15 Best Thanksgiving Salad Recipes

When I think of Thanksgiving, rich and hearty dishes usually come to mind—but over the years, I’ve learned that a fresh, vibrant salad can truly balance the table. After all, between the turkey, stuffing, and pies, a crisp and colorful salad feels like a refreshing pause.

I’ve made it a tradition to experiment with seasonal ingredients like roasted squash, apples, cranberries, and toasted nuts, and every time, the salad ends up being one of the first dishes to disappear.

It’s not just about “something green” on the table—it’s about creating that perfect mix of flavors and textures that celebrate fall. That’s why I put together this list of 15 best Thanksgiving salad recipes.

Each one is festive, flavorful, and guaranteed to add freshness (and a pop of color!) to your holiday feast.

1. Roasted Sweet Potato Salad – Little Sunny Kitchen

This hearty Roasted Sweet Potato Salad is a wholesome blend of toasted pecans, creamy goat cheese, dried cranberries, and avocado. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it both satisfying and refreshing. Perfect as a holiday side or light lunch!

2. Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette – Little Sunny Kitchen

A bright and crunchy salad featuring thinly sliced Brussels sprouts tossed with goat cheese, apples, cranberries, and nuts. The lemon vinaigrette ties it all together for a refreshing balance of tang and creaminess. Ideal for any fall or winter meal.

3. Beet Salad with Arugula and Feta Cheese – Little Sunny Kitchen

This colorful beet salad brings together earthy beets, peppery arugula, crisp apples, and salty feta cheese. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. A great choice for a festive winter table or a nutritious everyday lunch.

4. Sweet Corn Pasta Salad

Bursting with fresh, summery flavor, this Sweet Corn Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, sweet corn, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty, garlicky dressing. It’s light yet filling, making it perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a refreshing side dish.

5. Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad

Vibrant and nutrient-packed, this Kale and Brussels Sprout Salad is a vegan-friendly side that’s both hearty and refreshing. The mix of greens, nuts, and fruit adds layers of texture and flavor. A wonderful complement to any main course, especially around the holidays.

6. Mixed Bean Salad

A simple yet flavorful combination of assorted beans in a slightly sweet and tangy dressing. This Mixed Bean Salad is protein-rich, colorful, and easy to make ahead. It’s a classic side that pairs well with grilled dishes or family-style dinners.

7. Apple Pecan Salad

Crunchy, sweet, and fresh — this Apple Pecan Salad features crisp apples, dried cranberries, broccoli florets, Parmesan shavings, and roasted pecans. The maple dressing adds a cozy, autumn-inspired sweetness. Perfect for gatherings or weekday meals.

8. AIP Thanksgiving Leftover Salad

Turn your holiday leftovers into something fresh and nourishing with this AIP Thanksgiving Leftover Salad. It’s a light yet flavorful mix of roasted vegetables and proteins. A perfect post-holiday meal that feels satisfying without the heaviness.

9. Easy Cranberry Harvest Salad with Apple Cider Vinaigrette

This Cranberry Harvest Salad is a Thanksgiving favorite packed with fresh greens, seasonal fruit, and crunchy toppings. The apple cider vinaigrette brings a perfect tangy sweetness that ties it all together. A festive, colorful addition to your holiday table.

10. Roasted Beet and Sweet Potato Salad with Pecans – A Sweet Alternative

Beautifully vibrant and packed with nutrients, this Roasted Beet and Sweet Potato Salad is a fall and winter staple. The natural sweetness of the veggies pairs perfectly with toasted pecans. Great as a side dish or a hearty vegetarian entrée.

11. Persimmon Salad

Celebrate persimmon season with this elegant Persimmon Salad. Juicy persimmons are paired with prosciutto, goat cheese, cranberries, and toasted pecans for a mix of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. A stunning salad for festive occasions.

12. Fall Kale Salad with Sweet Potato

This Fall Kale Salad combines roasted sweet potatoes, crunchy seeds, and hearty kale in one colorful dish. It’s packed with texture and earthy flavor, making it a great make-ahead option for lunches or side servings.

13. Thanksgiving Kale Salad

Add a pop of green to your Thanksgiving menu with this fresh and flavorful kale salad. Packed with nuts, fruit, and a tangy dressing, it balances the richness of traditional holiday dishes beautifully. Light, refreshing, and full of fall flair.

14. Antipasto Salad

Inspired by Italian antipasto platters, this salad is loaded with cured meats, cheese, olives, and fresh vegetables. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main course or shareable appetizer. A flavorful option for any Mediterranean-style meal.

15. Roasted Butternut Squash Quinoa Salad – The All Natural Vegan

This wholesome Roasted Butternut Squash Quinoa Salad is vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free. The combination of roasted squash, fluffy quinoa, and crisp greens makes it both nourishing and satisfying. A cozy yet healthy winter salad option.