Thanksgiving dinners are often filled with rich and heavy dishes, but salads bring a refreshing balance to the table. They add color, crunch, and seasonal flavors that complement traditional foods like turkey, stuffing, and potatoes.
From hearty grain salads to crisp fruit bowls, these recipes highlight autumn ingredients like squash, apples, cranberries, and pomegranates. Salads are also versatile—you can make them light or filling, simple or elaborate.
They’re easy to prepare ahead of time, making holiday planning less stressful. This collection of 31 Thanksgiving salad recipes mixes classics with creative twists, so you’ll have plenty of inspiration.
Whether you want something leafy, fruity, or grain-based, these salads are festive, delicious, and sure to brighten your table. Let’s explore the best ideas for fresh, seasonal Thanksgiving salads.
1. Butternut Squash Salad
Butternut squash salad is full of autumn flavor. Roasted squash cubes are combined with greens, pomegranate seeds, and goat cheese, then drizzled with a cumin-date dressing. It’s colorful, hearty, and delicious.
This salad is festive and feels special without being complicated. It’s a wonderful way to include squash in your Thanksgiving menu in a fresh and creative style.
2. Waldorf Salad
Waldorf salad is a timeless recipe with apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts tossed in a creamy dressing. It’s crunchy, sweet, and refreshing, offering a lighter contrast to heavy Thanksgiving foods.
This salad has been popular for decades and still feels special at holiday meals. Simple to make and always delicious, Waldorf salad is a classic that never goes out of style.
3. Lentil Salad with Herbs
Lentil salad is hearty, earthy, and healthy. Cooked lentils are tossed with herbs, vegetables, and lemon dressing for a fresh taste. It’s high in protein and fiber, making it both filling and nutritious.
This salad can be served warm or cold, and it pairs well with Thanksgiving classics. A wholesome dish that adds depth and variety to the holiday spread.
4. Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a well-loved favorite. Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and parmesan cheese are coated in creamy Caesar dressing. It’s simple, satisfying, and a crowd-pleaser at any table.
Though not fall-specific, its familiarity makes it a dependable option for Thanksgiving. Guests will love this fresh and flavorful salad alongside traditional side dishes, balancing out heavier foods with a crisp bite.
5. Roasted Pumpkin Panzanella Salad
Panzanella salad gets a fall twist with roasted pumpkin. Mixed with bread cubes, greens, and a tangy dressing, it’s hearty and satisfying. The pumpkin adds sweetness, while the bread soaks up all the flavors. This salad is unique, flavorful, and festive. It’s a creative way to use seasonal produce and bring something special to your Thanksgiving table.
6. Pear Spinach Salad with Cranberry-Orange Vinaigrette
This pear spinach salad is fresh and fruity. Sweet pears, dried cranberries, and crunchy nuts are layered over tender spinach. A cranberry-orange vinaigrette ties it all together, making it festive and flavorful.
The balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes this salad stand out. It’s light, colorful, and perfect for adding variety to a Thanksgiving table filled with hearty dishes.
7. Rainbow Pasta Salad
Rainbow pasta salad adds color and freshness to your table. Pasta is mixed with vegetables like bell peppers and cucumbers, then topped with feta cheese for tang.
A light dressing pulls everything together. This salad is vibrant, simple, and versatile, making it perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. It’s a refreshing option that balances heavier foods with something cool and crunchy.
8. Winter Fruit Salad
Winter fruit salad highlights seasonal produce like apples, oranges, and pomegranates. A honey-citrus dressing ties everything together. This salad is colorful, refreshing, and naturally sweet, making it a nice contrast to rich Thanksgiving dishes.
It’s quick to prepare and loved by both kids and adults. A festive way to bring brightness and freshness to the holiday table.
9. Farro Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Farro salad combines nutty grains with roasted vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing. It’s hearty, healthy, and packed with seasonal flavor. The roasted veggies add warmth and sweetness, while the farro provides texture.
This salad is easy to make ahead and serve at room temperature. It’s an earthy, colorful dish that feels festive and complements the richness of Thanksgiving entrees.
10. Mixed Berry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Mixed berry salad is sweet, tangy, and refreshing. Fresh berries are combined with greens, nuts, and a creamy poppy seed dressing. It’s colorful and delicious, offering a light option among heavier dishes.
