64 Best Salad Toppings for a Delicious Meal

Tired of eating the same old salad? It’s time to mix up your salad toppings for some textural and flavor variety! Toppings like tortilla strips, croutons and nuts offer a pleasant crunch, while creamy, salty cheeses add unique flavor. Of course, meats, beans and tofu add a protein boost, and berries and dried fruits lend a touch of sweetness.

Whatever you’re in the mood for, there’s something for you here. Browse our list of delicious salad toppings to get your creative juices flowing. 

Table of contents

• Wheat & grains
• Nuts & seeds
• Vegetarian protein 
• Meat and fish
• Cheese
• Veggies
• Fruit

What to put in a salad

In its simplest form, a salad includes a base of leafy greens, toppings and a dressing. Toppings can be anything from fruits and vegetables to croutons and pasta to nuts and cheeses — the possibilities are truly endless. If you’re bored with your usual picks, try some new salad topping ideas. Or you might even make the topping the salad itself, like pasta salads, grain salads or fruit salads. Keep reading for 64 scrumptious salad toppings.

1. Rice

Category: Wheat & grains

Rice isn’t just for stir-fries! Whether it’s smoky chipotle rice or nutty wild rice, the grain can add a unique flavor and heartiness when used as a salad topping. 

2. Couscous

Category: Wheat & grains

Try making this couscous recipe and sprinkling it into your salad for a Mediterranean flair. It pairs especially well with other salad toppings like feta cheese, fresh or sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts.

3. Farro

Category: Wheat & grains

Chewy farro can make any salad more satisfying. Add some chicken or tofu and crumbly cheese for a hearty packed lunch idea.

4. Quinoa

Category: Wheat & grains

Quinoa is an incredibly versatile salad topping. Use this nourishing quinoa recipe as a base, or switch things up by cooking the quinoa in chicken broth for a more savory flavor or even coconut milk for extra creaminess. 

5. Croutons

Category: Wheat & grains

Who doesn’t love crunchy croutons in their salad? Make these homemade croutons with stale or fresh bread, and enjoy the textural variety. 

6. Bulgur 

Category: Wheat & grains

Bulgur is a versatile whole grain you can use in many of the same ways as quinoa or rice. It’s easy to cook and pairs well with a variety of other salad toppings.

7. Pasta

Category: Wheat & grains

While pasta salad can be a meal all its own, adding some pasta noodles to your leafy green salad can be a great way to make it more filling. Opt for chickpea pasta for extra protein. 

8. Breadcrumbs

Category: Wheat & grains

Breadcrumbs offer a lighter alternative to croutons. Toast them in a bit of butter and garlic, then sprinkle them over your Caesar or kale salad for something deliciously unique. 

9. Tortilla strips

Category: Wheat & grains

If you’re craving a crunchy element to your salad but croutons don’t quite hit the mark, try tortilla strips. You can buy them in strips or simply crush regular tortilla chips on top of your taco salad. 

10. Wonton strips

Category: Wheat & grains

Wonton strips add a similar crunch to Asian-inspired salads, like this cabbage slaw recipe. Salad toppings like water chestnuts, green onions and shredded carrots are delicious companions to wonton strips. 

11. Pecans

Category: Nuts & seeds

Add some variety to your next salad with raw or candied pecans. Sprinkle in some dried cranberries, chopped apple and shallot for the ultimate fall-inspired salad.  

12. Almonds

Category: Nuts & seeds

Nuts are fantastic salad toppings because they add a textural element and a bit of healthy fat and protein. Try slivered or chopped and toasted almonds for extra nuttiness. 

13. Pistachios

Category: Nuts & seeds

Pistachios can add a unique flavor to salads. Try topping your greens with figs, goat cheese, pistachios and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette for the perfect balance of flavors.

14. Walnuts

Category: Nuts & seeds

Walnuts are perfect in both sweet and savory salads. They pair especially well with roasted root vegetables and creamy cheese, like in this beet salad recipe. 

15. Sesame seeds

Category: Nuts & seeds

Sesame seeds may be small, but they are mighty! These tiny seeds pack a real punch in flavor, texture and health benefits, making them the perfect addition to any salad. 

16. Pumpkin seeds

Category: Nuts & seeds

Save the innards from your Halloween pumpkin carving and make some roasted pumpkin seeds. They’re a delicious snack on their own but also lend a mild, savory flavor to salads and other dishes. 

17. Sunflower seeds 

Category: Nuts & seeds

Raw or roasted sunflower seeds bring a unique nutty flavor and a host of health benefits to your next salad. They’re rich in healthy fats, selenium, magnesium, vitamin E and are equally delicious! 

18. Chickpeas

Category: Vegetarian protein

Chickpeas, also called garbanzo beans, can form the base of a delicious Mediterranean salad on their own, but they also shine as a salad topping. You can eat them straight from the can or try roasting them with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder and smoked paprika for something a little different.

