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As the colder months settle in, many of us crave hearty yet fresh meals that will nourish our bodies and keep us energized throughout the winter. Winter vegetarian salads are the perfect solution!
These salads combine seasonal produce with creative flavor combinations, offering a satisfying and vibrant alternative to heavier winter dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a filling lunch, a hearty side dish, or a light yet warming dinner, these winter vegetarian salad recipes have something for everyone.
Packed with wholesome ingredients like root vegetables, leafy greens, roasted squash, and fruits, these salads provide essential nutrients while bringing the best of winter produce to your table.
25+ Tasty & Healthy Winter Vegetarian Salad Recipes for Seasonal Eating
Winter doesn’t have to mean heavy meals that leave you feeling sluggish.
These 25+ winter vegetarian salad recipes prove that salads can be just as filling, nutritious, and warming as any other winter dish.
From roasted vegetable and grain salads to fresh citrus combinations, these salads offer endless possibilities for delicious, seasonal meals.
Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a satisfying side, these recipes are sure to inspire you to eat healthy, stay energized, and enjoy the flavors of the season.
Don’t let the cold weather hold you back from enjoying vibrant, nutritious meals. Try out these winter vegetarian salad ideas and savor the tastes of the season!
1. Roasted Root Vegetable Salad
This hearty winter salad is a delightful combination of roasted seasonal root vegetables, fresh greens, and a zesty dressing.
Start by roasting a mix of cubed sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The natural sweetness of these root vegetables pairs perfectly with the earthy tones of arugula and spinach.
To take it to the next level, top the salad with toasted walnuts and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.
The contrast of warm roasted veggies and crisp greens creates a comforting yet refreshing dish that’s perfect for the colder months.
Whether served as a main or a side, this salad will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
2. Winter Citrus & Pomegranate Salad
Brighten up your winter days with this refreshing citrus and pomegranate salad, packed with vibrant colors and fresh flavors.
Begin by peeling and segmenting a variety of citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and mandarins.
Add a handful of pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness and crunch. Toss the fruits with a bed of mixed greens like baby kale or arugula.
For added texture, sprinkle in some toasted almonds or pistachios. Dress it all with a light honey-lemon vinaigrette, which enhances the natural sweetness of the citrus fruits while balancing the bitterness of the greens.
This salad is a refreshing contrast to the heavier winter dishes, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a festive side dish.
3. Kale & Apple Salad with Maple Dressing
A robust winter salad that combines the earthy flavors of kale with the sweetness of crisp apples and a rich maple dressing.
Begin by massaging the kale with olive oil to soften it, making it easier to eat. Thinly slice tart green apples, and add them to the salad along with a handful of dried cranberries for a bit of chewy sweetness.
To elevate the flavors, create a maple dressing using pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
Toss everything together and top with crumbled feta or goat cheese, and a sprinkle of toasted sunflower seeds for crunch.
The sweetness of the apples and maple dressing perfectly complements the savory kale, making this salad an unforgettable addition to your winter meals.
4. Winter Squash & Spinach Salad
This nutrient-packed winter salad combines the warmth of roasted butternut squash with the freshness of spinach, creating a balance of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Start by roasting cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until golden and tender. In a large bowl, toss fresh spinach leaves with some toasted pumpkin seeds for an added crunch.
For extra richness, drizzle a creamy tahini dressing or a simple lemon vinaigrette over the greens.
Top the salad with the warm squash, some crumbled goat cheese, and a sprinkle of dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
This salad is perfect as a hearty main or as a side dish, especially during the colder months.
5. Brussels Sprouts & Pear Salad
A refreshing and earthy winter salad, this combination of roasted Brussels sprouts and juicy pears brings out the best of the season’s produce.
Start by trimming and halving Brussels sprouts, then roasting them with olive oil and a pinch of sea salt until they’re crispy and caramelized on the edges.
Thinly slice fresh pears and toss them in with the Brussels sprouts. For added depth, mix in some toasted hazelnuts or walnuts and a handful of baby arugula.
To finish, drizzle with a balsamic reduction or maple-balsamic vinaigrette.
The roasted Brussels sprouts’ slight bitterness pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of pears, making this salad a savory yet sweet winter delight.
6. Lentil & Beet Salad
Packed with protein and fiber, this hearty lentil and beet salad is perfect for a winter meal that’s both filling and nourishing. Cook lentils until tender, then set them aside to cool.
