Want to maintain a high protein intake without sacrificing flavor? Look no further than these 20 mouth-watering salads that just happen to be packed with protein!
Not only will they help you shed pounds, but the satiating effects of protein will keep you feeling fuller for longer. And let’s not forget about the metabolism boost – it’s like your body is working overtime to burn even more fat!
Warm Tuna Salad (23 grams of protein)
Canned tuna is a nutritious and convenient food choice, boasting not only protein but also brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids. This versatile ingredient deserves to be savored in its various forms. The recipe that follows showcases the tuna’s flavor potential when paired with sautéed celery and red cabbage, which adds a satisfying crunch and pop of color. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice introduces a tangy freshness, while ginger and mustard seeds bring a delightful warmth. This well-rounded dish is not only delicious but also provides a balanced nutritional profile.Per serving:Calories: 239Fats: 11gProtein: 23gCarbs: 13gFiber: 3gSugar: 5g
Lobster Cobb Salad (23g protein)
If you’re a seafood enthusiast, this indulgent salad is sure to satisfy your cravings. While traditional Cobb salads often feature chicken as the main attraction, this recipe takes a luxurious detour with succulent lobster tails taking center stage. The result? A flavor profile that’s just as impressive as its classic counterpart. With a medley of textures and tastes, each bite combines tender lobster pieces, creamy avocado, crispy bacon, tangy blue cheese, satisfying hard-boiled eggs, and sweet grape tomatoes. Per serving, this decadent delight yields: Calories – 399; Fats – 28g; Protein – 23g; Carbs – 14g; Fiber – 2g; Sugar – 2g.
Vegan Cobb Salad With Cheesy Dressing (13g protein)
Imagine a culinary symphony, where the harmonious blend of smoky and sweet notes takes center stage. Smoked paprika-infused mushrooms bring a deep, savory flavor profile, while maple syrup and red onions add a touch of sweetness. The crunch of romaine lettuce provides a delightful textural contrast, which is beautifully balanced by the creamy richness of avocado. This delightful combination of flavors and textures is not only delicious but also nutritious, boasting an impressive nutritional profile per serving: 237 calories, 6g of fat, 13g of protein, 37g of carbohydrates, 10g of fiber, and a moderate 7g of sugar.
Caesar Salad With Roasted Shrimp (34g protein)
Indulge in a delightful blend of succulent shrimp, crisp lettuce, and crunchy croutons, elevated by the rich flavors of homemade Caesar salad dressing. This recipe is so impressive that you may never resort to store-bought alternatives again.
To preserve the texture of your salad and prevent sogginess, consider utilizing a reliable salad spinner. A quality option at an affordable price point can make all the difference in keeping your greens fresh.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):
Calories: 311
Fats: 15g
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 4g
BBQ Chicken Salad (28g protein)
A vibrant array of colors greets your senses as you gaze upon the medley of vegetables and legumes. The golden hues of corn, the deep crimson of bell peppers and onions, the sunny yellow of shredded cheese, and the vibrant orange of carrots all come together to create a stunning display. Meanwhile, in the background, the Instant Pot – my trusty sidekick – hums along, effortlessly cooking this delectable mix. While it’s true that crockpots can achieve similar results at a lower price point, I firmly believe that the Instant Pot is an invaluable addition to any kitchen. Here’s why: Per serving, this recipe boasts an impressive nutritional profile.
Per Serving:
Calories: 520
Fats: 22g
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 53g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 20g
Recipe
Arugula Steak Salad With Farro (41.5g protein)
Savoring the perfect blend of flavors and textures, this dish boasts tender steaks served atop a peppery arugula bed, where crumbly feta cheese adds a tangy creaminess. The sweet and sticky notes from maple syrup provide a delightful contrast to the savory elements. This harmonious union is elevated by the warmth of cinnamon, which skillfully balances the earthy undertones of farro. Not only does this dish tantalize the taste buds, but it also presents a nutritious package, with each serving offering a satisfying combination of calories, protein, and fiber.
Fresh Vegan Salad With Hummus (31g protein)
This salad is a game-changer, boasting an impressive amount of healthy fats courtesy of its star ingredient – sun-dried tomatoes. The combination with leafy greens creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Beyond its deliciousness, hemp hearts also offer numerous health benefits, including the potential to alleviate symptoms associated with PMS. If you’re interested in incorporating this nutritious addition into your diet, you can easily source high-quality hemp hearts through the provided link.
Kale Chicken & Apple Salad (30g protein)
This salad is a masterclass in harmonizing flavors and textures. The tender chicken provides a boost of protein, while the carrots and red apples add natural sweetness. A hint of tartness from the green apples expertly balances out the sweetness. The mayonnaise adds a rich and creamy element to the mix, tying everything together seamlessly. And let’s not overlook the star of the show: kale. This superfood is packed with vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants that will have you feeling like a brand new person. With each bite, you’ll be getting 441 calories, including 25g of fat, 30.3g of protein, 25.8g of carbs, 5.9g of fiber, and just 15.1g of sugar per serving.
Mayo-Free Cranberry Apple Chicken Salad (20g protein)
If you’re a fan of chicken salad but not a fan of mayo, this creamy alternative is definitely worth trying. To make the cashew cream sauce, start by soaking your cashews in water for about two hours. Once they’ve rehydrated, add them to a blender along with some water, garlic, and salt. I find that using a high-powered blender ensures the sauce turns out smooth and creamy, rather than chunky.
Nutritional Information Per Serving:
Calories: 351
Fats: 20g
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 16g
Recipe:
Easy Chicken Salad With Grapes (26g protein)
Imagine a delightful harmony of flavors and textures, where tender chicken meets crunchy almonds. The freshness of crisp celery and lettuce is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of red grapes, while apricots add a tangy twist. This symphony of flavors is brought to life in each serving, with a nutritional profile that includes: Calories: 326, Fats: 15g, Protein: 26g, Carbs: 25g, Fiber: 4g, and Sugar: 19g.
Roasted Shrimp Pasta Salad (33g protein)
This succulent shrimp pasta salad is not only a delight to the palate, but it’s also an excellent source of protein, making it a satisfying standalone meal. The tender shrimp are lightly seasoned with pepper and salt, allowing their natural flavor to shine through. Meanwhile, the orzo is infused with a zesty lemon vinaigrette that harmonizes beautifully with the succulent seafood. With a nutrient profile that boasts 429 calories, 20g of fats, 33g of protein, 36g of carbohydrates, and a respectable 3g of fiber per serving, this recipe checks all the right boxes for a healthy and delicious meal.
Blackberry Balsamic Grilled Chicken Salad (31g protein)
Savor the flavors of perfectly cooked chicken breasts, accompanied by a trio of vibrant vegetables – leafy greens, broccoli, and cauliflower. The rich creaminess of avocado provides a delightful contrast to the satisfying crunch of pecans. And don’t worry if you don’t have a grill; an iron skillet is a great alternative. Not only can it impart a beautiful sear to the chicken, but it’s also oven-safe, making it a convenient option for those without a grill. If you’re looking to upgrade your cookware, you can find an iron skillet here. Per serving, this recipe offers a nutritional profile that’s hard to beat: 530 calories, with 36g of fat, 31g of protein, 25g of carbohydrates, and a respectable 13g of fiber. Plus, it contains just 7g of sugar.
Tuna & Sweet Potato Salad (30g protein)
Tuna salad enthusiasts, prepare to be amazed! The addition of sweet potatoes takes this classic dish to a whole new level. Gone are the days of traditional pasta-based tuna salads, as we introduce a game-changing twist. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes beautifully balances the creaminess of the mayo, while the celery and red pepper add a delightful crunch. And let’s not forget the dill pickles, which bring a tangy, salty flavor to the mix – it’s a true culinary celebration!
