I Didn’t Have Time For A Big Meal—Thankfully, 13 Vegan Salads Recipes Fit The Bill

There wasn’t time for a big meal, but skipping food completely wasn’t the plan either, so a lineup of 13 plant-packed salads came through fast. They’re the kind you can eat while pretending to answer emails or nod through another Zoom call. No reheating, no juggling ten utensils—just grab, chew, and keep moving. It’s like multitasking for your stomach with zero conference calls involved.

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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Quinoa Salad

Quinoa works here as a hearty base that fills you up without being too heavy. Quinoa Salad has a mix of textures that makes it feel more than just a quick meal. It’s a solid option when you want something quick, healthy, and not too complicated. There’s no need to overthink it—this one works anytime.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Salad

Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

This isn’t your typical salad—the mix of ingredients makes it fresh and unexpected. Blood Orange and Fennel Salad stands out for its contrast of flavors and textures. It’s light but still feels unique enough to keep things interesting. The balance makes it feel kind of fancy without being hard to throw together.
Get the Recipe: Blood Orange and Fennel Salad

Kachumber

You’ll like how simple and fresh this option is without any fuss. Kachumber keeps things straightforward while still being super refreshing. It’s a great go-to when you’re short on time but still want something to liven up your plate. Plus, it’s super easy to pair with whatever else you’re eating.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber

Cabbage Salad

This one is all about crunch, and it’s great if you want something basic but still good. Cabbage Salad keeps it simple but has enough texture to make it worth choosing. It’s entirely fuss-free and easy to throw together without much effort. Works great on its own or as a side to something heartier.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Salad

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.

A little bit of spice makes this one stand out from other salads. Spicy Cucumber Salad has a cooling yet bold twist that’s easy to enjoy. It’s refreshing while not being boring, so it works when you want a quick boost of flavor. You’ll want to keep it in rotation if you like a bit of a kick.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

This option packs a punch with a mix of plant-based ingredients that feel hearty. Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu offers just the right balance between filling and light. You get a great mix of textures that stops this one from feeling repetitive. It’s a smart pick if you need something quick but still delicious.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Indian Onion Salad

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

It’s simple but packs a bold punch, making it stand out as more than just a side dish. Indian Onion Salad isn’t your everyday salad—it’s sharp and full of bold energy. This one is great for livening up the table with its vibrant personality. Perfect if you’re craving something with a little more edge.
Get the Recipe: Indian Onion Salad

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

This works well if you want something quick and familiar, but without complicated extras. Easy Vegan Coleslaw stays true to its classic roots, but with a lighter twist. It’s simple, crunchy, and won’t take much time to put together. Use it to complement a meal or just have it on its own.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Cucumber Tomato Salad

A bowl of fresh salad with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and herbs, seasoned with black pepper, with a serving spoon. — Cucumber Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A fresh option that’s all about keeping things clean and simple. Cucumber Tomato Salad balances crispness with a straightforward flavor profile. It’s a no-frills pick that’s light but won’t leave you hungry too soon. A good choice if you want something basic but fulfilling enough.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad

Harvest Salad

This is packed with a mix of textures and ingredients that make it feel hearty and filling. Harvest Salad brings variety to the table without being too complicated. It’s perfect for when you want something more substantial without going overboard. Great choice for making a salad feel more like a complete dish.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

Vegan Pasta Salad

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

If you love a pasta-based option, this brings something different compared to leafy salads. Vegan Pasta Salad gives you a mix of heartiness and convenience in one simple bowl. It’s easy to make ahead of time and works both as a main dish and a side. This one’s a win for anyone who likes variety in texture.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Salad

Cucumber Peanut Salad

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

This gives you something crunchy and nutty to keep things interesting. Cucumber Peanut Salad blends a nice balance of crispness with just enough richness. It’s a refreshing pick with just a little twist to make it stand out. Choose this for something light but definitely not dull.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Peanut Salad

Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

This one feels warm and filling thanks to its heartier ingredients. Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad is perfect when you want something plant-based but dense enough to keep you fueled. The mix of roasted and fresh ingredients keeps every bite balanced. Great for when you want a bit more substance without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad