Thanksgiving Side Salads

Save this recipe on:

The Thanksgiving table is known for its hearty dishes and comforting casseroles, but a refreshing, vibrant salad can bring a much-needed balance to the feast. This Thanksgiving Side Salad recipe is a colorful, crisp addition to your holiday spread, packed with seasonal flavors and satisfying textures. It’s a bowlful of freshness that complements rich turkey and creamy mashed potatoes effortlessly.

Featuring sweet cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, red onions, earthy walnuts, and creamy feta over a bed of crisp greens, this salad has something for everyone. It not only brightens up your plate but also adds a variety of nutrients to your holiday meal. Best of all? It comes together in just minutes, making it ideal for busy Thanksgiving prep.

What Kind of Greens Should I Use?

The beauty of this salad is its flexibility. You can use mixed greens, baby spinach, romaine, or arugula—whatever suits your palate. For a milder, buttery texture, opt for baby spinach or a spring mix. If you want a little bite, arugula adds a peppery kick that contrasts well with the feta and walnuts.

Ingredients for the Thanksgiving Side Salad

Mixed Greens or Spinach: The base of the salad, offering a fresh, crisp backdrop to the bold toppings.

Cherry Tomatoes: These little bursts of sweetness provide beautiful color and bright acidity.

Cucumbers: For a juicy crunch that adds hydration and freshness to every bite.

Red Onion: Sliced thinly, it adds just enough sharpness to cut through the creamy and sweet flavors.

Feta Cheese: Brings a tangy, creamy element that enhances the savory notes.

Walnuts: Toasted walnuts add warmth, crunch, and a hint of natural sweetness.

Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar: A simple, classic dressing that ties all the ingredients together with a touch of richness and tang.

---

How To Make the Thanksgiving Side Salad

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Rinse and dry your greens thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into rounds, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, start with the greens as your base. Layer on the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion slices.

Step 3: Add the Cheese and Nuts

Crumble feta cheese over the top and sprinkle with toasted walnuts.

Step 4: Drizzle the Dressing

Just before serving, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Toss gently to coat everything evenly without bruising the greens.

---

Serving and Storing This Salad

Serve this salad immediately after dressing to maintain its crunch and freshness. If you’re preparing ahead, keep the ingredients separated and combine just before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to one day, though the greens may wilt slightly after dressing.

What to Serve With Thanksgiving Side Salad?

Roasted Turkey

Naturally, this salad is made to complement your Thanksgiving bird.

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Balance out the cheesy richness with fresh greens. Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells

Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Great for a Thanksgiving twist on traditional poultry. Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

A crunchy, tangy salad cuts through the creamy goodness. Au Gratin Potatoes

Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Enhances the salad’s tomato freshness. Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Marry Me Chicken

This rich dish pairs wonderfully with something crisp. Marry Me Chicken

Roasted Parmesan Green Beans

Both light and savory, a natural salad sidekick. Roasted Parmesan Green Beans

French Onion Casserole

Add texture to the creamy, indulgent casserole. French Onion Casserole

---

Want More Salad Ideas That Shine on the Side?

If this Thanksgiving Side Salad is a hit at your table, check out these other standout recipes:

• The Ultimate Italian Grinder Salad for a bold, deli-style option.
• Easy Asian Slaw to bring a zesty crunch to your meal.
• Amazing Shrimp Pasta Salad for a seafood twist.
• Strawberry Spinach Salad if you’re craving fruit-forward freshness.
• Classic Chicken Salad for a heartier side or light lunch.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Thanksgiving or holiday board on Pinterest so you can find it easily next season.

And if you try it out, let me know how you made it your own. Did you swap the feta for goat cheese? Add cranberries or apples? I’d love to hear your twist!

Discover more fresh, seasonal dishes by browsing ChefAlchemy’s full recipe collection on Pinterest.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: