15 Quick & Easy Vegetarian Salad Recipes Ready in Under 20 Minutes

ByMitchell Grace10/12/2025in All Recipes 2
15 Quick & Easy Vegetarian Salad Recipes Ready in Under 20 Minutes
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Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen only to end up with a meal that feels more like a chore than a delight? If you’re looking for something fresh, tasty, and quick, then you’re in the right place. I created this post because I know how busy life can get. Sometimes, all you want is a satisfying meal that doesn’t require a lot of fuss or time. That’s where these 15 quick and easy vegetarian salad recipes come in.

If you’re a busy parent, a college student, or anyone who loves healthy meals but struggles to find the time to prepare them, this is just for you. You care about what you eat, but you also need meals that fit into your hectic schedule. These recipes will not only keep you feeling full but also nourish your body with wholesome ingredients.

In this list, you’ll discover salads that are vibrant, flavorful, and ready in under 20 minutes. From a refreshing Mediterranean Chickpea Salad to a zesty Taco Salad with Lime Dressing, there’s something for everyone! Each recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward, so you can whip up a delicious vegetarian salad without breaking a sweat. Get ready to impress yourself with how easy healthy eating can be!

So grab your chopping board and prepare to add some new favorites to your meal rotation. Let’s dive into a world of colorful veggies and tasty dressings that will make your taste buds dance.

Key Takeaways

– Each salad can be made in under 20 minutes, perfect for your busy schedule.

– Recipes include a variety of ingredients to keep your meals interesting and nutritious.

– Options range from hearty salads, like the Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad, to light and refreshing ones, ensuring there’s a salad for every craving.

– Many salads can be customized with your favorite toppings or dressings for added flavor.

– Eating more vegetables has never been easier or more delicious with these quick recipes!

1. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Want a quick, filling lunch that travels well? This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is your answer. It packs protein from chickpeas and bright bites from cucumber, tomato, and feta. A lemon zest with olive oil glaze brings everything together in a fresh, sunny note. Keep it chilled for a crisp, summer-ready meal.

Ingredients:
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
In a large bowl, mix chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta, and parsley.
Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
Pour dressing over salad and toss well.
Chill for 30 minutes for deeper flavor, or serve right away.

FAQs:
Can I swap feta for goat cheese?
Yes, goat cheese works and keeps the tangy finish.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Use dried parsley sparingly or omit it for a milder flavor.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:08 AM

2. Rainbow Quinoa Salad

Bright bowls spark appetite. This Rainbow Quinoa Salad turns healthy eating into a feast for the eyes and the palate. Quinoa adds a nutty foundation, while peppers, corn, and avocado deliver crunch and creaminess. It’s gluten free and great as a main or side.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: Approximately 300 per serving

Ingredients:
1 cup tricolor quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Cook quinoa in broth until fluffy; let cool.
In a large bowl, combine quinoa, tomatoes, pepper, corn, avocado, and cilantro.
Drizzle lime juice and olive oil; season with salt and pepper.
Gently toss and serve.

FAQs:
Can I use regular quinoa?
Yes, it works the same way with slightly different color.
What if I want more protein?
Add black beans or chickpeas for heft.

Rainbow Quinoa Salad

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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:08 AM

3. Spinach Strawberry Salad

Sweet meets greens in a simple, crisp combo. Spinach and strawberries make a bright pair, while almonds add a toasty bite. A balsamic vinaigrette finishes it with a touch of tang. It’s perfect as a starter or a light main.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 200 per serving

Ingredients:
4 cups fresh spinach
1 cup strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup toasted almonds, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, almonds, and feta.
Whisk balsamic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Pour dressing over salad; toss gently.
Serve immediately for best crunch.

FAQs:
Can I add chicken for more protein?
Yes, grill some chicken strips and toss in.
Is it okay to prep ahead?
Dress just before serving to keep greens crisp.

Spinach Strawberry Salad

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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:08 AM

4. Asian Sesame Noodle Salad

Craveable crunch and bold flavors come together fast. Whole wheat noodles meet crisp veg and a sesame boost. This dish shines warm or cold and travels well for picnics. It’s an easy win for busy days.

strong>Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

Ingredients:
8 oz whole wheat noodles
1 cup shredded carrots
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cucumber, julienned
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup sesame oil
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:
Cook noodles; rinse with cold water.
In a large bowl, mix noodles with vegetables and onions.
Whisk sesame oil, soy sauce, vinegar, and honey.
Pour dressing over; toss to coat.
Garnish with sesame seeds.

