11 Fresh Salad Ideas That Kids Actually Eat This School Year

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Quinoa and Black Bean Salad With Lime Dressing

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad with Lime Dressing is a vibrant, nutritious dish that combines the wholesome flavors of quinoa and black beans with zesty lime and fresh vegetables. This salad is packed with protein and fiber, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or a revitalizing side dish. It’s not only easy to make but also ideal for meal prep, as the flavors meld beautifully over time.

Cooking Steps:

1. Rinse quinoa under cold water and cook according to package instructions (usually 2 cups water for 1 cup quinoa, bring to boil and simmer until water is absorbed).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, corn, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for ideal flavor. Enjoy!

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad With Feta and Olives

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Feta and Olives is a revitalizing and hearty salad that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. This dish is bursting with protein-packed chickpeas, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives, making it a satisfying choice for a light meal or a colorful side dish. Perfect for picnics or quick lunches, this salad is both nutritious and easy to prepare.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine drained chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, Kalamata olives, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Add crumbled feta cheese on top and give it one last gentle toss.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors. Enjoy!

Watermelon and Feta Salad With Mint

Watermelon and Feta Salad with Mint is a revitalizing summer dish that combines the sweet juiciness of ripe watermelon with the salty creaminess of feta cheese. Finished with fragrant fresh mint, this salad is not only vibrant and colorful but also incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for barbecues or as a light side dish to complement grilled meats.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, sliced red onion, and fresh mint leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
4. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld. Enjoy!

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad With Walnuts

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad with Walnuts is a delightful and nutritious dish that showcases the earthy sweetness of roasted beets paired with the creamy tang of goat cheese. The addition of crunchy walnuts adds texture and richness, making this salad not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. It’s a perfect choice for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the diced beets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
2. In a large bowl, combine the roasted beets with arugula or mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped walnuts.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper for the dressing.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently to combine, and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Spicy Thai Noodle Salad With Peanuts

Spicy Thai Noodle Salad with Peanuts is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the crispness of vegetables with the savory, spicy notes typical of Thai cuisine. This salad features rice noodles tossed with colorful vegetables and a zesty dressing, topped off with crunchy peanuts for an extra layer of texture. It’s a wonderful choice for a light lunch or a revitalizing side dish at a gathering.

Cooking Steps:

1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions, then rinse under cold water and drain.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, julienned carrot, sliced red bell pepper, cucumber, green onions, and fresh cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, chili paste or Sriracha, olive oil, and salt to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture, toss gently to combine, and top with chopped peanuts before serving. Enjoy!

Caprese Salad Skewers With Balsamic Glaze

Caprese Salad Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are a delightful and visually appealing appetizer that features the classic combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil. These colorful skewers are drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, making them a perfect finger food for parties or a invigorating snack during the summer.

Cooking Steps:

1. Thread a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball onto each skewer, repeating until the skewer is filled.
2. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Finish by drizzling the balsamic glaze over the skewers before serving. Enjoy!

Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad With Ricotta

Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad with Ricotta is a revitalizing and vibrant salad that combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with the peppery flavor of fresh arugula. This dish is topped with creamy ricotta, making it a delightful summer meal or a stunning side dish for gatherings. The combination of textures and flavors will elevate your salad game and delight your taste buds.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Cut the peaches in half, remove the pits, and brush them with olive oil.
2. Grill the peach halves for about 3-4 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and they soften slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine arugula, grilled peaches (sliced), and chopped nuts.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, mix gently, and top with dollops of ricotta cheese before serving. Enjoy!

Rainbow Slaw With Sesame Ginger Dressing

Rainbow Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing is a vibrant, crunchy salad packed with a medley of colorful vegetables. This invigorating dish not only provides a hearty dose of vitamins but also features a unique sesame ginger dressing that adds a delightful flavor kick. Perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or as a light main course, this slaw is sure to please anyone looking for something bright and healthy.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage, shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, chopped green onions, and cilantro.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, grated ginger, rice vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to prepare the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy!

Panzanella Salad With Grilled Vegetables

Panzanella Salad with Grilled Vegetables is a rustic Italian dish that highlights the flavors of fresh tomatoes, grilled vegetables, and crusty bread, all tossed in a tangy dressing. This salad is perfect for summer, as it utilizes seasonal ingredients, and the grilling adds a smoky depth that perfectly complements the juicy tomatoes. It can be served as a light lunch, a side dish, or an appetizer at any outdoor gathering.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high and grill the zucchini and bell peppers until tender and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool and slice.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grilled vegetables, diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, torn basil, and cubed bread.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad, gently toss to combine, and let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve and enjoy!

Zucchini Noodle Salad With Avocado Dressing

Zucchini Noodle Salad with Avocado Dressing is a revitalizing and nutritious dish that showcases the versatility of zucchini by transforming it into “noodles.” This vibrant salad combines raw vegetables and a creamy avocado dressing, making it a perfect light meal or a side dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. It’s ideal for warm days and offers a fantastic way to enjoy fresh produce.

Cooking Steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine spiralized zucchini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro or parsley.
2. In a blender, add the avocado, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the avocado dressing over the salad, gently toss to coat, and serve immediately. Enjoy your fresh and healthy zucchini noodle salad!

Farro Salad With Roasted Vegetables and Parmesan

Farro Salad with Roasted Vegetables and Parmesan is a hearty and flavorful dish that highlights the nutty taste and chewy texture of farro, an ancient grain. Paired with colorful roasted vegetables and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this salad makes for a perfect main course or a side dish that can be enjoyed warm or cold, celebrating the freshness of seasonal produce.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook farro according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. Toss the diced bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and carrots in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them evenly on the baking sheet.
4. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked farro, roasted vegetables, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, toss to combine, and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Farro Salad!