Our best Easter salad recipes are packed with veggies, fruit or a mixture of both! These fresh spring salads are the perfect way to start an Easter dinner.
25 Easter Salad Recipes That Make the Most of Spring Produce
Updated on Jan. 31, 2025
1/25
Veggie Chopped Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
25 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband's aunt gave me this recipe back in the '80s, and it's been a staple at our house ever since. I like to make it a day ahead because some time in the fridge makes it even better. Be sure to save yourself some leftovers, too. —Madeline Etzkorn, Burien, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 308 calories, 26g fat (4g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 357mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.
With fresh broccoli, cauliflower, celery and salted peanuts, this salad is the ultimate crunchy start to any holiday meal. You can toss the salad in the dressing the night before Easter as a make-ahead option, but wait to add the peanuts until right before you serve. That way, they’ll keep their ideal texture.
2/25
Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My family is always happy to see this fruit and veggie salad on the table. If strawberries aren’t available, substitute mandarin oranges and dried cranberries. —Irene Keller, Kalamazoo, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 110 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 33mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
Strawberry recipes are a favorite of mine when spring rolls around. The slightly sweet poppy seed dressing is a nice accompaniment to this fruit-forward salad.
3/25
Deviled Egg Pasta Salad
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This macaroni salad mixes cooked egg yolks into the mayonnaise dressing to give it that classic deviled egg taste. If your usual macaroni salad includes other veggies, such as sweet red pepper or carrots, feel free to stir them in. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 331 calories, 25g fat (4g saturated fat), 150mg cholesterol, 421mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
Deviled eggs are an Easter staple, and this egg salad recipe gives them a major twist. To make quick work of peeling all those eggs, roll the boiled egg against the counter until the shell has cracked all the way around. It’ll be much easier to peel then!
4/25
Herby Pea Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We love spring vegetables. One Mother's Day, I came up with this flavorful green salad that everyone enjoyed. You could increase the dressing and mix in some cooked small pasta, like acini de pepe, to make it a more robust salad. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 129 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 353mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
This pea salad makes the most of spring produce like leeks, asparagus, chives, parsley and tarragon. The touch of Dijon mustard in the dressing really mellows out the dish.
5/25
Red Potato Salad
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
40 min
Servings
17 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This flavorful red potato salad recipe with egg is the perfect side for summer cookouts. The red potatoes really dress it up. —Margaret Blomquist, Newfield, New York
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 276 calories, 17g fat (3g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 309mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
There’s no need to peel the potatoes for this recipe. Just give the red potatoes a good scrub before halving and boiling them. That way, you’ll ensure no dirt or dust makes it in the pot.
6/25
Radish Cucumber Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
10 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I put this cucumber radish salad together with vegetables I had left in my garden. My family liked it so much, I started taking it to community suppers and was often asked for the recipe. It's a refreshing accompaniment for any entree. —Mildred Sherrer, Fort Worth, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 77 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
Radishes have a crisp texture and peppery flavor profile. Paired with cucumber and red onion, they create a simple salad recipe that is incredibly refreshing.
7/25
Amish Broccoli Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
20 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This pretty Amish broccoli salad always gets rave reviews when Mom serves it. She fixes it the night before so that the creamy sweet dressing marinates the vegetables.
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 345 calories, 32g fat (9g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 515mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein.
Broccoli isn’t always the most popular vegetable on the dinner table, but the addition of bacon and shredded cheese will make this salad appealing even to the pickiest eaters. It’s gluten-free, too!
8/25
Apricot Fluff
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
10 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When we were young mothers, I asked my best friend if she had a recipe for an easy ambrosia salad that I could take to a cookout later that evening. She shared this recipe with me and it's become a must-have at every barbecue I attend. It's sublime with peaches and peach gelatin, too. —Melissa Meinke, Fawn Grove, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 225 calories, 3g fat (3g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 57mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (36g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.
In the Midwest, concoctions made with gelatin, whipped topping, marshmallows and apricots do, in fact, count as salads. Vintage fluff salads are great make-ahead sides, as they need a few hours to set up in the fridge.
9/25
Vegan Potato Salad
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Don't be fooled by the green color—this vegan potato salad is absolutely delicious! It's perfect for potlucks and for those with dietary restrictions. —Laura Wilhelm, West Hollywood, California
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 235 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 295mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 1-1/2 starch.