19. Cannellini beans

Category: Vegetarian protein

Cannellini beans are a type of white bean with a tender texture and a mild earthy flavor. They’re excellent additions to cold or warm salads and pair well with other toppings like cherry tomatoes, red onion and fresh herbs.  

20. Kidney beans

Category: Vegetarian protein

Not only are kidney beans an excellent addition to bean salad and low-calorie soup recipes but they’re one of the best salad toppings. With a subtly sweet flavor and soft texture, kidney beans can bring a boring lunch to life.

21. Edamame

Category: Vegetarian protein

Adding edamame (soybeans) to your salad is a great way to get a boost of vegetarian protein. They’re especially delicious with other Asian vegetables and flavors, like scallions, ginger and soy sauce.  

22. Black beans

Category: Vegetarian protein

Black beans are great for salads with Latin American-inspired flavors. Make this zesty black bean recipe and add red onion, cilantro, avocado and lime juice to your bowl of greens for the perfect flavorful salad. 

23. Lentils

Category: Vegetarian protein

Lentils are a powerhouse ingredient, packed with fiber, potassium and folate. Plus, there are many varieties, so you’ll never get bored of the same ‘ol salad toppings. 

24. Tofu

Category: Vegetarian protein

You don’t have to skimp on flavor when you add tofu to your salads. Cut extra firm tofu into cubes, then fry or bake it with some sesame oil, soy sauce and garlic for a unique salad addition. 

25. Egg

Category: Vegetarian protein

Combine chopped hard-boiled eggs and other toppings to make a classic Cobb salad. Nothing beats the variety of flavor and texture! 

26. Chicken

Category: Meat & fish

Make a big batch of this light and refreshing chicken salad at the beginning of the week so it’s ready to eat when hunger strikes. Use any leftover chicken in one of these shredded chicken recipes to mix things up.

27. Steak

Category: Meat & fish

If your Sunday dinner ideas include this chimichurri grilled steak, save the leftovers to add to your salad the next day. Steak makes any salad more filling — and delicious! 

28. Shrimp

Category: Meat & fish

Make this zesty shrimp salad to elevate your next meal. Add a little extra lime juice and chopped herbs for maximum flavor. 

29. Salmon

Category: Meat & fish

A simple fish filet is a fantastic way to turn your daily salad into a high-protein meal. Try this lemon vinaigrette salmon salad for something fresh and flavorful. 

30. Bacon

Category: Meat & fish

If you’re feeling fancy, you might try your hand at making bacon bits. Add them to your bowl with chopped lettuce, crumbly cheese, cherry tomatoes and avocado for a fun take on a BLTA. 

31. Turkey

Category: Meat & fish

You can use turkey as a salad topping in much the same way you use chicken. Make the most of your leftover Thanksgiving smoked turkey and add it to your favorite salad for an extra protein boost. 

32. Ham

Category: Meat & fish

Simply chop some cooked ham and sprinkle it into your greens to make a delicious ham salad. Then drizzle it all with a creamy dressing — you can’t go wrong!

33. Feta cheese

Category: Cheese

Delightfully crumbly and salty, feta is the perfect salad addition. It pairs well with everything from roasted vegetables to legumes to fruit. Drizzle with Greek dressing for an especially vibrant meal. 

34. Parmesan cheese

Category: Cheese

Try adding Parmesan shavings for a sharp, tangy touch to your salad. For extra Parmesan flavor, whip up a batch of Caesar salad dressing to drizzle on top. 

35. Halloumi cheese

Category: Cheese

Hailing from Cyprus, halloumi is a semi-soft cheese similar to mozzarella in flavor and texture. Cut it into thick slices and grill for just a few minutes on each side for a deliciously unique salad topping.

36. Blue cheese

Category: Cheese

If you’re craving something a bit different, crumble some blue cheese on top of your salad. Better yet, make a batch of creamy blue cheese dressing for double the flavor!

37. Mozzarella cheese

Category: Cheese

Combine sliced or pearled mozzarella, chopped tomatoes, basil and a drizzle of balsamic for a no-fuss Caprese salad. Use a large handful of greens as the base if you want something more filling. 

38. Gorgonzola cheese 

Category: Cheese

Gorgonzola is a type of blue cheese with a distinct, earthy flavor. Try it with chopped walnuts and fresh fruit like apples, pears or figs atop a bed of butter lettuce.  

39. Goat cheese

Category: Cheese

Creamy, tangy goat cheese can elevate any salad. Keep it simple by crumbling it on top, or make these fried goat cheese discs for something a little fancier. 

40. Cucumber

Category: Veggies

Sliced cucumber is versatile enough to make a salad all its own or to add some extra crunch along with other salad toppings. They’re especially delicious with salty feta and a squeeze of lemon juice. 

41. Tomatoes

Category: Veggies

Tomatoes bring some welcome acidity to a salad. Whether you prefer bit-size cherry tomatoes or chewy sun-dried tomatoes, they make an excellent addition to any salad. 

