Are you looking for delicious and healthy salad recipes that fit your Weight Watcher’s diet? Look no further! In this article, we will share 20 mouth-watering salad recipes that are not only tasty but also nutritious. Whether you’re a fan of classic Greek flavors or bold Asian-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone on this list.
From the creamy Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad to the crunchy and refreshing Asian Crunch Salad with Ginger Dressing, these salads are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your diet goals. With ingredients like quinoa, black beans, corn, and avocado, you’ll be getting a boost of protein, fiber, and healthy fats in each salad.
In this article, we will explore the world of weight-conscious eating and show you that salads don’t have to be boring or bland. So without further ado, let’s dive into these 20 delicious Weight Watcher salad recipes and start cooking up some amazing meals!
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this Greek-inspired recipe combines the creaminess of yogurt with the tanginess of feta cheese and the crunch of fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, yogurt, feta cheese, cucumber, and bell pepper.
2. Mix until well combined, but still chunky.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Asian Crunch Salad with Ginger Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the crunch of Asian-style slaw with the spicy kick of ginger dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded napa cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, scallions, and sesame seeds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, grated ginger, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Southwest Black Bean and Corn Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the heartiness of black beans with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a zesty Southwest package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeño peppers for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the warmed black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus time for cooking black beans if not using canned)
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
A vibrant and healthy salad that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the bright, Mediterranean-inspired flavors of Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth. Let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, parsley, mint, olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (includes cooking quinoa)
Skinny Taco Salad with Avocado Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Mexico with a creamy and healthy twist. With its vibrant colors and satisfying crunch, this Skinny Taco Salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled reduced-fat cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/2 avocado, peeled and pitted
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, black beans, diced tomatoes, and red bell pepper.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the avocado with lime juice until smooth.
3. Pour the avocado dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle with reduced-fat cheddar cheese, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Apple Walnut Spinach Salad
A fresh and healthy salad that combines the sweetness of apples with the earthiness of spinach, all tied together with crispy walnuts and a tangy vinaigrette. This perfect fall salad is ready in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 large apple, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves.
2. Add the diced apple and chopped walnuts to the bowl.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, tossing to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Arugula Salad
A bright and zesty salad featuring succulent shrimp, peppery arugula, and a tangy lemon-garlic dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat with the lemon mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
5. Roast shrimp in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. In a large bowl, combine arugula leaves, Parmesan cheese (if using), and roasted shrimp.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad Recipe
This salad is a perfect combination of sweet beets, tangy goat cheese, and fresh greens. It’s an ideal side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped nuts.
5. Arrange roasted beet slices on top of the salad mixture.
6. Drizzle with apple cider vinegar and honey.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes (roasting beets) + assembly time
Kale Caesar Salad with Light Dressing
This healthier take on the classic Caesar salad replaces traditional romaine lettuce with nutrient-dense kale and reduces the amount of dressing for a lighter, fresher taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought light Caesar dressing (see below for simple recipe)
– 1/2 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Light Caesar Dressing:
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Massage kale leaves with a pinch of salt for about 2 minutes.
3. Drizzle light Caesar dressing over the kale and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle croutons, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice over the salad.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required (all prep work). Prep time: approximately 15-20 minutes.
Thai Peanut Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this Thai-inspired recipe combines the flavors of peanut butter, soy sauce, and chili flakes with juicy chicken and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and chili flakes until smooth.
2. Add the diced chicken and stir until well coated with the peanut mixture.
3. Stir in the chopped red bell pepper and cucumber.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (prep time: 10 minutes, chill time: 30 minutes)
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your summer salads with this classic Italian-inspired Caprese salad, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and creamy basil, all tied together with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (see Balsamic Glaze recipe below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Balsamic Glaze:
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange tomato slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast tomatoes in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and sugar in a small saucepan.
6. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
7. Assemble the salad by layering roasted tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil leaves on a plate.
8. Drizzle with the balsamic glaze and serve immediately.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes (for roasting tomatoes)
Broccoli and Bacon Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing
A fresh and flavorful salad that combines the crunch of broccoli, the smokiness of bacon, and the tanginess of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine broccoli and crumbled bacon.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Zucchini Noodle Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
A refreshing summer salad that combines the best of healthy ingredients and flavors. This zucchini noodle salad is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and honey until smooth.
4. Toss the zucchini noodles with the lemon tahini dressing until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chickpea and Cucumber Salad
This salad is a perfect combination of creamy chickpeas, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy dressing, making it an excellent side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber slices, red onion, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Avocado Egg Salad Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on the classic egg salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the richness of eggs and a hint of tanginess from lemon juice. Perfect for a light lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and diced
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 lettuce leaves ( Romaine or Iceberg work well)
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced eggs, mashed avocado, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place a lettuce leaf on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the egg salad onto the center of the lettuce.
4. Fold the lettuce leaves over the filling to form a wrap.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
A refreshing twist on the classic spinach salad, this recipe combines sweet strawberries with savory spinach and a tangy poppy seed dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and sliced strawberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
3. Add chopped nuts and crumbled feta cheese (if using) to the dressing and stir until combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the spinach mixture and toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle poppy seeds on top of the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad
Savor the sweet and tangy combination of grilled peaches, peppery arugula, and creamy goat cheese in this refreshing summer salad.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush peach slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill peaches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
4. In a large bowl, combine arugula, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped pecans.
5. Once grilled, let peaches cool slightly before adding them to the salad.
6. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and toss gently to combine.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Salad
This vibrant salad captures the flavors of traditional Mexican street corn, with grilled corn, creamy avocado, tangy lime juice, and a hint of smoky chili powder.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears, turning occasionally, until slightly charred and tender (about 10-12 minutes).
3. In a large bowl, combine grilled corn, diced avocado, lime juice, chili powder, and queso fresco.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Add mixed greens on top of the pasta mixture.
4. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Warm Sweet Potato and Kale Salad
This autumnal salad combines roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of kale, all wrapped up in a warm and cozy package.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add kale leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Toss roasted sweet potatoes with wilted kale, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes