When you’re hosting a salad party, why settle for just a plain old salad when you can elevate the experience with an array of creative and flavorful toppings? I’m excited to share my passion for salads with you, having crafted numerous recipes such as watergate salad, German cucumber salad, red potato salad, Greek yogurt-based fruit salad, rotisserie chicken salad, ranch-based pasta salad, grilled peach salad, and more.
While salads are already a delight on their own, the real magic happens when you add some clever toppings to take your favorite recipe to new heights. Whether you’re working with green salads, pasta salads, or something entirely different, these 52 innovative topping ideas will bring a burst of excitement and flavor to your dishes. Don’t forget to check out #31 for a sweet and crunchy twist that’s sure to please!
Spinach
When it comes to adding some greenery to your meals, Spinach is an excellent choice. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor profile makes raw young spinach leaves a refreshing addition to salads. However, cooked Spinach reveals a bold and robust taste. If you’re working with older leaves, it’s recommended to cook them before incorporating them into your salad to bring out their full potential.
While cooking may seem like an added step, rest assured that Spinach has one of the quickest cooking times among all vegetables, making it a convenient option for even the busiest of home cooks.
Bacon Bits
For a meat-free alternative to traditional bacon, bits made from textured soy flour offer an impressive replication of flavor and texture. While they excel as additions to green salads, their versatility also makes them ideal toppings for soups, baked potatoes, and pasta dishes. The subtle smokiness and satisfying crunch these bits provide can elevate even the most straightforward meal into a satisfying affair. If you’re concerned about processed foods, fear not – real bacon is always an option!
Simply cook the bacon in the oven until crispy, then chop it into bite-sized pieces to scatter over your salad of choice.
Cucumber
Cucumbers are a fantastic addition to green salads due to their incredible versatility. Not only do they offer a satisfying crunch when eaten raw, but they also provide a cool and refreshing contrast in texture. Furthermore, their mild, slightly sweet flavor makes them an excellent complement to a variety of other vegetables. In particular, cucumbers pair well with ingredients like almonds, basil, cumin, dill, and parsley, which is why you’ll often find them featured together in healthy salads.
Feta Cheese
When it comes to adding a burst of flavor and aroma to your salads, Feta Cheese is an excellent option. Its unique blend of tanginess and richness makes it a standout choice. Among my personal favorites is the crispy fried Greek feta, which elevates any dish with its sharp, pungent taste and refined texture.
Marinated Tomatoes
To take your salad game to the next level, consider adding tomatoes as a finishing touch during preparation. The combination of flavors in tomatoes is truly complex, offering sweet, sour, and savory notes that create a burst of flavor when combined with other salad ingredients. When it comes to incorporating tomatoes into your salad, you have options – slice them up, dice them, or leave them whole, depending on your personal preference.
To elevate the flavor even further, consider sprinkling a pinch of salt and pepper, drizzling lemon juice, or adding a splash of balsamic vinegar. These simple enhancements can make all the difference in creating a salad that’s truly memorable.
Broccoli
To elevate the texture and taste of your salad, consider incorporating a handful of freshly chopped broccoli florets. Not only will it add a pop of vibrant green to the mix, but its subtle bitterness will also provide a delightful contrast to the other ingredients.
Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Cauliflower has earned its reputation as a superfood among food enthusiasts, including myself. One of its most appealing qualities is its versatility, particularly when it comes to salads. The vegetable’s crunchy texture and mild flavor make it an ideal topping candidate, effortlessly complementing a variety of dishes. If you’re already a fan of cauliflower, consider expanding your repertoire with recipes like sautéed cauliflower and sticky sesame cauliflower.
Ranch Dressing
There’s something undeniably satisfying about savoring a salad smothered in rich, creamy ranch dressing. It’s a culinary experience that never fails to hit the spot! Crafting this delight is surprisingly simple, requiring only a few key ingredients such as sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, and a pinch of herbs and spices. With these basics at your disposal, you’re just a few minutes away from indulging in a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Grilled Avocado
If you’re an avocado enthusiast, you’ll adore this delectable grilled avocado recipe that makes a fantastic topping for any salad. The creamy texture and rich buttery flavor blend seamlessly with the crunch of fresh greens. For more mouth-watering avocado recipes, check out our popular Shrimp Stuffed Avocado, Avocado Deviled Eggs, and Baked Avocado Fries – you won’t be disappointed!
Honey Garlic Salmon
Looking for a game-changer to elevate your salads and more? Look no further than the rich and satisfying taste of salmon. Unlike other fish options, salmon is meaty in texture and packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice even for non-fish enthusiasts. Its versatility knows no bounds – toss it into your salad, use it as a topping for tartare or burgers, or add it to pasta dishes for a protein-packed punch.
