Best 11 Chunky Vegetable Salad Recipes

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Indulge in a symphony of flavors and textures with our chunky vegetable salad, a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the vibrant colors and natural goodness of fresh vegetables. This vibrant salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, crunchy bell peppers, and a medley of other garden-fresh ingredients, tossed in a refreshing vinaigrette dressing that enhances their flavors without overpowering them. With its satisfying crunch, delightful flavors, and vibrant appearance, this salad is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

In addition to the classic chunky vegetable salad, we also offer a tantalizing array of variations to suit every taste. From a zesty Greek salad, bursting with the flavors of feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and oregano, to an Asian-inspired salad featuring a sweet and tangy dressing and crunchy wonton strips, there's a recipe here to satisfy every craving. And for those who prefer a hearty and protein-packed option, our chicken and vegetable salad showcases tender chicken breast, perfectly grilled and paired with a medley of fresh vegetables and a creamy dressing.

Whether you're looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a satisfying main course, our chunky vegetable salad and its variations are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, sharpen your knives, and let's embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the beauty and bounty of fresh vegetables.

Here are our top 11 tried and tested recipes!

CHUNKY VEGGIE SLAW



Chunky Veggie Slaw image

The classic coleslaw with cabbage gets a fresh approach when you add broccoli, cucumbers, snap peas and crunchy walnuts. -Nicholas King, Duluth, Minnesota

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 25m

Yield 14 servings (1 cup each).

Number Of Ingredients 13

1 small head cabbage, chopped
6 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 medium cucumber, chopped
2 celery ribs, sliced
12 fresh sugar snap peas, halved
1 small green pepper, chopped
3/4 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
3 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
2 green onions, thinly sliced

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients. In a small bowl, whisk buttermilk, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar and salt. Pour over salad; toss to coat. Top with walnuts and green onions. Refrigerate leftovers.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 125 calories, Fat 9g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 4mg cholesterol, Sodium 189mg sodium, Carbohydrate 10g carbohydrate (6g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

ISRAELI VEGETABLE SALAD



Israeli Vegetable Salad image

Provided by Ina Garten

Categories     side-dish

Time 20m

Yield 6 to 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

1 (1 pound 13-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 cup tahini (ground sesame paste)
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (4 to 6 lemons), divided
3 tablespoons chopped garlic (9 cloves)
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon Sriracha
Good olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 large hothouse cucumber, unpeeled, halved, seeded, and 1/2-inch diced
2 cups heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
1 cup (1/2-inch-diced) Holland red bell pepper (1 large)
3/4 cup (1/4-inch-diced) red onion
1/2 cup julienned fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Toasted pita bread, for serving

Steps:

  • For the hummus, place the chickpeas, tahini, 3/4 cup of the lemon juice, the garlic, cumin, Sriracha, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade and process until the mixture is completely smooth. If the hummus is too thick, add a few tablespoons of warm water until it is creamy but still thick and spreadable.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, and red onion. Add 1/3 cup olive oil, the remaining 1/4 cup lemon juice, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper and combine.
  • Spoon the hummus onto a large (12-by-16-inch) serving platter, spreading it out with a raised edge. With a slotted spoon, mound the vegetable salad on the hummus, leaving the edges of the hummus visible. Sprinkle the vegetables and hummus with the mint and extra salt. Drizzle with olive oil and serve at room temperature with pita bread.

SICILIAN CHUNK VEGETABLE SALAD



Sicilian Chunk Vegetable Salad image

Provided by Rachael Ray : Food Network

Time 13m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

1/4 to 1/3 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
4 ribs celery, chopped
1/2 European or English "seedless" cucumber, diced
2 vine ripe tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1/2 medium red onion, chopped
8 hot peppers, small cherry peppers or peperoncini peppers
1 small jar, 6 to 8 ounces, marinated mushrooms, drained
1 tin flat anchovies, drained and chopped
12 large green olives, pitted and coarsely chopped
1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, eyeball it
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, eyeball it
Salt and coarse black pepper

Steps:

  • Steam green beans over pasta water if preparing the above recipe, or simmer beans in 1-inch of boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain green beans, run under cold water to cool off and chop them into thirds. Combine all salad ingredients in a bowl and toss. Dress salad with vinegar, oil, salt and pepper and serve.

MIDDLE EASTERN VEGETABLE SALAD



Middle Eastern Vegetable Salad image

Provided by Ina Garten

Time 15m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

10 scallions, white and green parts, thinly sliced
1 pound ripe tomatoes, seeded, cored, and 1/2-inch-diced
1 hothouse cucumber, halved lengthwise, seeded, and 1/2-inch-diced
1 can or jar (12 to 16 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
1/3 cup julienned fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (4 lemons)
1 tablespoon minced garlic (3 cloves)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup good olive oil
8 ounces good feta cheese, 1/2-inch-diced
Toasted pita bread, for serving

Steps:

  • Place the scallions, tomatoes, cucumber, chickpeas, parsley, mint, and basil in a large salad bowl and toss to combine.
  • In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the lemon juice, garlic, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil to make an emulsion. Pour the dressing over the salad, tossing gently to coat all the vegetables. Add the feta, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss gently. Serve the salad with the toasted pita bread.

