A crisp green salad, a make-ahead grain salad, or a fruit salad all go well with Thanksgiving dinner because they cut through rich turkey, gravy, and casseroles. Dress leafy greens at the last minute, and build a grain salad earlier in the day so you are not chopping during the turkey rest. See the Thanksgiving guide and Thanksgiving side dishes, plus the Thanksgiving sides shopping plan, to fit a salad into the rest of the menu.
Serve a crisp green salad
A simple mix of sturdy greens, such as romaine, radicchio, or a spring mix with some crunch, holds up next to a warm plate. Add one seasonal fruit or vegetable — thin apple or pear slices, shaved fennel, or pomegranate seeds — and a handful of toasted nuts. A vinaigrette with vinegar or lemon is better here than a creamy dressing, which can feel heavy after mashed potatoes. Dry the greens well in a spinner, and toss them just before serving so they do not wilt on the buffet.
Make a grain salad ahead, or add fruit
A grain salad made with wild rice, farro, or quinoa can be dressed an hour or two ahead and served at room temperature, which frees the refrigerator. Stir in herbs, toasted nuts, and a little dried fruit or roasted squash so it tastes like part of the holiday, not a leftover lunch. If you would rather keep the salad sweet, make a Thanksgiving fruit salad and serve it as a side or a light dessert. Keep mayonnaise-based salads cold, and do not leave any perishable salad out for more than 2 hours.
How much to make
Plan on about one generous handful of green salad per person, or roughly ½ cup to ¾ cup of a grain salad, especially if you already have many hot sides. Put the salad at the start of the buffet so people take some before the heavier dishes. Related: what appetizers to serve on Thanksgiving.
Frequently asked questions
What salad goes best with turkey?
A crisp green salad with a sharp vinaigrette is the most reliable choice. A grain salad with herbs and nuts is a good make-ahead option if you want something more filling.
Can I make a Thanksgiving salad ahead of time?
You can wash and dry greens and mix a vinaigrette ahead, but toss them at the last minute. Grain salads can be dressed an hour or two before serving.
Should I serve fruit salad or a green salad?
Either works. Serve a green or grain salad if you want contrast with rich mains, and add a fruit salad if you want a sweeter side that can also stand in for dessert.
Helpful kitchen tools
- OXO Good Grips 6.22-Quart Salad Spinner — Dry greens well so a vinaigrette clings instead of turning watery.
- OXO Good Grips 11-Inch Balloon Whisk — A whisk makes a simple vinaigrette in the same bowl you will pour from.
- OXO Good Grips 2-Cup and 4-Cup Glass Measuring Cup Set — Handy for measuring oil, vinegar, and any grain you cook for a make-ahead salad.
- Everyday White Porcelain Oval Serving Platter, 16-Inch — A large platter or shallow bowl can stand in if you do not have a salad bowl big enough for a crowd.
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