Meanwhile, roast beets until soft, then peel and slice them into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils with the roasted beets, adding some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy element.
Toss with some fresh spinach and top with a simple lemon and olive oil dressing to bring all the ingredients together.
For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted sunflower seeds or pine nuts over the top.
This vibrant, earthy salad is an excellent choice for those looking for a protein-packed, flavorful dish that keeps you warm and energized through the winter months.
7. Warm Mushroom & Barley Salad
This hearty salad combines the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms with the nutty richness of barley, making it the perfect cozy winter dish.
Start by cooking pearl barley until tender and fluffy, then set it aside. In a pan, sauté a mixture of your favorite mushrooms—such as cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms—with garlic and a little olive oil until golden and fragrant.
Add in some fresh thyme, salt, and pepper for extra flavor. Combine the cooked barley and mushrooms with baby spinach or arugula, and drizzle with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette or a warm mustard dressing.
Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or goat cheese for an extra creamy touch. This warm and filling salad is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave a comforting yet healthy meal.
8. Roasted Cauliflower & Chickpea Salad
For a protein-packed winter salad that’s both warm and filling, this roasted cauliflower and chickpea salad hits all the right notes.
Begin by tossing cauliflower florets and canned chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until crispy and golden.
Meanwhile, prepare a bed of mixed greens, such as arugula or baby kale. Once the roasted cauliflower and chickpeas are done, toss them together with the greens and drizzle with a lemon-tahini dressing for a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory veggies.
For an extra touch, sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or pine nuts on top. This salad is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s full of flavor and texture, perfect for a cozy winter lunch or dinner.
9. Pear & Gorgonzola Salad
This elegant winter salad combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the bold tanginess of Gorgonzola cheese, creating a sophisticated yet simple dish.
Start by slicing ripe pears and arranging them over a bed of baby spinach or mixed greens. Crumble Gorgonzola or blue cheese over the top, adding a creamy and tangy element to the salad.
For texture, sprinkle in some toasted walnuts or pecans, and for a burst of sweetness, drizzle a balsamic glaze or honey-balsamic vinaigrette over the entire salad.
The balance of flavors—from sweet and savory to creamy and crunchy—makes this pear and Gorgonzola salad a perfect winter dish to serve as a starter or side to a main course.
10. Sweet Potato & Avocado Salad
This vibrant winter salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes for a deliciously balanced dish.
Start by cubing sweet potatoes and roasting them with olive oil, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt until they’re crispy on the edges and soft on the inside.
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, slice ripe avocados and toss them with a handful of fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach.
Once the sweet potatoes are done, add them to the greens and avocado. For extra flavor, drizzle a simple lime dressing made with olive oil, lime juice, and a touch of honey.
You can also sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds or pepitas for a nice crunch. This salad is not only filling but also packed with healthy fats, making it a perfect winter dish to keep you satisfied.
11. Winter Kale & Quinoa Salad
Packed with protein, fiber, and a wide variety of textures, this winter kale and quinoa salad is a nourishing choice that will keep you full and energized throughout the day.
Start by cooking quinoa according to package instructions, then let it cool. Meanwhile, massage the kale leaves with olive oil and lemon juice to soften them and reduce their bitterness.
Combine the quinoa and kale in a large bowl, and add some roasted pumpkin cubes, sliced red onions, and dried cranberries for a hint of sweetness.
To finish, drizzle with a tangy Dijon-mustard vinaigrette and sprinkle with toasted almonds or walnuts for crunch.
This hearty salad offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect main dish or side for your winter meals.
12. Cabbage & Apple Slaw
A light and crunchy salad that brings together the freshness of cabbage with the crisp sweetness of apples, this cabbage and apple slaw is the perfect winter dish.
Start by thinly slicing red or green cabbage and combining it with julienned apples for a burst of natural sweetness. Add some grated carrots and red onions for extra color and flavor.
For the dressing, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Toss the cabbage and apples with the dressing and let the flavors meld together. For added crunch, you can sprinkle roasted sunflower seeds or chopped nuts.
This refreshing slaw is an excellent side dish for heavier winter meals, offering a bright, tangy contrast to rich flavors.
13. Roasted Beet & Walnut Salad
A gorgeous and nutritious salad, this roasted beet and walnut combination is perfect for adding color and flavor to your winter meals.
Begin by roasting whole beets wrapped in foil until tender, then peel and slice them into thin rounds. Toss the sliced beets with fresh mixed greens like arugula or baby spinach, and sprinkle with toasted walnuts for a crunchy, nutty texture.
For added creaminess, crumbled goat cheese or feta can be added to enhance the flavor.
Drizzle with a balsamic vinaigrette or a honey-mustard dressing for a sweet and tangy finish. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to any winter spread.
14. Carrot & Lentil Salad
This vibrant and filling salad is perfect for the colder months, offering both heartiness and a pop of color. Start by cooking green or brown lentils until tender, then set them aside to cool.
Grate fresh carrots and mix them with the cooked lentils. For extra flavor, toss in some finely chopped red onion, a handful of raisins or dried cranberries, and some fresh cilantro.
Drizzle with a lemon-tahini dressing or a simple olive oil and cumin vinaigrette to tie everything together.
This salad is not only packed with protein and fiber but also provides a perfect balance of earthy, tangy, and sweet flavors, making it an ideal choice for a nourishing winter meal.
15. Brussels Sprouts & Cranberry Salad
This tangy and hearty salad combines the bitterness of Brussels sprouts with the sweet tartness of cranberries, making it the perfect seasonal dish.
Start by thinly slicing fresh Brussels sprouts and tossing them in a bowl with dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and a handful of arugula or kale for an added peppery bite.
To balance the flavors, whisk up a simple dressing with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup, which will bring out the sweetness of the cranberries while mellowing the bitterness of the sprouts. For a richer touch, you can add crumbled goat cheese or sharp cheddar.
This salad is great as a side or a light main dish, offering a refreshing contrast to heavier winter meals.
16. Pomegranate & Roasted Carrot Salad
This vibrant and festive salad brings together the sweetness of roasted carrots with the juicy burst of pomegranate seeds for a delightful winter dish.
Start by peeling and cutting carrots into thin strips or rounds, then toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of cumin.
Roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized. While the carrots are roasting, prepare a bed of mixed greens such as arugula, spinach, or a blend of baby greens. Once the carrots are done, add them to the greens along with a generous handful of fresh pomegranate seeds.
Top with toasted almonds or pecans for added crunch. Drizzle with a citrusy dressing made from orange juice, olive oil, and honey for a fresh, sweet contrast.
This salad is a colorful and refreshing addition to any winter meal.
17. Apple & Celery Salad
A crisp and refreshing salad that’s perfect for balancing out heartier winter dishes, this apple and celery salad combines the fresh crunch of apples with the slight bitterness of celery.
Slice crisp apples and celery into thin, bite-sized pieces and toss them together in a bowl. For added flavor, include thinly sliced red onion and some chopped fresh parsley or mint.
To enhance the flavor, dress the salad with a light vinaigrette made from lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and a touch of maple syrup. For crunch, sprinkle with sunflower seeds or walnuts.
This salad is simple yet satisfying, offering a refreshing and healthy side for your winter meals.
18. Spinach & Pear Salad with Walnuts
This deliciously simple winter salad brings together the earthy taste of spinach with the sweetness of ripe pears and the crunch of walnuts, creating a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Start by slicing fresh pears and adding them to a bowl with baby spinach or arugula.
Add a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch and some crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese for a creamy element.
For the dressing, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, and a dash of Dijon mustard.
The sweet and tangy vinaigrette enhances the flavors of the pears and greens while balancing the richness of the cheese. This salad is a light yet satisfying addition to any winter meal, and it’s ideal as both a starter or a side dish.
19. Roasted Sweet Potato & Kale Salad
A comforting and nutritious winter salad, this combination of roasted sweet potatoes and kale provides both heartiness and freshness.
Start by roasting cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika until they’re golden and tender.
While the sweet potatoes roast, massage fresh kale with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice to soften it and reduce its bitterness.
Combine the roasted sweet potatoes with the kale and add some toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture. For a bit of sweetness, toss in dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds.
Drizzle with a maple mustard vinaigrette to tie everything together. This salad is not only filling but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a perfect choice for a winter meal.