And if you’re looking for inspiration, we’ve got plenty of air fryer salmon recipes up our sleeve.
Marinated Black Olives
Experience the thrill of discovering a new culinary delight by adding ripe olives to your salad! This simple yet game-changing addition can elevate the entire dish, infusing it with a fresh, fruity flavor that harmonizes beautifully with other ingredients like pungent garlic, savory cheese, and salty capers. The subtle brininess of anchovies also pairs exquisitely with the rich olive taste, making for a truly unforgettable salad experience.
Grilled Chicken
One of my favorite ways to use up leftover grilled chicken is to turn it into a delicious and flavorful salad topping. When I cook large batches of grilled chicken, it’s often because I know the smoky flavor will be a perfect addition to a fresh green salad. If you find yourself with a surplus of grilled chicken from last night’s dinner, don’t worry – simply toss those leftovers into your favorite greens for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Sweet & Spicy Almonds
In the world of salads, the humble almond is often overlooked in favor of more familiar toppings like lettuce and tomatoes. But let me tell you – adding sweet and spicy almonds to your favorite salad recipes can be a game-changer. Not only do they provide a satisfying crunch, but their rich nutty flavor adds depth and complexity that’s hard to find with other ingredients.
And while it’s true that almonds may be a bit more expensive than peanuts or other nuts, the versatility they offer makes them well worth the extra cost. Whether you’re looking to add some excitement to a classic green salad or create a unique and delicious side dish, sweet and spicy almonds are an excellent choice.
Boiled Eggs
Eggs are often overlooked as the star of the show when it comes to adding flavor and texture to salads. But trust us, they’re more than capable of holding their own against even the most elaborate toppings. In fact, boiled eggs can be a game-changer in a salad, providing a creamy richness that’s hard to beat. The key is to get them just right – overcooking can lead to an unappealing dark green ring around the yolk and a pungent aftertaste.
To avoid this pitfall, focus on achieving the perfect balance of cooking time and doneness. Once you’ve nailed the boil, consider elevating your salad by pairing your eggs with some savory friends – like crispy bacon or salty ham.
Dried Mango
The natural sweetness of dried mango is amplified when paired with other ingredients, particularly in a salad. Its versatility shines when combined with earthy kale, tangy goat cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and crunchy roasted pistachios. While store-bought dried mango is an option, making your own at home can be a more cost-effective solution.
Crab Cakes
When it comes to adding a protein-packed punch to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes, few options are as versatile and flavorful as crab cakes. While they may not be as traditional as chicken or turkey, these delectable little morsels bring a unique sweetness and creaminess that elevates the entire culinary experience.
Whether you’re tossing them into a fresh green salad, a tangy slaw, or a hearty soup, crab cakes have the uncanny ability to add an irresistible depth of flavor that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Guacamole
Guacamole is a crowd-pleaser that effortlessly elevates salads by bringing its unique flavor profile to the table. The creamy texture and nutty taste of this beloved dip not only complement surrounding ingredients but also amplify their flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like burgers or hot dogs, or looking to add a twist to chicken dishes, guacamole is an adaptable condiment that pairs well with any recipe.
Parmesan Cheese Crisps
When it comes to elevating the creaminess of your salad, Parmesan cheese is an excellent choice. Its subtle yet distinctive nutty and fruity undertones harmonize beautifully with the flavors of your salad ingredients. A mere handful of crumbled Parmesan is sufficient to transform your dish into a truly tantalizing experience.
Berries
A true passion for us lies in combining fresh berries with crisp greens. The perfect blend is achieved when sliced strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries come together in harmony. To elevate this delightful union, we recommend a rich champagne dressing that not only complements the sweetness of the berries but also brings out their natural flavors.
Bacon & Pears
Combine seemingly disparate flavors in a surprisingly harmonious way. Take a cue from this unconventional salad recipe, where crispy bacon and sweet pears unite. To bring out their unique bond, start by crumbling the bacon into smaller pieces and sautéing them with sliced pears in your trusty cast iron skillet. As you near the end of cooking, add a hint of honey to further elevate the flavors.
Roasted Chickpeas
For an added texture and flavor boost in your salad, consider incorporating roasted chickpeas. Not only do they offer a satisfying crunch, but they’re also incredibly delicious. What’s more, their versatility makes them a great match for other ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, allowing you to create a well-rounded and engaging meal.
Pulled Pork & Avocado
Transform your salad into a satisfying meal by infusing it with the bold flavors of the Southwest. The combination of tender pulled pork and creamy avocado elevates this humble dish into a nutritious and filling main course.