Though not seasonal, it’s a versatile salad that works for any occasion. Guests will enjoy its bright flavors and vibrant appearance at your Thanksgiving gathering.
11. Balela Salad
Balela salad is a Middle Eastern-inspired dish made with chickpeas, tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil. It’s colorful, zesty, and packed with protein. The flavors are bright and refreshing, making it a great side for Thanksgiving.
This salad is easy to make, healthy, and a nice change of pace from creamy or heavy dishes. It adds variety and global flair to your holiday meal.
12. Chickpea Avocado Salad
Chickpea avocado salad is creamy, fresh, and filling. Chickpeas provide protein, while avocado adds richness. Tossed with vegetables and lemon dressing, it’s light but satisfying.
This salad is quick to prepare and makes a healthy option for Thanksgiving. It’s versatile, flavorful, and a nice break from traditional heavy foods. A great choice for guests looking for something fresh.
13. Thanksgiving Kale Salad
Kale takes center stage in this hearty salad. Combined with apples, cranberries, goat cheese, and roasted chickpeas, it’s full of flavor and texture. The bold greens balance perfectly with sweet and tangy toppings, while a light balsamic dressing ties it all together.
This salad feels seasonal, colorful, and festive, making it a wonderful side dish to complement heavier Thanksgiving favorites on the table.
14. Arugula and Beet Salad
Arugula and beet salad is earthy, peppery, and vibrant. Roasted beets pair beautifully with arugula, goat cheese, and walnuts. A simple balsamic dressing brings it all together. The colors are stunning, and the flavors balance rich holiday dishes.
This salad is healthy, delicious, and a perfect seasonal choice for Thanksgiving. A great way to add elegance and freshness to the table.
15. Classic Wedge Salad
A wedge salad is crisp, classic, and simple. Iceberg lettuce wedges are topped with creamy dressing, bacon bits, and tomatoes for a satisfying bite. It’s refreshing and pairs nicely with rich holiday dishes.
The salad is quick to assemble, making it a great option when you need something easy but still flavorful. A timeless addition to any Thanksgiving spread.
16. Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Quinoa salad is hearty and healthy. Roasted vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and peppers add sweetness and depth, while quinoa brings texture and protein. A simple vinaigrette ties it all together.
This salad is filling but still light compared to casseroles. It’s colorful, nutritious, and a great way to add variety to your Thanksgiving spread with a wholesome twist.
17. Winter Pomegranate Salad with Maple Candied Walnuts
This winter pomegranate salad is festive and full of flavor. Fresh greens are topped with pomegranate seeds, candied walnuts, and goat cheese. A balsamic-fig vinaigrette ties everything together beautifully.
The mix of sweet, tangy, and crunchy textures makes this salad irresistible. It looks stunning on the table and tastes even better, making it perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations of any size.
18. Zucchini Carrot Salad with Catalina Dressing
This zucchini carrot salad is fresh and unique. Spiralized vegetables are tossed with homemade Catalina dressing, almonds, and mint for a crunchy, tangy dish. The bright colors and refreshing taste bring balance to the Thanksgiving table.
It’s light but flavorful, making it a great option when you want a healthier choice. A simple yet creative salad that stands out on the spread.
19. Apple Pecan Salad
Apple pecan salad is crisp and nutty. Fresh apple slices are paired with toasted pecans, mixed greens, and a honey vinaigrette. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a favorite.
This salad is easy to prepare and looks beautiful on the table. A simple, refreshing option that pairs perfectly with turkey and other holiday classics.
20. Roasted Vegetable Salad with Feta
Roasted vegetable salad is colorful, warm, and flavorful. Seasonal vegetables like squash, carrots, and peppers are roasted until tender, then tossed with feta and herbs. A light dressing ties it all together.
This salad is hearty but still refreshing, making it a perfect side dish for Thanksgiving. It’s simple, seasonal, and adds beautiful color to your holiday table.
21. Massaged Kale Salad with Orange Ginger Dressing
Massaging kale softens its texture and brings out its flavor. Topped with nuts, cranberries, and an orange-ginger dressing, this salad is both bold and refreshing. The citrusy dressing adds brightness, while the toppings add crunch.