20. Fennel & Citrus Salad
A refreshing and light salad that’s perfect for cutting through the heaviness of winter meals, this fennel and citrus salad offers a beautiful balance of flavors. Start by thinly slicing fennel bulbs and arranging them on a platter.
Add segmented oranges and grapefruits for a burst of citrusy sweetness, and scatter pomegranate seeds over the top for color and crunch. Toss with a handful of arugula for a peppery bite, and finish with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey.
For extra texture, sprinkle with toasted sunflower seeds or almonds. This salad is perfect as a side dish or starter, offering a refreshing and light contrast to the richer flavors of winter.
21. Spiced Chickpea & Spinach Salad
This flavorful and protein-packed salad is perfect for a warming winter meal. Start by roasting chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper until crispy.
While the chickpeas are roasting, toss fresh spinach with thinly sliced red onions, cucumber slices, and some cherry tomatoes for a touch of freshness. Once the chickpeas are done, add them to the salad, along with a handful of crumbled feta or goat cheese for creaminess.
Drizzle with a tahini-lemon dressing, and for an extra crunch, top with roasted pumpkin seeds or pine nuts. This salad combines spiced chickpeas with refreshing greens and tangy cheese, making it a satisfying and hearty dish perfect for the winter months.
22. Cauliflower & Apple Salad
A perfect combination of earthy and sweet flavors, this cauliflower and apple salad is both light and filling, making it a great choice for winter.
Begin by roasting cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of cumin until they’re tender and golden. While the cauliflower is roasting, slice crisp apples and toss them with a handful of baby spinach or mixed greens.
Once the cauliflower is done, add it to the salad, and sprinkle in some toasted almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
For a tangy finish, drizzle the salad with a simple apple cider vinaigrette made from apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, and Dijon mustard.
This salad is a delicious balance of roasted cauliflower, crunchy apples, and earthy greens—perfect for winter meals.
23. Beetroot & Goat Cheese Salad
This salad brings together the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the creamy richness of goat cheese, making it a great addition to any winter table.
Begin by roasting whole beets wrapped in foil until tender, then peel and slice them into thin rounds. Combine the beets with fresh arugula or mixed greens, and top with crumbled goat cheese for a creamy contrast.
For added texture and flavor, sprinkle with toasted walnuts or hazelnuts, and drizzle with a balsamic reduction or simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing.
The combination of warm, roasted beets and tangy goat cheese, paired with crunchy nuts, creates a satisfying and visually stunning salad that’s perfect for winter gatherings.
24. Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Potato Salad
A comforting and savory winter salad, this roasted Brussels sprouts and potato combination is hearty and packed with flavor.
Start by roasting Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until golden and crispy on the edges. Meanwhile, cube potatoes and roast them with garlic, thyme, and a bit of olive oil until soft and caramelized.
Once the vegetables are done, toss them together in a large bowl, along with some fresh arugula or kale for a pop of green.
For added flavor, drizzle with a Dijon mustard vinaigrette, and top with crispy bacon bits or crumbled feta cheese.
This salad is the perfect mix of savory roasted vegetables and fresh greens, making it a satisfying main or side dish for your winter meals.
25. Warm Farro & Roasted Veggie Salad
This wholesome winter salad combines the nutty flavor of farro with the roasted goodness of seasonal vegetables, creating a filling and flavorful dish.
Begin by cooking farro according to package instructions, then set it aside to cool. While the farro is cooking, roast a mix of root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary until golden and tender.
Toss the cooked farro with the roasted vegetables, adding in some fresh spinach or arugula for a peppery bite.
For added richness, sprinkle with crumbled feta or goat cheese, and drizzle with a balsamic vinaigrette or lemon-tahini dressing to tie everything together.
This salad is warm, hearty, and full of texture, making it an ideal choice for a cozy winter meal.
Conclusion
With so many incredible flavors and textures packed into each of these 25+ winter vegetarian salad recipes, you’ll never feel bored with your meals this season. These salads are not only easy to prepare but also adaptable to your personal preferences. Whether you love roasted root vegetables, zesty citrus, or creamy cheese, there’s a winter salad that fits your cravings. Eating plant-based and seasonal ingredients during the winter months is a fantastic way to boost your health and enjoy the diverse flavors of winter produce. Embrace the season with these healthy, satisfying, and delicious vegetarian salad recipes that will leave you feeling warm, nourished, and satisfied.
