satisfied every time.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Crunchy and creamy with a straightforward approach that’s always a hit. Easy Vegan Coleslaw is one of those dishes you’ll want to keep handy because it works in so many situations. It’s great as a side or as something to bring to gatherings when you need something quick. Each bite is simple but never boring.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps

Fun and interactive, this salad-meets-wrap option makes meal time a little more engaging. Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps let you fill, wrap, and enjoy at your own pace. It’s lively mix of ingredients feels fresh and works well for groups or solo meals. Easy to customize, it’s great for those who want a little control over what they’re eating.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps

Cabbage Salad

Thinly shredded goodness that pairs nicely with anything or stands well on its own. Cabbage Salad keeps things light while still being substantial. It’s easy to prep and goes with almost anything, making it reliable for meals or gatherings. If you want something hearty but not heavy, this one fits the bill.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad

Spicy Cucumber Salad

Cool freshness with a slight kick, this salad brings something different to the table. Spicy Cucumber Salad balances refreshing simplicity with a bit of heat, making each bite interesting. Perfect for those who like a little spice but don’t want their food to be overwhelming. It’s a quick and easy choice for meals or snacks.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad