20+ Winter Salad Recipes For An Easy Dinner

There’s something incredibly satisfying about indulging in a hearty winter dinner salad. These salads are not just a side dish; they are vibrant, nourishing meals that celebrate winter’s bounty. Packed with roasted vegetables, hearty grains, and bold flavors, winter dinner salads provide the perfect balance of warmth and freshness to brighten up any dreary evening.

Try a warm roasted butternut squash salad, drizzled with a zesty tahini dressing or a comforting wild rice salad that combines nutty flavors with crispy greens. These recipes will keep you cozy all through winter. From kale salads dressed in maple-balsamic vinaigrette to lentil salads brimming with roasted garlic, each salad recipe brings its own unique twist to the table.

My favorite selection of warm winter salads are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, catering to all dietary preferences while making use of seasonal ingredients.

So, whether you’re looking to impress your dinner guests or simply want a nourishing meal for yourself, join me as we explore the best winter dinner salad recipes that will warm your heart and satisfy your appetite!

Roasted butternut squash salad

This roasted butternut squash salad is a warm embrace on chilly winter nights.

The sweet, caramelized squash pairs beautifully with tangy pickled red onions and the crunch of toasted nuts, creating a delightful texture and flavor contrast. Tossed with massaged kale and drizzled in a zesty lemon dijon dressing, it’s hearty enough to be a satisfying dinner.

Add feta and dried cranberries for a touch of creaminess and sweetness, making this salad not just nutritious, but also comforting and vibrant.

We love: Roasted Butternut Squash Salad Recipe (by Our Nourishing Table)

Sweet potato and lentil salad with tahini dressing

This simple sweet potato lentil salad brings warmth and comfort to your winter dinner table.

Roasted sweet potatoes and hearty lentils create a satisfying base, while the roasted garlic tahini dressing adds creamy richness and depth. Chopped almonds provide a delightful crunch, and fresh parsley brightens every bite. Toss everything together and enjoy a cozy, nutritious meal perfect for chilly evenings.

It’s easy to make and designed for leftovers, ensuring you can savor this dish all week long.

We love: Simple Sweet Potato Lentil Salad with Roasted Garlic Tahini Dressing (by The Banana Diaries)

Sheet pan kale salad

This sheet pan warm kale salad is a cozy winter meal that warms both the heart and the palate.

Tender butternut squash and savory Italian sausage blend perfectly with fresh kale, tangy feta, and crunchy pistachios. The easy sheet pan method makes preparation a breeze, while the creamy maple Dijon mustard dressing ties everything together.

Serve it warm for a satisfying dinner that feels like a hug on a cold night—perfect for family gatherings or a quiet dinner at home.

We love: Sheet Pan Warm & Vibrant Kale Salad (by KALEJUNKIE)

Fall salad with maple-lime dressing

This fall salad with maple-lime dressing is just as cozy for a winter dinner!

Roasted butternut squash adds a sweet, earthy flavor while toasted pumpkin seeds and dried cranberries provide crunch and texture. The creamy goat cheese brings richness, balancing the vibrant dressing made with maple syrup and lime.

This colorful dish not only delights the senses but also fills you up, making it a satisfying addition to your winter meals. Enjoy it as a hearty main or a festive side dish.

We love: Fall Salad with Maple-Lime Dressing (by Julia’s Album)

Kale salad with tahini dressing

This kale salad with tahini dressing brings comfort and nutrition to your winter dinner table.

Tender kale and crunchy Brussels sprouts create a hearty base, while the creamy tahini dressing adds richness and depth. Toasted hazelnuts provide a delightful crunch, elevating every bite.

Simply massage the kale with extra virgin olive oil and salt to soften it, then toss in the vibrant dressing. For a cozy winter dinner salad, add strips of grilled halloumi.

We love: Kale Salad With Tahini Dressing (by Non-Guilty Pleasures)

Roasted veggie lentil salad

This roasted veggie lentil salad shines as a winter dinner option.

Hearty lentils and roasted Brussels sprouts combine beautifully with sweet butternut squash and tangy goat cheese. The warm vegetables add comfort to your meal while fresh herbs and a maple-mustard dressing bring a delightful brightness. Toss everything together for a filling dish that’s perfect for meal prep.

Serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy a nourishing salad that warms both body and soul on chilly evenings.

We love: Roasted Veggie Lentil Salad (by Dishing Out Health)

Wild rice salad

This wild rice salad offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for winter dinners.

The nutty wild rice pairs beautifully with roasted sweet potatoes and crisp greens, creating a filling yet refreshing dish. Sprinkling in vibrant pomegranate arils and creamy feta adds a festive touch. The honey-lemon dressing brightens everything up, making each bite satisfying and invigorating.

Serve it alongside your favorite protein for a cozy meal that feels both hearty and light when the temperatures drop.

We love: Wild Rice Salad (by Chelsea’s Messy Apron)

Roasted brussels sprout salad

This roasted Brussels sprout salad brings warmth and comfort to your winter dinners.

The crispy Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes create a hearty base, while dried cranberries and crunchy walnuts add lovely texture and sweetness. A drizzle of maple balsamic dressing ties it all together, enhancing the flavors beautifully. Serve it warm alongside your favorite proteins or as a stand-alone dish for a satisfying meal that celebrates seasonal ingredients.

It’s a salad that feels cozy and indulgent, perfect for chilly nights.

We love: Roasted Brussels Sprout Recipe (by Hannah Magee, RD)

Caesar salad recipe

This classic Caesar salad brings a comforting crunch to your winter dinners.

Crisp romaine, homemade croutons, and a creamy dressing make every bite satisfying. The warmth of toasted garlic bread adds a cozy touch, perfect for chilly evenings. Drizzling the fresh dressing over the greens ensures each leaf shines with flavor.

Pair it with your favorite protein for a hearty meal or simply add some roasted vegetables to bulk it up for a refreshing winter salad.

We love: Caesar Salad Recipe (by Natasha’s Kitchen)

Wild rice and butternut squash salad

This wild rice and butternut squash salad makes a delightful winter dinner option.

Roasted butternut squash brings warmth and sweetness, while the wild rice offers a satisfying chew. Fresh spinach and dried cherries add vibrant color and tang. The maple balsamic dressing, infused with garlic and rosemary, ties everything together beautifully.

Serve this salad warm for a cozy meal that feels both nourishing and festive, perfect for those chilly winter evenings spent with loved ones.

We love: Wild Rice And Butternut Squash Salad (by Heartbeet Kitchen)

Roasted beet and goat cheese salad

This beet salad brings warmth to winter dining with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors.

Roasted beets lend their earthiness, while juicy oranges brighten the dish. Topped with creamy goat cheese and crunchy pistachios, each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. The citrus dressing ties everything together, making it a refreshing choice alongside hearty winter meals.

It’s not just salad; it’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients that adds a touch of elegance to your table.

We love: How to Make Beet Salad (by Two Peas & Their Pod)

Roasted cauliflower salad with tahini sauce

This roasted cauliflower with tahini sauce brings warmth and comfort to your winter dinner table.

The golden, caramelized florets pair beautifully with the creamy tahini sauce, creating a delightful contrast in textures. Topped with toasted almonds and pomegranate rubies, it adds a splash of color and flavor.

Whether you serve it as a side or a main with toasted pita bread, this dish offers a hearty, plant-based option perfect for chilly evenings.

We love: Roasted Cauliflower With Tahini Sauce (by Non-Guilty Pleasures)

Thai quinoa salad with butternut squash

This Thai quinoa salad with butternut squash shines as a plant-based winter dinner.

The roasted squash adds warmth and sweetness, while the kale provides a hearty crunch. The creamy ginger dressing ties everything together with bright flavors. Toss in colorful veggies like red cabbage and bell pepper for extra texture, and sprinkle chopped peanuts for a satisfying crunch.

This salad is not only filling but also a nourishing and vibrant meal that warms you up during chilly nights.

We love: Thai Quinoa Salad with Butternut Squash (Vegan) (by Dishing Out Health)

Winter kale salad with lemon cardamom dressing

This winter kale salad with lemon cardamom dressing brings color and brightness to your dinner table.

Fresh kale and spinach create a hearty base, while the zesty dressing—infused with honey and cardamom—adds a delightful twist. Topped with creamy goat cheese, juicy pomegranate seeds, and crunchy marcona almonds, each bite offers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures.

Add shredded rotiserie chicken to bulk this winter salad up into a delicious winter meal.

We love: The Best Winter Kale Salad with Lemon Cardamom Dressing (by Fed & Fit)

Warm kale & butternut squash salad

This autumn kale and butternut squash salad brings warmth to cold winter nights.

The roasted squash pairs beautifully with sweet pomegranate seeds and crunchy walnuts, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Tossed in a maple-balsamic vinaigrette, this salad bursts with seasonal goodness.

It’s simple to prepare and offers a hearty yet refreshing option for dinner.

We love: Autumn Kale & Butternut Squash Salad (by A Simple Palate)

Wilted spinach salad

This wilted spinach salad is a delightful winter dish that warms you from the inside out.

The gentle wilting softens the spinach while preserving its fresh taste, creating a comforting base. Topped with pickled red onions, buttery walnuts, and creamy goat cheese, every bite offers a satisfying crunch and flavor burst. The warm dressing with garlic and Dijon brings everything together beautifully.

Serve it alongside your favorite protein for a cozy dinner that feels both hearty and refreshing.

We love: Wilted Spinach Salad (by The Mediterranean Dish)

Mexican sweet potato salad

This Mexican sweet potato salad brings warmth to winter dinners with its vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients.

Roasted sweet potatoes and red onions create a comforting base, while black beans and fresh cilantro add protein and freshness. The zesty orange sauce dressing ties everything together, making every bite a delightful experience.

Serve this colorful salad at room temperature or chilled, and enjoy it as a filling side or a light main dish that lights up even the coldest nights.

We love: Mexican Sweet Potato Salad (by San-J)

Crispy quinoa chickpea cucumber salad

This crispy quinoa chickpea cucumber salad is a hearty winter dinner option that balances freshness and comfort.

The crunchy quinoa adds a satisfying texture while chickpeas and feta deliver protein and flavor. Crisp cucumbers and vibrant herbs brighten every bite. Drizzled with a creamy tahini balsamic dressing, this salad feels indulgent yet wholesome.

It’s easy to prepare and perfect for chilly nights when you crave something warm and refreshing.

We love: Crispy Quinoa Chickpea Cucumber Salad With Creamy Tahini Balsamic Dressing (by KALEJUNKIE)

Tuscan kale salad with lemon tahini dressing

This Tuscan kale salad with lemon tahini dressing is a delicious light and easy winter salad

The sturdy kale holds up beautifully, providing a robust base for creamy avocado and tangy goat cheese. Roasted pistachios add a delightful crunch, while the lemon tahini dressing brings a bright, zesty flavor. Massaging the kale softens it, making every bite enjoyable.

This salad serves as a hearty side or a light main, perfectly balancing warmth and freshness during those cold winter months.

We love: Tuscan Kale Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing (by From A Chef’s Kitchen)

Harvest salad with vinaigrette

This harvest salad brings the warmth of winter right to your table.

Roasted butternut squash and crisp apples create a delightful contrast, while pomegranate seeds add a burst of color and sweetness. The baby kale provides a nutritious base, complemented by creamy feta and crunchy pepitas. Toss it all with a tangy apple cider vinaigrette for a refreshing finish.

We love: Fall Harvest Salad (by Ahead of Thyme)

Pasta salad with maple balsamic vinaigrette

This pasta salad with maple balsamic vinaigrette warms both the heart and the belly during winter.

Roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts bring comforting flavors, while the pancetta adds a savory touch. Tossing in cranberries and pumpkin seeds introduces a delightful crunch and sweetness. The creamy goat cheese melts beautifully into the salad, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.

Serve it warm or chilled for a cozy, satisfying dinner that feels festive and inviting, perfect for any winter gathering.

We love: Fall Pasta Salad with Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette (by Happy Honey Kitchen)

Frequently asked questions

Don’t let the colder weather stop you from enjoying a fresh and flavorful salad for dinner! These winter dinner salad recipes are not only packed with seasonal ingredients, but also hearty enough to keep you satisfied on chilly nights.

So mix up your usual dinner routine and give these salads a try for a healthy and delicious meal option this winter. Happy cooking!