15 Salads That Have Been Grandma-Approved for Generations

Salads that have been passed down for generations are simple, reliable, and full of familiar flavors. These 15 grandma-approved recipes use fresh ingredients and classic combinations that have stood the test of time. Whether crisp, creamy, tangy, or hearty, each one brings comfort and tradition to the table. These dishes are easy to make and perfect for any meal or gathering.

Pistachio salad topped with nuts and cherries. — Pistachio Fluff Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Summer Orzo Salad

Oval dish of orzo salad with cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, and herbs, surrounded by cucumber slices, on a wooden table. Green beans are nearby. — Summer Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Orzo pasta is tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta for a light and refreshing dish. This salad takes about 20 minutes to make and has a mix of fresh, tangy, and slightly creamy flavors. The vegetables add a crisp texture, while the dressing enhances the overall taste. It’s a simple side that pairs well with any meal.
Get the Recipe: Summer Orzo Salad

Rubbed Kale Salad with Parmesan

A white dish filled with kale leaves topped with slices of cheese. A glass of water, a fork, and a napkin are in the background on a dark wooden table. — Rubbed Kale Salad with Parmesan. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Kale leaves are softened with a light dressing and topped with Parmesan for a flavorful, hearty salad. This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and balances the earthy kale with salty cheese and bright lemon juice. The rubbing process helps mellow the bitterness, making it more enjoyable. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh greens with bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Rubbed Kale Salad with Parmesan

Cabbage Apple Salad

Red cabbage slaw in a wooden bowl with a spoon. — Cabbage Apple Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Shredded cabbage and crisp apples are tossed together with a light dressing for a crunchy and refreshing dish. This salad takes about 15 minutes to make and combines sweet, tangy, and slightly savory flavors. The apples add a natural sweetness that balances the sharpness of the cabbage. It’s a simple but flavorful side for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Apple Salad

Purple Cabbage And Pickled Mushroom Salad

Shredded purple cabbage and pickled mushrooms create a tangy, crunchy salad with bold flavor. This dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare and has a mix of tart, earthy, and slightly sweet tastes. The pickled mushrooms bring a bright contrast to the crisp cabbage. It’s a unique and flavorful addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Purple Cabbage And Pickled Mushroom Salad

Hot And Sour Shredded Napa Cabbage Salad

Napa cabbage is shredded and tossed with a spicy, tangy dressing for a bold and crunchy dish. This salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and combines heat, acidity, and natural sweetness. The dressing soaks into the cabbage, making each bite full of flavor. It’s a great option for those who like a little spice in their meals.
Get the Recipe: Hot And Sour Shredded Napa Cabbage Salad

Greek Quinoa Salad

A bowl of quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, and leafy greens, topped with a piece of flatbread. — Greek Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Quinoa is mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta for a filling and fresh salad. This dish takes about 30 minutes to make and has a balance of tangy, salty, and herby flavors. The quinoa absorbs the dressing, making it flavorful and satisfying. It’s a great choice for a light meal or side dish.
Get the Recipe: Greek Quinoa Salad

Bulgur Salad With Roasted Butternut Squash And Leeks

Bulgur is combined with roasted butternut squash and leeks for a hearty, flavorful salad. This dish takes about 40 minutes to prepare and has a mix of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. The roasted vegetables add warmth, while the bulgur keeps it filling. It’s a great option for a satisfying side or light main course.
Get the Recipe: Bulgur Salad With Roasted Butternut Squash And Leeks

Citrus Asparagus Couscous

Couscous is tossed with tender asparagus and a citrus dressing for a light and refreshing salad. This dish takes about 25 minutes to make and has a mix of bright, slightly sweet, and earthy flavors. The citrus brings out the freshness of the asparagus while keeping everything balanced. It’s a simple and flavorful way to enjoy couscous.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Asparagus Couscous

Tomato Burrata Salad

Fresh tomatoes and creamy burrata are combined with basil and a drizzle of balsamic for a simple but rich salad. This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and has a balance of juicy, tangy, and creamy textures. The burrata adds a smooth contrast to the fresh tomatoes. It’s a great appetizer or side for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Burrata Salad

Pea Salad

Sweet peas, cheese, and crispy bacon are mixed with a creamy dressing for a satisfying cold salad. This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and has a mix of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. The peas add freshness, while the bacon brings crunch and depth. It’s a classic side that works for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Pea Salad

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Plate with sliced avocado, halved boiled eggs, and a salad of shredded greens, cranberries, and diced nuts. — Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Thinly sliced Brussels sprouts are tossed with nuts, cheese, and a simple dressing for a crunchy and flavorful dish. This salad takes about 20 minutes to make and offers a mix of nutty, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. The raw sprouts keep their crisp texture, making each bite refreshing. It’s a great way to enjoy Brussels sprouts in a new way.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad

Zucchini Noodle Salad

A plate of zucchini noodles with cherry tomatoes and diced yellow bell peppers, served in front of a glass bowl with more salad. A folded napkin and forks are in the background. — Zucchini Noodle Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Spiralized zucchini noodles are mixed with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and a light dressing for a crisp, refreshing dish. This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and has a balance of fresh, slightly tangy, and mild flavors. The zucchini absorbs the dressing, making it flavorful without being too heavy. It’s a great low-carb option for a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Noodle Salad

Veggie Couscous Salad

A white bowl filled with couscous salad, containing diced tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and garnished with herbs. A spoon is placed in the bowl. — Veggie Couscous Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Fluffy couscous is mixed with fresh vegetables and a simple dressing for a light but satisfying salad. This dish takes about 20 minutes to make and has a mix of crunchy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. The couscous keeps it filling without being too heavy. It’s a great meal prep option or quick side dish.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Couscous Salad

Carrot Raisin Salad

A bowl of coleslaw with shredded carrots and raisins on a wooden surface, next to a red and white checkered cloth. — Carrot Raisin Salad. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Shredded carrots and sweet raisins are mixed with a creamy dressing for a simple, balanced salad. This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and has a mix of natural sweetness with a slight tang. The dressing adds richness while keeping the texture fresh and crisp. It’s a nostalgic side dish that pairs well with many meals.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Raisin Salad

Pistachio Fluff Salad

Pistachio pudding, whipped topping, and marshmallows come together for a soft, creamy dessert salad. This no-cook recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and has a mix of nutty, sweet, and fluffy textures. The marshmallows and pineapple add extra softness and flavor. It’s an easy treat that works well for gatherings or potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Fluff Salad