In this article, we dive into some fantastic chopped salad recipes that are sure to please. These salads have been highly rated by our readers, earning four- and five-star reviews. Chopping the ingredients into similar sizes ensures that you get a burst of flavor in every bite. From vibrant and fresh to creamy and satisfying, these recipes offer a variety of tastes and textures that make for perfect meals or sides. Let’s explore these chopped salads that are perfect for any occasion.
1. Eat-the-Rainbow Chopped Salad with Basil & Mozzarella
This colorful and fresh chopped salad is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. It combines the flavors of a classic caprese salad with a mix of healthy vegetables. The salad features basil, mozzarella, and a variety of vibrant veggies, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. You can add grilled or roasted chicken to make it a complete main course. It’s a great way to enjoy a light and refreshing meal.
2. Chopped Cobb Salad
A twist on the classic Cobb salad, this version swaps bacon for chicken, making it a protein-packed option. It’s perfect for a satisfying lunch. The honey-mustard vinaigrette adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the salad, but you can use your favorite dressing if you prefer. This salad is a great choice for those who enjoy a hearty meal with a variety of textures and flavors.
3. Chopped Salad with Chickpeas, Mozzarella & Olives
Inspired by the salads found in Italian-American restaurants, this chopped salad is full of flavor and texture. It includes creamy mozzarella, briny olives, and crisp cucumber. The addition of radicchio gives it a touch of bitterness, balanced by sweet sun-dried tomatoes. This salad is both refreshing and hearty, making it a great choice for a light meal or a side dish.
4. Avocado & Shrimp Chopped Salad
This chopped salad combines the smoky flavors of grilled shrimp and corn with a creamy cilantro dressing. It’s a healthy and satisfying option that brings together fresh ingredients for a delightful meal. The avocado adds a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the smoky shrimp and sweet corn.
5. Creamy Cucumber, Radish & Tomato Chopped Salad
This salad is a mix of cool and crunchy vegetables, including cucumber, radish, and tomato. The creamy dressing adds a satisfying touch, making it a great side dish for potlucks or casual dinners. It’s easy to prepare and offers a refreshing contrast of textures.
6. Chopped Salad with Sriracha Tofu & Peanut Dressing
Perfect for meal prep, this vegan chopped salad uses Sriracha tofu and a peanut dressing to create a high-protein lunch option. The hearty salad mix can be dressed up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you can’t find a hearty salad mix, broccoli slaw or shredded Brussels sprouts work well as alternatives.
7. Copycat California Pizza Kitchen BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad
This salad is a copycat of the popular BBQ chicken salad from California Pizza Kitchen. It includes crisp lettuce, sweet BBQ chicken, juicy corn, and tortilla strips for added crunch. You can cook the chicken on a grill pan or an outdoor grill. It’s a fun and flavorful salad that brings the taste of your favorite restaurant home.
8. Guacamole Chopped Salad
For fans of guacamole, this chopped salad incorporates all the flavors you love into a veggie-packed dish. Add leftover roast chicken or sautéed shrimp for extra protein. Serve it with tortilla chips on the side or crumbled over the top for added crunch and flavor.
9. Southwest Chopped Salad with Tomatillo Dressing
This Southwest-style chopped salad features jicama, a crunchy, sweet tuber that pairs well with the flavorful tomatillo dressing. It’s a refreshing and slightly sweet salad that makes a great side dish or light meal.
10. Chopped Salad with Tomato, Cucumber, Onion & Kalamata Olives
This simple chopped salad includes Kalamata olives, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. It’s a great side dish to serve alongside grilled fish or chicken. The combination of ingredients provides a refreshing and flavorful addition to any meal.
11. Superfood Chopped Salad with Salmon & Creamy Garlic Dressing
The base of this salad is curly kale, but you can use chard or spinach if you prefer. It’s topped with a variety of chopped vegetables, including broccoli, cabbage, and carrots. The rich salmon adds protein, and the creamy garlic dressing ties everything together for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
12. Chopped Salad with Chicken & Creamy Chipotle Dressing
This chopped salad features chicken and a creamy chipotle dressing for a smoky and zesty flavor. Cilantro adds a fresh touch to each bite, making it a flavorful and satisfying option for a meal.
13. Stetson Chopped Salad
Inspired by the popular Stetson Chopped Salad from Cowboy Ciao, this recipe includes colorful vegetables and a variety of textures from whole grains, seeds, and a creamy homemade dressing. It’s a healthy and photo-worthy meal that can be kept vegetarian or enhanced with smoked salmon or roasted chicken.
14. “Use a Spoon” Chopped Salad
This versatile chopped salad includes celery, carrots, red pepper, apple, cucumber, greens, cabbage, goat cheese, and almonds. It’s a great option for any meal and stays crisp even if left to stand. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying and nutritious choice.
Can I substitute the mozzarella in the Eat-the-Rainbow Chopped Salad?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other types of cheese like feta or goat cheese, depending on your preference. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the salad may change slightly.
What can I use instead of chickpeas in the Chopped Salad with Chickpeas, Mozzarella & Olives?
If you don’t like chickpeas, you can substitute them with other beans such as black beans or kidney beans, or use grilled chicken for added protein.
How can I make the Creamy Cucumber, Radish & Tomato Chopped Salad in advance?
You can prepare the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add the creamy dressing just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
Can I use a different dressing for the Chopped Salad with Sriracha Tofu & Peanut Dressing?
Yes, you can use any dressing you prefer. A sesame dressing or a simple vinaigrette would work well with the Sriracha tofu and salad mix.