This potato salad recipe proves vegan recipes aren’t just for plant-based eaters! The dressing is made with avocado, vegan mayo, herbs and spices, giving it a hearty flavor and creamy consistency.
10/25
Simple Waldorf Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
10 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is my go-to salad when I need a quick little meal. When I want a sweeter taste, I use whipped cream instead of yogurt. —Wendy Masters, East Garafraxa, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 140 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 119mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 fruit.
To achieve the perfect texture for this Easter salad, use crisp apples without any soft spots. If you’re like me and aren’t a huge fan of mayonnaise, you can replace it with equal amounts of plain yogurt.
11/25
Cabbage and Rutabaga Slaw
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
10 min
Servings
4 servings.
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a favorite crunchy slaw that's a perfect way to use cool-weather veggies. We love it as a side with any spicy main dish. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 126 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 144mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
Those unfamiliar with rutabaga will be pleasantly surprised by its mellow flavor. You can use a store-bought dressing or whip up homemade apple cider vinaigrette, but make sure to let the salad marinate for a few hours in the fridge so the veggies can soak up the dressing.
12/25
Green Beans and Radish Salad with Tarragon Pesto
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
25 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Whichever way my garden grows, I usually build my salad with green beans, radishes and a pesto made with tarragon. That adds a hint of licorice. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 115 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 89mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
Green beans are a severely underrated Easter side dish, and they really shine in this recipe. They’re paired with thinly sliced radishes, toasted pecans and grated Parmesan cheese to create a gorgeous fresh salad.
13/25
Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My spinach salad with a comforting bacon dressing is a recipe I turn to again and again in winter. It's quick, elegant and so delicious. I can always count on compliments. —Sandy Davis, Prescott, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1-3/4 cups: 280 calories, 25g fat (6g saturated fat), 196mg cholesterol, 373mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.
To free up some room on your stovetop, try baking bacon in the oven. This method will save you from cleaning up grease splatters on your kitchen counters. Baked bacon is just as crunchy as skillet bacon—no floppy bacon here!
14/25
Cobb Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
40 min
Servings
6 servings (1-1/4 cups dressing)
From the Recipe Creator:
Made on the fly by Hollywood restaurateur Bob Cobb in 1937, the Cobb salad is a world-famous American dish. Here's a fresh take, with all the original appeal and an extra special presentation. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 575 calories, 52g fat (8g saturated fat), 147mg cholesterol, 1171mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 20g protein.
When it comes to what dressing to use for Cobb salads, you have a few options. My top choice is a light Italian dressing, but you could also go with a vinaigrette, ranch or even blue cheese dressing.
15/25
Shredded Kale and Brussels Sprouts Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This salad is a simple and delicious way to eat your superfoods! It gets even better after it sits for a while in the fridge, so I make it ahead. I use my homemade honey mustard dressing, but any type works just fine. —Alexandra Weisser, New York, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 207 calories, 14g fat (2g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 235mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 2 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
Here is a green machine of a salad! Whenever I make this kale and Brussels sprouts salad for a holiday meal, I’ll shred the veggies the day before. They’re hearty enough to hold their texture and it saves me a lot of chopping time before dinner.
16/25
Lemony Zucchini Ribbons
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh zucchini gets a shave and a drizzle of lemony goodness in this fab salad. Sprinkle the goat cheese or feta on top and dive in. —Ellie Martin Cliffe, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 83 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 352mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
When zucchini is sliced thinly enough, it doesn’t even need to be cooked! With a light lemon dressing and salty feta cheese, this is an excellent Easter salad.
17/25
Radish Asparagus Salad
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Lemon zest and mustard in the dressing add the perfect punch to crisp asparagus and crunchy radishes in this fresh spring salad. My family loves it! —Nancy Latulippe, Simcoe, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 73 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 28mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
Be sure to cut off and discard the woody ends of asparagus. Otherwise, those ends will be tough and difficult to chew in this otherwise tender salad.
18/25
Kale Slaw Spring Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
25 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My parents and in-laws are retired and like to spend winters in Florida. This tangy spring salad welcomes the snowbirds back for our Easter celebration! —Jennifer Gilbert, Brighton, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 192 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 140mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 1 starch.
The pureed strawberries in this salad dressing add an extra pop of berry goodness to this kale salad. If you don’t feel like pulling out your blender, you can use a fork to mash hulled strawberries until they reach a pureed consistency.
