Explore a variety of salad topping ideas to add flavor and nutrition to your greens. From Asian-inspired twists to vegan delights, discover creative ways to elevate your salad game.
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall. Gimme a Hugh Jass salad and I’m usually a pretty happy gal.
My favorite time of day to eat a salad is for lunch (check out these filling salads for lunch). I find it so easy to build a lunch by piling a DIY dressing (I have a bunch of those here!) and greens into a giant bowl and piling on proteins, fats, and carbs until it feels like it’s gonna fill me up! Sometimes my salads are classic – arugula with a simple olive oil and vinegar mix with chicken and some crumbled cheese. And sometimes I get a little off the beaten path with my topping ideas. (I know fruit on a salad is a very polarizing concept!)
Incorporating salads into your diet (whether daily or weekly) is a fantastic way to infuse your diet with essential vitamins and minerals. Greens offer a plethora of health benefits, from aiding digestion to providing a boost of energy. However, it’s the toppings that turn a bland salad into some I crave. They can add texture, flavor, sweetness, and crunch!
Today I’m sharing a roundup of healthy salad topping ideas that will elevate your salad game. Whether you’re a salad enthusiast or someone looking to add more greens to your diet, you’re sure to feel inspired to create salads that are not just nutritious but also incredibly delicious.
26 Salad Topping Ideas
Asian Salad Toppings Ideas
1. Edamame
- Packed with protein.
- Adds a delightful crunch.
2. Dried Seaweed
- Brings a unique umami flavor.
- High in essential minerals.
3. Sesame Seeds
- Nutty flavor and rich in healthy fats.
- Adds a textural element.
- A flavorful dressing alternative.
- Incorporates probiotics.
Caesar Salad Topping Ideas
5. Parmesan Crisps – you can find pre-made at the grocery store – Trader Joe’s are great!
- Crispy and cheesy.
- Low-carb option.
6. Anchovy Fillets – you know how I feel about tinned fish!
- Adds a salty kick.
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
7. Crouton Alternatives
- Roasted chickpeas or quinoa – two of my favorites to put in a salad.
- Adds protein and crunch.
8. Hard Boiled Egg or Grilled Chicken
- Adds protein.
Fruit Salad Topping Ideas
9. Pomegranate Arils
- Burst of sweetness.
- Loaded with antioxidants.
10. Fresh Mango Slices or Cubes
- Tropical sweetness.
- High in vitamins A and C.
11. Candied Walnuts
- Sweet and crunchy.
- Provides a dose of healthy fats.
Green Salad Topping Ideas
12. Avocado Slices
- Creamy texture.
- Excellent source of healthy fat.
13. Cucumber Ribbons
- Adds freshness and hydration.
- Low in calories.
14. Fresh Herbs Mix
- A great addition to elevate flavor – I love adding fresh dill!
15. Feta Cheese (great on Mediterranean salads)
16. Dried Fruit (like dried cranberries or currants)
Taco Salad Topping Ideas
17. Corn Salsa – or even my black bean corn dip
- Sweet and tangy.
- Great way to add extra fiber.
18. Jalapeño Slices
- Adds a spicy kick.
19. Sour Cream Drizzle
- Creamy and cooling.
- Balanced with other ingredients.
20. Tortilla Chips
- Crumble on top for extra crunch.
Vegan Salad Topping Ideas
- Protein-packed.
- Provides a crunchy element.
22. Nutritional Yeast
- Cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Rich in B vitamins.
23. Tahini Dressing
Check out my homemade salad dressings eBook!
- Creamy and nutty.
- Source of healthy fats.
- Great source of vitamins.
25. Roasted Bell Peppers (can find these in a jar)
26. Kidney Beans
Do you have any favorite salad toppers that didn’t make this list?
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