Are you tired of the same old salads at every gathering? Look no further! Meat salad recipes are a great way to add some excitement to your meal routine. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a family dinner, or just need a quick and easy lunch, these 18 flavorful meat salad recipes have got you covered.
From classic combinations like grilled steak and arugula, to international twists like spicy Thai beef and Mediterranean lamb, there’s something for every taste and occasion. We’ve rounded up our favorite meat salads that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these mouthwatering recipes, including tips on how to customize them to your liking and make them perfect for any gathering.
Grilled Steak and Arugula Salad
This simple yet elegant salad combines the rich flavor of grilled steak with the peppery bite of arugula, all tied together with a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season steak with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
2. Let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine arugula, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Toss to combine.
5. Slice grilled steak and place on top of salad. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Beef Salad
This Spicy Thai Beef Salad recipe is a flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional salads. With the combination of spicy chilies, tangy lime juice, and savory beef, this salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1-2 teaspoons Thai chili flakes (depending on desired spiciness)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Slice the beef into thin strips and cook in a skillet with a little oil until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and scallions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, ginger, and Thai chili flakes.
4. Add the cooked beef to the salad and toss with the dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Classic Chicken Caesar Salad
A timeless favorite, this Classic Chicken Caesar Salad is a simple yet satisfying meal that combines the rich flavors of grilled chicken, crispy romaine lettuce, and tangy Caesar dressing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and place on top of salad.
5. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pulled Pork Coleslaw Salad
This refreshing salad combines the tangy flavors of coleslaw with the rich taste of pulled pork, making it a perfect side dish for any barbecue or picnic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded pulled pork
– 2 cups coleslaw mix (cabbage, carrots, and onions)
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded pulled pork, coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
2. Toss until the slaw is well coated with the dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Mediterranean Lamb Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Mediterranean Lamb Salad combines the flavors of juicy lamb, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy vegetables for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked lamb shoulder or leg, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced lamb, crumbled feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, olives, and artichoke hearts.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 4 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (all ingredients are pre-cooked)
Asian-Inspired Beef Noodle Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional noodle salads, this Asian-inspired dish combines the savory flavors of beef and noodles with crunchy vegetables and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (bean sprouts, bok choy, carrots)
– 1 cup snap peas, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook beef strips in 1 tsp of sesame oil until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil for the dressing.
4. Combine cooked noodles, beef strips, mixed greens, snap peas, and cilantro in a large bowl.
5. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Corn Salad
Savor the flavors of summer with this delicious BBQ chicken and corn salad, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and olive oil.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let cool.
4. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, red bell pepper, and onion.
5. Cut cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the bowl with vegetables.
6. Toss everything together to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve on top of mixed greens.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herb-Marinated Turkey Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this Herb-Marinated Turkey Salad combines the tenderness of cooked turkey with the brightness of fresh herbs and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the diced turkey to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Just before serving, toss the mixed greens with the marinated turkey.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None (marinating time: at least 30 minutes to overnight)
Smoked Salmon and Avocado Salad
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing combination of smoked salmon, creamy avocado, and tangy lemon.
Ingredients:
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and flaked smoked salmon.
2. Add the diced avocado on top of the salad.
3. Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the salad.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Greek Meatball Salad
Greek Meatball Salad Recipe
This hearty salad combines flavorful meatballs with fresh greens, tangy feta cheese, and a drizzle of zesty dressing for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Greek vinaigrette dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Combine greens, feta cheese, olives, and tomatoes in a large bowl.
7. Add warm meatballs to the salad and toss gently.
8. Drizzle with Greek vinaigrette dressing and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Chicken and Mango Salad
This Caribbean-inspired salad combines the bold flavors of jerk chicken with the sweetness of fresh mango, all on a bed of crisp mixed greens. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breast in a baking dish and brush with the jerk mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mixed greens, mango, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro in a large bowl.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the salad.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Bulgogi Beef Salad
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this simple yet vibrant salad featuring tender bulgogi beef and a medley of crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), marinated in Korean chili flakes, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame oil for dressing
Instructions:
1. Grill the marinated beef until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, carrots, cucumber, and toasted sesame seeds.
3. Slice the grilled beef into thin strips and add to the salad.
4. Drizzle with Gochujang and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Finish with a light drizzle of sesame oil.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Bacon and Egg Cobb Salad
A classic cobb salad with a twist! This recipe combines the flavors of crispy bacon, savory eggs, and fresh greens for a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 large eggs, hard-boiled and diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, crumbled bacon, diced eggs, cherry tomatoes, and blue cheese.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lamb Salad
This vibrant salad combines the rich flavors of Moroccan spices with tender lamb and a medley of fresh vegetables, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add lamb strips to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Grill or pan-fry lamb until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. In a large bowl, combine bell pepper, parsley, feta cheese (if using), and lemon juice.
6. Slice the cooked lamb into thin strips and add to the salad.
7. Toss gently to combine and serve.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours (marinating time) + 5-7 minutes per side for grilling or pan-frying the lamb.
Pulled Chicken Taco Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines tender pulled chicken with crunchy taco-inspired toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Shred chicken with two forks and stir in taco seasoning.
6. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced tomatoes, shredded red cabbage, queso fresco, and cilantro.
7. Top salad with pulled chicken and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Beef Salad
A refreshing and flavorful Vietnamese-inspired salad that combines the bold flavors of lemongrass with tender beef and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, and sugar.
2. Add the sliced beef to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Grill the beef strips until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. In a separate pan, sauté the lemongrass and garlic until fragrant.
5. Combine the grilled beef, lemongrass mixture, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber in a bowl.
6. Toss to combine and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Italian Sausage and Pepper Salad
Italian Sausage and Pepper Salad Recipe
A flavorful and refreshing twist on a classic salad, this Italian sausage and pepper combination is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
– 2 medium red onions, thinly sliced
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook Italian sausage for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers and onions; cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cooked sausage, and pepper mixture. Top with mozzarella cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Edamame Salad
A sweet and savory combination of juicy chicken, tender edamame, and crunchy veggies, this Teriyaki Chicken and Edamame Salad is perfect for a quick and delicious meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup shelled edamame
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Cook edamame according to package instructions.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, edamame, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for a delicious and satisfying salad that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further! This article features 18 flavorful meat salad recipes that are sure to please. From classic combinations like grilled steak and arugula, to spicy twists like Thai beef and jerk chicken, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and filling, these salads have got you covered. So go ahead and get creative with your next meal – and don’t forget to save room for seconds!
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