42. Bell pepper

Category: Veggies

Take the sauteed bell peppers from this skirt steak recipe and use them as a salad topping. Try adding cilantro and a squeeze of lime to tie it all together. 

43. Broccoli

Category: Veggies

Broccoli salad is the perfect hearty meal for busy days. Broccoli is also quite versatile and tastes great with various other salad toppings — both savory and sweet. 

44. Artichoke hearts

Category: Veggies

You can use artichoke hearts for more than spinach artichoke dip! If you can resist eating them straight from the jar, top your salad with marinated artichoke hearts for a slightly salty, herby flavor. 

45. Beets

Category: Veggies

Beets are an incredibly versatile root vegetable. Whether you like raw, roasted or pickled beets, they add a unique, earthy flavor to any salad. 

46. Corn

Category: Veggies

This sweet corn recipe is a lovely salad on its own, but you can also use it as a salad topping! Pile it on top of some crunchy romaine lettuce, and add black beans or chicken for a protein boost. 

47. Carrots

Category: Veggies

Make these honey roasted carrots as an easy weeknight dinner side, then add the leftovers to your salad the next day. Or simply top your greens with raw shredded carrots for a subtly sweet crunch. 

48. Green onion

Category: Veggies

Green onions, or scallions, have that same delicious onion flavor without the abrasiveness of a red or yellow onion. Slice them into small rounds and sprinkle them on your salad for extra color and flavor. 

49. Sweet potato

Category: Veggies

Dress up roasted sweet potato cubes with warming flavors like cinnamon and maple, or bring out their spicier side with smoked paprika and cayenne pepper substitutes, depending on the salad you’re making. They’re delicious either way! 

50. Herbs

Category: Veggies

Cilantro, chives and dill, oh my! Fresh herbs add a beautiful flavor to any salad. Chop up a few tablespoons of whatever you have on hand, or make this herby green goddess dressing.  

51. Avocado

Category: Veggies

Creamy avocado provides a nice textural contrast to crunchier salad toppings. Slice it, cube it or mash it — you can’t go wrong with avocado in any form! 

52. Olives

Category: Veggies

Briny olives add a special flavor to Mediterranean-inspired salads, like this Greek salad recipe. Try them with salty feta and chopped fresh herbs for something unique and satisfying. 

53. Mushrooms

Category: Veggies

You might only think of mushrooms as a pasta mix-in or a breakfast scramble ingredient. But whether they’re raw or cooked with garlic and thyme, mushrooms add a meaty texture to salads, too. 

54. Fried onion 

Category: Veggies

Fried onions may not top the list of healthy salad toppings, but they add an irresistible crunch and savory flavor to any salad. Try making your own or buy them premade. 

55. Fried garlic 

Category: Veggies

Have some garlic on hand? Cook chopped garlic in oil with a bit of salt and pepper and violà! You have the perfect topping for salads, pasta, eggs and more. 

56. Pickled jalapeños

Category: Veggies

For something a little spicier, try pickled jalapeños. They add extra heat and flavor to things like tacos, sandwiches, burgers and salads. 

57. Apple

Category: Fruit

Apples are good for more than sweet treats like warm apple pie! Simply chop them up raw and add them to your salad for a little crunch. They pair especially well with blue or goat cheese. 

58. Pomegranate

Category: Fruit

Sprinkle some pomegranate arils into your salad for vibrant color and tart flavor. Each seed bursts with delicious juice with every bite! 

59. Pear

Category: Fruit

Raw or grilled sliced pears can add a bit of sweet juiciness to your next salad. Try them with bold cheeses like gorgonzola and a tangy honey mustard dressing.

60. Orange

Category: Fruit

Mix a few juicy orange segments into your next salad for a burst of vitamin C and citrusy flavor. Oranges pair well with both sweet and savory flavors, so experiment until you find a combo you love! 

61. Dried fruit

Category: Fruit

Dried fruit like cranberries, dates or apricots add a delightfully chewy texture to salads. Try other healthy salad toppings like nuts for extra nutrition and flavor. 

62. Watermelon

Category: Fruit

Watermelon and feta are a match made in heaven. Top your greens with chunks of watermelon and feta, thinly sliced red onion and some basil or mint leaves for a refreshing summer salad.

63. Berries

Category: Fruit

Top a simple arugula salad with sliced strawberries, goat cheese and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a dreamy salad any day of the week. Blueberries and raspberries also work well if strawberries aren’t in season.

64. Grapes

Category: Fruit

Grapes aren’t just for snacking! Pair raw or roasted grapes with walnuts, crumbly cheese and mixed greens for a delicious grape salad.

Level up your salad toppings with Instacart

With everything from quinoa and shrimp to pistachios and gorgonzola, these salad toppings can level up any meal. If you’re too busy building your epic salad to run to the store, order every ingredient you might need on Instacart. Your groceries will be delivered straight to your door, so you won’t miss a beat.