6 Salads That
Don't Suck
With these local options, there’s no reason to settle for wimpy iceberg, soggy croutons, and bottled ranch.
*Above: Farmhouse Salad | 4 Rivers
1. Ahi Tuna Salad
Where to Find It: Sizzlin’ Greens
Sizzlin’ Greens’ Ahi Tuna Salad isn’t your standard greens situation. This bowl is a riot of color and texture: ruby-red ahi tuna pairs with crunchy romaine and velvety spinach, while shreds of red cabbage and slivers of carrot bring crunch and sweetness. Bell peppers, green onions, and cilantro inject fresh, herbaceous vibes, but the real MVP here is the crispy wonton strips—they’re the perfect counterpoint to the tender tuna. Everything is tied together with a sesame-soy-ginger dressing that’s equal parts tangy and nutty, and a final drizzle of soy glaze ups the umami ante.
Why It Doesn’t Suck
It’s essentially sushi in salad form—light but filling, with enough punchy flavors to keep every bite interesting. I ate it every day for a week straight, and still frequently desire it.
2. Farmhouse Salad
Where to Find It: 4 Rivers
When a barbecue joint takes a stab at salad, you expect bold flavors, and the Farmhouse Salad is anything but meek. Smoky tri-tip steak crowns a base of kale, spring mix, and romaine, while roasted chickpeas provide an unexpected crunch. There’s also a medley of veggies—cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and corn—layered with shredded cheddar cheese. A smoky tomato vinaigrette ties the whole thing together, adding a touch of barbecue nostalgia without overwhelming the greens. But the pièce de résistance? Texas Cornbread croutons. C’mon! If you’re going to put croutons in a salad, they might as well be the most indulgent ones possible.
Why It Doesn’t Suck
This salad leans into its roots—it’s smoky, hearty, and unapologetically Texan. And those cornbread croutons? They’re worth the price of admission. Also, you have the ability to add a protein, which makes this the ultimate meal.
3. Dill or No Dill
Where to Find it: Rusteak
Salmon lovers, rejoice: the Dill or No Dill is here to redefine grilled fish ongreens. The star is Faroe Island salmon, seared to perfection and laid atop a base of arugula and spring mix. Shaved red onion and cucumber lend a fresh bite, while crispy chickpeas ground it with a satisfying crunch. The feta and herb ranch dressing strike a perfect balance between creamy and tangy, but it’s the fresh dill that gives this salad its distinctive identity. Love it or hate it, dill packs a flavor punch that transforms every forkful into a herby, briny delight.
Why It Doesn’t Suck
This salad is proof that dill deserves a spot in the herb pantheon. Plus, the combination of crispy chickpeas and tender salmon create an unbeatable textural contrast.
4. Earth Bowl
Where to Find It: Just Salad
The Earth Bowl is for anyone who believes salads should be as filling as they are nourishing. This vegan-friendly option starts with a hearty mix of arugula and shredded kale, which serve as the perfect backdrop for roasted beets, sweet potatoes, and apples. Regenerative organic quinoa boosts the protein count, while Violife® vegan feta adds a salty, tangy bite. Chopped almonds contribute crunch, and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette keeps things classic and balanced.
Why It Doesn’t Suck
It’s a salad that eats like a meal—packed with nutrient-dense ingredients and bold flavors. Bonus: it’s as Instagrammable as it is delicious.
5. Mezze Crunch
Where to Find It: Just Salad
If you’ve ever wished a salad could channel the flavors of your favorite mezze platter, the Mezze Crunch is here to answer your prayers. This bowl combines extra-crisp romaine, shredded kale, and cabbage for a sturdy base that won’t wilt under its toppings. Crumbled feta, hemp hearts, and chickpeas bring Mediterranean flair, while grape tomatoes, cucumbers, and pepperoncini add brightness and tang. The spicy harissa pita chips? Chef’s kiss. But the real showstopper is the homemade cucumber tzatziki—it’s creamy, garlicky, and perfect for drizzling (or dunking). A squeeze of fresh lemon and it’s the perfect combination of flavor.
Why It Doesn’t Suck
This salad is basically a deconstructed gyro in bowl form—filling, flavorful, and totally satisfying.
6. Roasted Beet Salad
Where to Find It: Hangry Bison
Beets are having a moment, and the Roasted Beet Salad takes full advantage. With a base of peppery arugula, this salad layers earthy roasted red and gold beets alongside smoky roasted peppers and meaty portobello mushrooms. Creamy feta cheese adds richness, while a house vinaigrette delivers a zippy balance that brings all the flavors together. It’s colorful, textural, and just indulgent enough to feel like a treat without veering into “this-isn’t -a-salad” territory.
Why It Doesn’t Suck
It’s the kind of salad that convinces beet skeptics to hop on the bandwagon. The roasted mushrooms add umami heft, making it a perfect choice for meatless eaters—or anyone craving something with sustenance but still light.