19/25
Pea Salad with Bacon
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
10 min
Servings
6 servings.
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband absolutely loves peas. My middle son isn't the biggest fan, but he loves bacon. So I decided to combine the two, and it was perfect! This salad is an awesome side dish, especially for barbecues. —Angela Lively, Conroe, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 218 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 547mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 9g protein.
Store-bought ranch dressing is totally fine to use in this tasty pea salad recipe. However, to take it to the next level, consider making homemade ranch.
20/25
Shaved Fennel Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This salad tastes even more impressive than it looks. It has an incredible crunch thanks to the cucumbers, radishes and apples. And the finish of fennel fronds adds just the faintest hint of licorice flavor. —William Milton III, Clemson, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 55 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 138mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
Fennel has a lovely anise flavor that’s similar to licorice, but its texture is similar to celery. Those without a mandoline can use a vegetable peeler or sharp knife to thinly slice the fennel, apple and cucumber.
21/25
Shrimp Avocado Salad
Skill Level
Intermediate
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The delicious taste and smooth texture of avocados and the crisp shrimp salad create a heavenly combination. Serve it as a cool and satisfying lunch or a light, quick and easy dinner. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup avocado mixture: 252 calories, 16g fat (2g saturated fat), 115mg cholesterol, 523mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 5g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 2 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
This ceviche-like salad will be a fresh new addition to Easter dinner. To get a little bit of everything in each bite, chop all the ingredients finely. This shrimp salad is delicious on its own or served with tortilla chips or bib lettuce leaves.
22/25
Fresh Sugar Snap Pea Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
15 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We found fresh sugar snap peas at our town's farmers market. They make a cheerful salad with a tangy dressing. —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 86 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 201mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
As the name implies, sugar snap peas are a sweet pea pod. Unlike other types of peas, these are best enjoyed raw. They’re a seasonal ingredient, so keep your eyes peeled for them in your grocery’s produce section or local farmers market.
23/25
Fresh Broccoli Salad with Lemon
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
30 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The slightly sweet flavor of this salad's dressing is a great contrast to the rich bacon. You can substitute cauliflower for the broccoli if you prefer. —Janet Roth, Tempe, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 222 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 520mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 3g fiber), 8g protein.
I love this salad so much that I’ve made it for my Easter meal for several years. It has a zippy dressing, thanks to the vinegar and lemon juice.
24/25
Tarragon Asparagus Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love asparagus, and I love it even more when drizzled with my light, lemony vinaigrette dressing with a touch of tarragon. It's perfect as a side for fresh spring meals. —Linda Lace, Winter Park, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 77 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 387mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
There are many ways to cook asparagus, with this recipe opting for a quick blanch. Dunking the cooked asparagus in ice water stops the cooking process and prevents the stems from getting limp and squishy.
25/25
Spring Pea & Radish Salad
Skill Level
Beginner
Total Time
20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Winters can be very long here in New Hampshire. I always look forward to the first veggies of spring and making some lighter dishes like this fresh salad. —Jolene Martinelli, Derry, New Hampshire
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 50 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 86mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
This salad will look beautiful in a big salad bowl on your Easter table. The sliced radish adds a nice pop of color.
Easter Salad Recipes FAQ
Can you make salads ahead of time for Easter?
Yes, you can definitely make salads ahead of time for Easter. For most recipes, especially those with leafy greens, I recommend cutting up your veggies ahead but waiting to toss them in the dressing until just before serving.
This collection also includes a few salad recipes that have to be made in advance. For example, most potato salads, fluff salads and mayo-dressed salads benefit from a little resting time in the fridge. It’s best to make them at least a few hours ahead or let them sit in the fridge overnight.
What seasonal spring vegetables can I use in Easter salads?
Spring vegetables are ideal additions to Easter salads, so look for seasonal produce like asparagus, peas, radishes, turnips and kale. You can also include fruit that peaks in the spring, like apricots, strawberries and rhubarb.
What Easter salad recipes are good for Easter lunch?
If you want to serve main dish salads for your Easter lunch, aim for salads that include protein, like this strawberry-chicken pasta salad or a hearty Cobb salad. To turn a salad into a filling main, add cooked ham, chicken or roasted chickpeas. They would be a great addition to any of the salads on this list (well, maybe not the fluff salad!).