Watermelon & Feta
The harmonious pairing of watermelon and feta is a staple at many farmer’s markets, leaving customers in high spirits. When these two ingredients come together atop a salad, the result is nothing short of a culinary delight. To take it to the next level, I recommend sprinkling a pinch of cracked pepper on top, adding a touch of sophistication to this already-remarkable combination.
Dried Cranberries + Shredded Chicken
Rotisserie chicken is my go-to convenience food, offering endless possibilities for creative reuse. One of my favorite ways to repurpose it is by combining shredded chicken with sweet and tangy dried cranberries. This flavorful mixture adds a delightful twist to a simple spinach salad, making for a satisfying lunch or dinner option. Whether I’m in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and filling, this versatile combination always hits the spot.
Apple & Goat Cheese
To elevate your salad game, start by preparing a crisp and refreshing apple component. Begin by selecting a fresh apple and giving it a good wash before pat drying it. Once dry, slice the apple thinly, allowing its natural sweetness to shine through. Next, add the sliced apple to your preferred bed of greens, creating a harmonious foundation for your salad.
For an added layer of flavor and texture, crumble some creamy goat cheese into the mix, allowing its tanginess to balance out the sweetness of the apple. While I personally prefer this combination with a green apple, feel free to experiment with different varieties to find your perfect pairing.
Spicy Garlic Tofu
Give your salad a kick by incorporating Spicy Garlic Tofu into the mix! For an extra layer of heat, I recommend adding gochujang to the tofu. This Korean chili paste has a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and smoky, with a spicy punch that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Of course, not everyone may be a fan of gochujang, so feel free to substitute it with your preferred sauce or seasoning.
When cooking the tofu, don’t forget to drain it first to remove excess moisture, which will help ensure even browning and a better texture.
Garlic Shrimp & Mushroom
A tried-and-true flavor combination that excels on salads is this garlic shrimp, mushroom recipe. When I’m in the mood for something quick and easy, I simply stir-fry the garlic, shrimp, and mushrooms together for a delicious topping. However, there are times when I crave something more sophisticated. In those instances, I turn to this garlic shrimp, mushroom recipe that not only satisfies my hunger but also delivers a rich umami flavor experience.
A valuable tip is to opt for deveined and peeled shrimp, as it greatly simplifies the preparation process.
Asian Turkey Meatballs
Transforming dinner into a well-rounded meal is effortless with the addition of Asian Turkey Meatballs. These bite-sized treats are not only packed with flavor but also pair beautifully with a sweet chili sauce. For a leaner option, I recommend using ground turkey breast; however, you can substitute it with any other ground meat to suit your taste. While this recipe calls for cooking the meatballs in a large skillet, baking them in the oven is also a viable alternative.
Serve these savory orbs atop a bed of fresh greens, and you’ll be rewarded with a satisfying and filling meal.
Tuna Patties
Adding protein-packed Tuna Patties to your salad is a simple way to elevate the dish. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, they’re also a great option for busy weeknights when you need something easy and convenient. By making a large batch and freezing them, you’ll always have some on hand to throw together in no time. You can cook them using various methods – bake in the oven, sauté on the stove, or air-fry for a crispy exterior. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and enjoy!
Both kids and adults alike will love these Tuna Patties.
Garlic Edamame
Indulging in garlic edamame offers a convenient means of satisfying both your protein and green cravings simultaneously. This versatile snack allows for customization to suit individual tastes, whether that’s through the addition of spicy chili flakes or a more straightforward seasoning approach using salt and pepper.
Vidalia Onions With Bacon & Roast Garlic
Vidalia onions, renowned for their mild and delicate sweetness, offer a versatile canvas for culinary creativity. Rather than caramelizing them alone, I prefer to enhance their natural flavor by pairing them with crispy bacon and roasted garlic. This trifecta of flavors yields a sublime side dish that elevates any mix of greens to new heights.
Roasted Butternut Squash
Roasted Butternut Squash brings a luxurious smoothness to any dish, its velvety texture perfectly complementing the savory flavors of other ingredients. The subtle nutty taste with hints of sweetness makes it an excellent addition to vegetable mixes, adding depth and variety. I find that roasting it with rosemary takes the flavor to new heights, but for those who prefer a more understated taste, a simple seasoning with salt and pepper will suffice.
Regardless, incorporating butternut squash is a great way to add substance and satisfaction to your salads, making them more filling and satisfying.
Balsamic Roasted Beets
While raw or grated beets are certainly a great addition to salads, roasted beets take their flavor profile to the next level. The sweetness that develops during the roasting process beautifully complements the tanginess of balsamic vinegar, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. As a bonus, roasted beets are incredibly easy to prepare and can be paired with a variety of dishes as a side.
