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Home » Best Of » 10 Hearty Salads for Memorial Day Picnics

10 Hearty Salads for Memorial Day Picnics

Modified: May 15, 2025 by Molly Pisula · Published: May 18, 2025 · As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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Hearty, fresh, and perfect for sharing—these salads are made for Memorial Day picnics. Packed with seasonal ingredients and bold flavors, they go beyond the usual leafy greens to bring substance and satisfaction to your outdoor spread. Whether you're planning a backyard gathering or a day at the park, these salads hold up well, travel easily, and pair perfectly with all your favorite cookout dishes.

Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta tossed in a zesty red wine vinaigrette. Add toasted pita chips for extra crunch and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad

Accompaniment Salad

Accompaniment Salad. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

This crisp, colorful salad features lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and cucumber, all dressed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette and topped with parmesan and crunchy croutons. A classic side for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Accompaniment Salad

Suddenly Salad Ranch & Bacon Salad

Suddenly Salad Ranch & Bacon Salad. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

A picnic-friendly favorite, this easy-to-make pasta salad with ranch seasoning and bacon is a light, flavorful side that fits right in at any casual gathering.
Get the Recipe: Suddenly Salad Ranch & Bacon Salad

Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad 

Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad . Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

A smoky twist on the classic Cobb—this hearty salad features grilled chicken, crisp greens, and all your favorite toppings. Even salad skeptics will be going back for more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad 

Greek Salad with Homemade Dressing- Panera Copycat

Greek Salad with Homemade Dressing- Panera Copycat. Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

Inspired by Panera’s version, this Greek salad includes fresh lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, red onions, and feta tossed in a tangy homemade dressing. Bright, bold, and picnic-ready.
Get the Recipe: Greek Salad with Homemade Dressing- Panera Copycat

Southwest Chicken Cobb Salad

Southwest Chicken Cobb Salad. Photo credit: The Creative Bite.

A bold spin on the Cobb with juicy chicken, Southwest spices, and a creamy chipotle lime dressing. It’s a filling and flavorful salad that doubles as a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Chicken Cobb Salad

Mason Jar Salad Recipe

Mason Jar Salad Recipe. Photo credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes.

This grab-and-go chickpea salad layers cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and chickpeas in a mason jar with a lemon vinaigrette. It stays fresh and is perfect for meal prep or picnic lunches.
Get the Recipe: Mason Jar Salad Recipe

Arugula Salad with Apples and Quinoa

Arugula Salad with Apples and Quinoa. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

Peppery arugula pairs with sweet apples, nutty quinoa, cheddar cheese, and candied pepitas in this vibrant salad. A honey-mustard dressing ties it all together.
Get the Recipe: Arugula Salad with Apples and Quinoa

Honey Chicken Apple Salad

Honey Chicken Apple Salad. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

Sweet and savory combine in this unique salad with tender honey-glazed chicken, crisp apples, and fragrant sage. Great for lunch or a light dinner.
Get the Recipe: Honey Chicken Apple Salad

Easy Asian Chicken Salad

Easy Asian Chicken Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Packed with crunch and flavor, this easy Asian chicken salad features shredded chicken, crisp veggies, and a sesame dressing that brings it all together with zing.
Get the Recipe: Easy Asian Chicken Salad

« Easy Old Bay Shrimp Salad
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I'm Molly, a former personal chef trained in French pastry. Here you'll find veggie-forward, seasonal recipes with a little French kiss!

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