Steak Salad With Blue Cheese, Butternut Squash, & Cranberries (31g protein)
Ditch the traditional steak and potatoes combo for a surprisingly satisfying steak salad instead. Thinly sliced, melt-in-your-mouth steak pairs perfectly with roasted Butternut squash and sweet cranberries infused with honey’s subtle tang. A tangy blue cheese adds depth of flavor, while fresh spinach brings a burst of vibrancy to each bite. This game-changing twist on steak will leave you feeling invigorated and energized, ready to tackle the day ahead. As for the nutritional benefits, here’s what you can expect from this delightful dish: Per serving, you’ll get approximately 527 calories, with a breakdown of 30.5g of fat, 31g of protein, 34.5g of carbohydrates, and 5g of fiber. Sugar content comes in at 18.5g.
Roasted Cauliflower Salad With Lentils & Grapes (9g protein)
Luscious lentils mingle with luscious grapes, their flavors harmonizing in a delightful union. Meanwhile, the cauliflower is transformed by a medley of olive oil, turmeric, and curry powder, emerging rich and caramelized. The crowning glory is the salad dressing, a true masterpiece that combines creaminess, sweetness, earthy undertones, and a golden hue, begging to be devoured in excess.
Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:
Calories: 217; Fats: 1g; Protein: 9g; Carbs: 34g; Fiber: 9g; Sugar: 17g
Curry Chicken Salad (39g protein)
Satisfy your cravings for Indian flavors with this innovative salad, which cleverly captures the essence of chicken curry in a fresh and healthy way. Not only is it a culinary delight, but it’s also packed with nutrients that will keep you going all day long.
nThe tender chunks of chicken are perfectly balanced by the crunch of celery, while the sweetness of grapes pairs beautifully with the nutty flavor of roasted cashews. This salad is truly greater than the sum of its parts, offering a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more.
nPer Serving:
nCalories: 491
Fats: 24g
Protein: 39g
Carbs: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 18g
Beef & Mint Salad (35g protein)
Looking to strike a balance between your love for beef and the desire to incorporate more veggies into your diet? Look no further than this delectable beef and mint salad. The tender, shredded beef is perfectly complemented by the crunchy texture of the radishes and the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Per serving, you can expect:
– Calories: 341
– Fat content: 17g
– Protein: 35g
– Carbohydrates: 12g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sugar: 5g
Roasted Beet Salad With Goat Cheese, Spinach & Thyme (20g protein)
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this vegetarian salad, boasting a harmonious blend of roasted beets, fresh baby spinach, and succulent oranges. The crowning glory is a trio of textures – creamy goat cheese, crunchy sunflower seeds, and tender greens. But what truly sets this dish apart is its impressive nutritional profile. Beets, for instance, are a treasure trove of nitrates, which have been shown to effectively lower blood pressure and enhance athletic performance. With each bite, you’ll be savoring not only the delightful combination of flavors but also the benefits that come with it.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):
Calories: 350
Fats: 23g
Protein: 20g
Carbs: 19g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 11g
Thai Chicken Salad (11g protein)
Savor the bold flavors of this delectable Thai Chicken Salad, where succulent grilled chicken breasts meet a symphony of textures. The star of the show is undoubtedly the spicy chicken, perfectly charred to add depth and excitement to each bite. To create this culinary masterpiece, you’ll combine the chicken with an assortment of fresh vegetables, including crisp lettuce, crunchy yellow and red bell peppers, plump grape tomatoes, and sweet carrots. The crowning glory is a rich Thai-inspired peanut sauce that balances sweetness and tanginess in perfect harmony.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 202
Fats: 7g
Protein: 11g
Carbs: 24g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 9g
Recipe
Easy Greek Salad With Rotisserie Chicken (23g protein)
A culinary masterpiece awaits with this Greek-inspired salad, boasting a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Rich feta cheese provides a creamy base, while the pungency of kalamata olives adds a salty depth. Juicy tomatoes burst with flavor, complemented by sweet red onions and crisp lettuce. The crowning glory is tender shredded chicken, perfectly balanced by the tanginess of balsamic vinaigrette. To streamline preparation, simply grab a rotisserie chicken from your local market. For those curious about the nutritional profile, each serving yields: Calories – 310, Fat – 18g, Protein – 23g, Carbohydrates – 15g, Fiber – 4g, and Sugar – 8g.