When it comes to choosing the right type of beet for this recipe, I recommend using baby beets due to their ease of roasting. However, feel free to experiment with other types of beets if you prefer. Just remember to slice them thinly to ensure even cooking.
Sauteed Bell Peppers
Bell peppers bring a burst of sweetness and vibrant color to mixed greens. For an appealing medley, I combine red, yellow, and orange varieties for a stunning rainbow effect. What’s more, the 15-minute sauté process makes it an ideal way to utilize leftover veggies, ensuring no scraps go to waste. When paired with aromatic garlic, this simple yet tantalizing topping is sure to satisfy.
Bean Sprout Stir Fry
When a sudden craving strikes, a simple yet satisfying Chinese-style bean sprout stir fry is just what I need to hit the spot. To elevate this dish, I add a drizzle of oyster sauce for an intense flavor boost and some chopped scallions for a delightful textural contrast. The type of bean sprout used is entirely up to personal preference, but I find that the longer ones work particularly well in this recipe.
If you’re having trouble tracking down Chinese-style bean sprouts at your local market, fear not – broccoli or Brussels sprouts make excellent substitutes and can be cooked using the same method. In fact, these alternatives offer a similar flavor profile and texture to their more exotic counterparts.
Apple Carrot Slaw
This apple carrot slaw, with its tangy and creamy flavors, brings a delightful sweetness and satisfying crunch to your veggie dishes. For added visual appeal, I enjoy combining green and red apples, which creates a stunning color contrast. One of the best aspects is that this slaw can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to a week, allowing you to grab it as a quick snack whenever you need. Plus, its versatility means it’s equally enjoyable as a standalone treat.
Dried Apricots Jam
Transforming ordinary dishes into indulgent treats is just what Dried Apricots Jam is designed to do. Its luscious texture and sweet flavor make it the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking to elevate a salad by using it as a dressing for your mixed greens, or simply want to add some excitement to your morning toast or oatmeal, this jam is sure to impress.
Its unique candied quality allows it to effortlessly take a simple dish and turn it into an experience that feels truly luxurious.
Orange Marmalade Dressing
This Orange Marmalade Dressing brings a sweet and tangy twist to any salad, effortlessly elevating its flavors. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only 15 minutes from start to finish. Simply combine the marmalade, vinegar, and oil in a bowl, whisking until they blend seamlessly together into a smooth emulsion. Alternatively, you can also toss everything into a blender or food processor for an ultra-smooth consistency.
Regardless of your mixing method, be sure to give the dressing a taste and adjust the sweetness level to suit your personal preference.
Crispy Garlic Croutons
Transforming your salads with crispy garlic croutons is just the beginning. These addictive little morsels can be elevated even further by infusing them with a savory aroma from garlic powder. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – prepare them on the weekends and store them in an airtight container for up to a week, perfect for a quick snack or meal addition.
One of their greatest appeals is their ability to provide satisfying texture and flavor, rivaling even the best store-bought options.
Sweet Potato
When searching for a comforting side dish that’s neither too starchy nor overpowering, sweet potatoes are an excellent choice. Their natural sweetness pairs well with various flavor profiles, making them an ideal accompaniment to your meals. For added depth, I recommend roasting them with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon. However, when time is of the essence, this quick and easy microwaved sweet potato recipe is a reliable alternative.
The microwave’s efficiency allows for rapid cooking without sacrificing texture or flavor, resulting in a creamy and satisfying outcome.
Lemon Israeli Couscous
Taking a detour from the world of vegetables, let’s shift our focus to grains for a moment. This Lemon Israeli Couscous is a sophisticated and tantalizing addition to any salad, bringing a satisfying heft to the mix. The combination of peas, lemon zest, mint, and parsley creates a bright and savory flavor profile that can elevate even the most mundane dishes.
Candied Walnuts
When you’re in a pinch and need a quick fix for your greens, don’t worry – just 5-10 minutes of prep time is all it takes to create a delectable Candied Walnut topping. Not only can you enjoy them as a sweet snack on their own, but they also make a thoughtful gift or a tasty addition to your favorite salads, leaving you with endless possibilities.
Sunflower Butter
When it comes to toppings, a smooth but not overpowering option is Sunflower Butter. While Peanut butter remains a timeless favorite, Sunflower Butter offers a delicious alternative for those with peanut allergies or looking to mix things up. Its versatility allows it to pair harmoniously with a wide range of foods, from sweet fruits and crunchy sandwiches to fresh greens. Each spoonful is a treat that will leave you wanting more.