FAQs:
Can I swap tofu for protein?
Grill tofu cubes and mix in.
Any veggie substitutions works well here.

Asian Sesame Noodle Salad

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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:08 AM

5. Caprese Salad Skewers

These bite sized skewers mix fresh dairy, juicy tomatoes, and bright basil. A balsamic glaze adds a glossy finish. They look fancy but are easy enough for a quick snack. Perfect for gatherings.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 150 per serving

Ingredients:
1 pint cherry tomatoes
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
Fresh basil leaves
Balsamic reduction for drizzling
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers or toothpicks

Instructions:
On each skewer, stack tomato, mozzarella, and basil.
Repeat until used up.
Arrange and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Season with salt and pepper.

FAQs:
Can I use grape tomatoes?
Yes, they work well.
Best served fresh, but can be refrigerated briefly.

Caprese Salad Skewers

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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:09 AM

6. Taco Salad with Lime Dressing

Fiesta vibes in a bowl, minus the fuss. Crisp greens meet beans, corn, and tomatoes under a bright lime glaze. Avocado and chips add texture and depth. A fun, healthy twist on taco night.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

Ingredients:
4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
Tortilla chips for topping
Juice of 2 limes
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Toss greens with beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado.
Whisk lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle dressing over salad; toss gently.
Top with crushed chips just before serving.

FAQs:
What about cheese or jalapeños?
Add shredded cheese or jalapeños for heat.
Best served right away to keep chips crunchy.

Taco Salad with Lime Dressing

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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:09 AM

7. Greek Pasta Salad

A sunny mix of pasta and Greek flavors that shines at picnics. Al dente rotini, cucumbers, olives, and feta come together in a tangy dressing. Make ahead for easy lunches.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: Approximately 400 per serving

Ingredients:
8 oz rotini pasta
1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup red onion, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Cook pasta; cool.
Combine pasta with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, and onion.
Whisk olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Pour dressing over salad; mix well.
Serve now or chill for later.

FAQs:
Can I add chicken for extra protein?
Yes, grilled chicken works great.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
Up to 3 days.

Greek Pasta Salad

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:09 AM

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8. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad

Roasted sweet potatoes bring warmth to this vibrant mix. Black beans add heft, while cilantro lime dressing adds zing. It’s cozy, filling, and perfect for fall or any time.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 300 per serving

Ingredients:
2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn
1/4 cup red onion, chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Roast potatoes with oil, salt, and pepper for 15 minutes.
Mix with beans, corn, red onion, and cilantro.
Dress with lime juice and oil; toss gently.
Serve warm or at room temp.

FAQs:
Try avocado for creaminess?
Yes, add diced avocado after mixing.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in a fridge for up to 2 days.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:09 AM

9. Cabbage and Apple Slaw

Crisp cabbage meets sweet apple for a lively side. The tangy dressing brings everything together in a quick, refreshing bite. It’s light, crunchy, and easy to toss together. Great for barbecues or as a quick lunch.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 150 per serving

Ingredients:
4 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 apple, julienned
1/4 cup carrots, grated
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Combine cabbage, apple, and carrot in a bowl.
Whisk mayo, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
Pour over salad and toss well.
Serve now or chill 30 minutes for flavor to meld.

FAQs:
Can I use yogurt instead of mayo?
Yes, swap in for a lighter version.
Will it keep overnight?
It stays crisp for about 1 day.

Cabbage and Apple Slaw

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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:09 AM

10. Roasted Beet Salad

Beets shine with a roasted sweetness and a nutty contrast. Goat cheese and walnuts add richness on a bed of greens, all tied together with balsamic glaze. It looks elite and tastes comforting. A great centerpiece side.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 250 per serving

Ingredients:
2 large beets, roasted and sliced
4 cups mixed greens
1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Roast beets until tender; cool and slice.
Layer greens with beets, goat cheese, and walnuts.
Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette; season lightly.
Serve immediately.

FAQs:
Can I roast beets earlier in the day?
Yes, up to 1 day ahead.
Can I swap goat cheese for feta?
Feta works but changes the flavor profile slightly.

Roasted Beet Salad

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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:09 AM

11. Avocado Citrus Salad

Creamy avocado meets zesty citrus in a bright, quick bowl. Mint leaves add a crisp refreshment that ties the flavors together. It’s perfect for brunch or a light dinner. Keep it simple, keep it fresh.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 200 per serving

Ingredients:
2 avocados, diced
2 oranges, peeled and segmented
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine avocados, oranges, red onion, and mint.
Drizzle with lime juice; season with salt and pepper.
Toss gently to keep avocados intact.
Serve immediately.

FAQs:
Can I add nuts for crunch?
Yes, almonds or pistachios work well.
Best eaten fresh, but can chill briefly.

Avocado Citrus Salad

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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:09 AM

12. Curried Chickpea Salad

A warm spice lift makes this a standout. Chickpeas hold their shape, while diced apple and raisins add sweetness. A creamy yogurt curry dressing rounds out the dish. Simple, flavorful, comforting.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 220 per serving

Ingredients:
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 apple, diced
1/4 cup raisins
Greek yogurt for the dressing
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Combine chickpeas, apple, and raisins in a bowl.
Whisk yogurt, curry powder, honey, salt, and pepper.
Pour dressing over mixture; toss to coat.
Chill 30 minutes to meld flavors if desired.

FAQs:
How spicy should it be?
Adjust curry to taste; start mild.
Best served with greens as a main.

Curried Chickpea Salad

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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:09 AM

13. Panzanella Salad

A rustic Italian classic that revels in bread and tomato. Stale bread soaks up a tangy dressing while cucumber and basil brighten the mix. It feels summery and easy.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 250 per serving

Ingredients:
4 cups stale bread, cubed
2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
In a large bowl, mix bread, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and basil.
Whisk oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Pour dressing over salad; toss gently.
Let sit 10 minutes so bread soaks up flavors.

FAQs:
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?
It will still work but texture changes slightly.
Best eaten fresh for crispness.

Panzanella Salad

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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:09 AM

14. Cilantro Lime Black Bean Salad

Zesty and bright, this side wakes up any plate. Black beans with corn and peppers get a lime kiss and fresh cilantro. It comes together in minutes. A weeknight staple.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 180 per serving

Ingredients:
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Combine beans, corn, and pepper in a bowl.
Whisk lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Pour dressing over and toss gently.
Serve now or chill for later.

FAQs:
Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?
Yes, it works fine.
Great on its own or with grilled foods.

Cilantro Lime Black Bean Salad

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:09 AM

15. Watermelon Feta Salad

Finish with a refreshing crowd pleaser. Juicy watermelon pairs with salty feta, bright mint, and a simple lime oil splash. It’s sunshine in a bowl and ultra easy. Perfect for hot days or casual gatherings.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 150 per serving

Ingredients:
4 cups watermelon, cubed
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste

Instructions:
In a bowl, mix watermelon, feta, and mint.
Drizzle lime juice and olive oil; season with salt.
Toss gently to keep watermelon intact.
Chill briefly if desired and serve.

FAQs:
Can I add jalapeños for heat?
Yes, add a few thin slices for a kick.
Best eaten fresh for the juiciest flavor.

Watermelon Feta Salad

Editor’s Choice

Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:10 AM

💡

Key Takeaways

Essential tips from this article

🥗

ESSENTIAL

Mix and Match Ingredients

Combine various vegetables, grains, and proteins to create unique flavors in your vegetarian salads.

⏱️

QUICK WIN

Prep Ahead for Speed

Chop and store ingredients in advance to save time when making salads under 20 minutes.

🍋

PRO TIP

Dress It Up

Experiment with different dressings to enhance the taste of your vegetarian salads and keep them exciting.

🌈

BEGINNER

Go for Color

Use a variety of colorful vegetables to make your salads visually appealing and nutritious.

🔥

ADVANCED

Add Heat for Flavor

Incorporate spices or chili flakes to elevate the flavor profile of your vegetarian salads.

🌿

ESSENTIAL

Fresh Herbs Boost Taste

Add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to enhance flavors and freshness in your salads.

Conclusion

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be a chore, especially with these quick and easy vegetarian salads! Each recipe is designed to be simple yet full of flavor, making it easy to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet. So whether you’re preparing for a busy week or planning a gathering, these salads are sure to impress!

Try them out and see which one becomes your new favorite. Happy salad making!

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2 thoughts on “15 Quick & Easy Vegetarian Salad Recipes Ready in Under 20 Minutes

  1. Khoedepez Blog says:

    These salads sound amazing! I once tried to make a salad with too many ingredients, and it turned into a veggie explosion all over my kitchen. At least it made for a funny story!

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