It’s simple, healthy, and seasonal, making it a great option for Thanksgiving. A unique salad that shows how kale can be both tasty and festive.
22. Citrus Fruit Salad
Citrus fruit salad is juicy, tangy, and refreshing. A mix of oranges, grapefruit, and blueberries is combined with fresh mint and a light dressing. It’s bright, colorful, and a perfect contrast to heavy holiday foods.
This salad is simple but impressive, adding freshness and balance to the Thanksgiving table. A light option that keeps the meal varied and enjoyable.
23. Couscous Salad with Vegetables
Couscous salad is fluffy, colorful, and light. Tossed with roasted vegetables, herbs, and lemon dressing, it’s flavorful and festive. The couscous absorbs the dressing, creating a zesty dish that works well with Thanksgiving foods.
It’s quick to prepare and versatile, making it a great side dish for large gatherings. A refreshing and filling salad that everyone will enjoy.
24. Autumn Harvest Apple and Feta Salad
Apples and feta cheese combine beautifully in this autumn salad. Tossed with mixed greens, nuts, and a light dressing, it’s both sweet and savory.
The crisp apples add crunch, while the feta provides creamy tang. This salad is seasonal, colorful, and a great way to showcase fall flavors. It’s an easy and elegant addition to Thanksgiving dinner.
25. Broccoli Cranberry Salad
Broccoli cranberry salad is crunchy and sweet. Fresh broccoli florets are mixed with dried cranberries, nuts, and a creamy dressing. It’s colorful and full of texture, making it a fun option for Thanksgiving.
This salad is easy to prepare ahead of time and always popular with guests. A tasty way to add veggies with a hint of sweetness to the spread.
26. Autumn Glow Salad with Lemon Dressing
Autumn glow salad is light, crisp, and flavorful. Made with seasonal vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing, it balances heavier dishes perfectly. The bright colors and refreshing taste make it a standout on the Thanksgiving table.
This salad is easy to prepare and feels cheerful and festive. It’s a great way to add freshness to the holiday meal.
27. Spinach and Strawberry Salad
Spinach and strawberry salad is sweet, fresh, and colorful. Tender spinach leaves are paired with juicy strawberries, nuts, and feta cheese. A light balsamic dressing adds tang.
Though strawberries aren’t fall-specific, this salad is loved year-round and adds a cheerful touch to the table. It’s quick to make and brings a sweet balance to savory Thanksgiving dishes.
28. Fall Pasta Salad
This fall pasta salad is loaded with roasted vegetables, apples, and dried cranberries. The pasta makes it filling, while the seasonal produce adds freshness and sweetness. A simple vinaigrette ties the ingredients together.
It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for serving a crowd. This salad shows how pasta can be transformed into a colorful dish fit for Thanksgiving gatherings.
29. Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
Roasted sweet potato salad is warm, colorful, and full of flavor. Sweet potatoes are combined with spinach, red onions, and pecans, then tossed in a maple-mustard dressing.
The mix of sweet and savory makes it a standout dish. It’s hearty but light enough to balance heavier foods. A perfect, cozy addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
30. Brussels Sprouts and Cranberry Salad
Brussels sprouts and cranberry salad brings crunch and tang to the table. Shredded Brussels sprouts are mixed with dried cranberries, almonds, and parmesan cheese, then dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
It’s vibrant, refreshing, and packed with nutrients. The sweet-tart flavors make it ideal for fall gatherings and a fresh twist on a traditional vegetable.
31. Caramelized Pear and Walnut Salad
Caramelized pear and walnut salad is elegant and flavorful. Warm pears are sautéed in butter and brown sugar, then served over mixed greens with walnuts and blue cheese.
A light honey vinaigrette adds sweetness and balance. This salad feels gourmet but is simple to prepare, making it a festive and delicious choice for Thanksgiving dinner.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving salads bring freshness and balance to a table full of rich dishes. From kale and squash to apples, pomegranates, and citrus, these recipes showcase seasonal flavors beautifully. They’re colorful, delicious, and easy to prepare, making them perfect for holiday gatherings. With 31 different options, you can mix classics with creative twists and give guests plenty to enjoy. A lighter touch makes Thanksgiving more memorable.