Mango Salsa
Mango Salsa’s allure is undeniable, with its harmonious balance of sweetness and tanginess. As I’ve mentioned before, this blend of flavors is a staple in my salads. While mangoes may not be my top choice for snacking, their adaptability and ability to elevate both sweet and savory dishes make them a valuable addition to any culinary creation.
Cilantro Sauce
Infuse your meals with the bright, zesty taste of cilantro by whipping up this simple yet versatile Cilantro Sauce. Its fresh flavor profile is sure to elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. With a preparation time that’s as quick as it gets, you can have this sauce ready in no time. And the best part? It keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, making it a perfect addition to your meal prep routine.
Use it as a dressing for your favorite greens, or get creative and drizzle it over sandwiches, soup, tacos – the possibilities are endless!
Honey Mustard
With a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, this Honey Mustard dressing is an indispensable condiment in my kitchen. I always keep a jar stocked in the fridge to satisfy sudden salad cravings or add a tangy twist to meals on-the-go. Not only does it shine as a standalone dressing, but its versatility also makes it an excellent foundation for creating custom dressings and sauces.
Whether paired with chicken, fish, or other proteins, this Honey Mustard dressing is sure to elevate any dish.
Tahini
Tahini is a culinary chameleon that effortlessly transitions between sweet and savory flavors. At its core, this versatile ingredient is comprised of ground sesame seeds, boasting a nutty yet subtle taste that adds depth without overpowering other flavors. Think of it as a flavor amplifier! With its creamy texture and adaptable nature, tahini can be seamlessly incorporated into a variety of dishes to elevate their flavor profiles.
Whether used in sauces, dips, or desserts, this versatile ingredient is sure to tantalize your taste buds. And if you’re skeptical, simply pair it with a bag of chips – the experience will speak for itself!
Balsamic Vinaigrette
While balsamic vinaigrette may seem like a familiar and unassuming condiment, its enduring popularity is well-deserved. This classic sauce is deceptively simple yet bursting with flavor, making it a versatile accompaniment to a wide range of salads. One of the benefits of preparing balsamic vinaigrette at home is the ability to customize ingredients to your taste preferences.
However, when time constraints or convenience are priorities, store-bought options can still deliver a satisfying and flavorful dressing experience, even if it may not be tailored to your exact specifications.
Pita Chips
Pita chips offer a delightful combination of salty flavor and satisfying crunch, making them an excellent addition to vegetable dishes. Their versatility also lies in their ability to serve as a platform for various toppings and dressings. I personally enjoy using them as dippers or sprinkling crumbled pita chips on top of my salads for a welcome burst of texture. To prepare them, simply cut pita bread into bite-sized pieces and toast them in the oven for a few minutes.
Raisins
While some may not be fans of raisins in their salads, I’m a big advocate for incorporating these sweet treats into my leafy dishes. The natural sweetness they bring to the table is a game-changer, and they complement other fruits and nuts beautifully. Of course, you can always opt for store-bought raisins, but if you’re feeling adventurous, making your own from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience.
Simply pop some grapes in the oven, let them dry until they reach a slightly wrinkled consistency, and voilà! You’ll have homemade raisins with a richer flavor profile and an irresistible chewiness that’s sure to elevate your salads to new heights.
Spicy Hummus
When you’re working with leftover tahini, don’t let it go to waste – put it to good use by making a batch of hummus! This Spicy Hummus is not only a great way to add flavor to your meal, but also perfect for dipping. Feel free to double the recipe and have some on hand for snacking. And if you’re looking for even more ways to reuse ingredients from the same list, consider crumbling up some baked pita chips on top of your salad – the complementary flavors will be a game-changer!
Strawberry Puree
While it may seem unconventional at first, incorporating Strawberry Puree into your dishes can be a game-changer. Its natural sweetness and vibrant color make it an ideal addition to a variety of culinary creations. To prepare this tasty treat, simply blend fresh strawberries in a food processor until smooth, then use it as a dressing or topping for salads, adding a burst of flavor and visual appeal.
The bottom line
When it comes to crafting the perfect salad, there are countless ways to get creative with your toppings. Rather than settling for a generic mix of lettuce and veggies, why not add some excitement to your bowl? From sweet treats to savory bites, tangy flavors to crunchy textures, there’s something for every palate. Consider adding spinach for a nutritious boost, crispy bacon bits for a smoky kick, or grilled chicken for a protein-packed punch.
And don’t be afraid to think outside the box – even strawberry puree can add a surprising twist to your salad. With so many options at your fingertips, it’s time to get adventurous and find the perfect combination that satisfies your cravings.