MACHO GAZPACHO VEGETABLE CHUNK SALAD



Macho Gazpacho Vegetable Chunk Salad image

Provided by Rachael Ray : Food Network

Categories     side-dish

Time 10m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

1/2 seedless cucumber, also known as English cucumber
2 vine ripe tomatoes, seeded
1 green bell pepper, seeded
1/2 red onion, peeled
4 ribs celery from the heart, including leafy tops
3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves or flat-leaf parsley
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 lime or 1/2 lemon, juiced
1 to 2 teaspoons hot sauce, for mild to medium-hot heat level (recommended: Tabasco)
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, eyeball the amount
Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Cut cucumber, tomatoes, pepper, onion and celery into bite-sized chunks. Combine vegetable in a bowl. Sprinkle cilantro or parsley over the vegetables. Combine vinegar, lime or lemon juice and hot sauce in a small bowl. Whisk in extra-virgin olive oil in a slow stream. Pour dressing down over the salad and toss. Season salad with salt and pepper and serve.

CHUNKY VEGETABLE-BULGUR SALAD



Chunky Vegetable-Bulgur Salad image

This healthful side dish is composed of lightly sauteed vegetables and bulgur wheat, a Middle Eastern grain that is high in fiber and protein, and low in fat and calories.

Provided by Cooking Channel

Categories     side-dish

Time 55m

Yield 7 cups or 8 side dish servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

1/2 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves, chopped
1/2 cup loosely packed fresh parsley leaves, chopped
2 cups bulgur
2 1/2 cups boiling water
2 lemons
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium yellow summer squash, chopped (8 ounces)
1 medium zucchini, chopped (8 ounces)
Salt and coarsely ground black pepper

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, stir together the bulgur and boiling water. Cover and let stand until the liquid is absorbed, about 30 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, grate 1 teaspoon peel and squeeze 1/4 cup juice from the lemons and set aside.
  • In a 12-inch nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat until hot. Add the onions and cook until beginning to soften, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes, squash and zucchini. Cook until the vegetables are tender, 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Stir the vegetables into the bulgur with the lemon peel and juice, mint, parsley, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Spoon the mixture into a container with a tight-fitting lid. It can be refrigerated up to 1 day.
  • Nutritional information per 7/8-cup serving size: about 160 calories, 2 g total fat (0 g saturated), 160 mg sodium, 32 g carbohydrate, 8 g fiber, 6 g protein

Nutrition Facts : Calories 160, Fat 2 grams, Sodium 160 milligrams, Carbohydrate 32 grams, Fiber 8 grams, Protein 6 grams

VEGETABLE CHUNK SALAD



Vegetable Chunk Salad image

Many of us use crudite platters for starters around the holidays. Substitute or add any combination of crudite to this simple salad.

Provided by Rachael Ray : Food Network

Time 10m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

1/2 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1 large red or green bell pepper, cut into bite-size chunks
1/2 red onion, chopped
1/2 European (seedless) cucumber, cut into bite-size chunks
2 ribs celery, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 yellow squash, cut into bite-size pieces
3 tablespoons to 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, a couple of glugs
2 tablespoons (about 2 splashes) red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Coarse salt and pepper

Steps:

  • Combine chopped vegetables in a medium bowl. Place oil, vinegar, sugar, and Italian seasoning in a small plastic container with a lid. Secure lid and shake dressing vigorously for 1 minute. Pour dressing over salad and toss. Season salad with salt and pepper, to taste.

CHUNKY VEGETABLE SALAD



Chunky Vegetable Salad image

This is a great side dish and it is good for lunch boxes and picnic baskets. it is good at room temperature and served cold.

Provided by Joan Hunt

Categories     Other Salads

Time 20m

Number Of Ingredients 11

1/2-1/3 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
4 stick celery ribs, chopped
1/2 seedless cucumber, diced
2 vine ripe tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1/2 medium red onion, chopped
8 small cherry peppers or pepperoncini peppers
1 small jar (6-8 ounces) marinated mushrooms, drained
12 large green olives, pitted and coarsly chopped
1 1/2 tsp red wine vinegar
1/4 c olive oil, extra virgin
salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

  • 1. steam green beans to crisp tender about 3-5 minutes. chop the beans into thirds. Combine All salad ingredients in a bowl and toss. Dress with vinegar and oil, salt and pepper and chill.
  • 2. chill for at least 2 hours to meld flavors. this is one of those dishes that gets better the longer it sits.

CHUNKY VEGETABLE SALAD



CHUNKY vegetable salad image

What to do with all of those garden vegies???? Try this chunky salad with no lettuce ;)

Provided by Christy Perry @Cdrake

Categories     Other Salads

Number Of Ingredients 6

4 large tomatoes, diced
1 small cucumber, (i used a lemon cucumber), diced
1/2 medium green pepper, diced
2 stick(s) chopped celery, (or tender stalks of swiss chard),diced
1/3 cup - balsamic vinegar
1/3 pkg - dry ranch dressing mix, (season according to your tastes)

Steps:

  • Chop it all up & add the balsamic vinegar & dry ranch mix & toss. I don't add onion unless I know it will all be eaten that day, as I've heard some warnings re: raw onion kept over until the next day...appreciate any feedback on this ;)

ANGEL'S CHUNKY CHICKEN SALAD



Angel's Chunky Chicken Salad image

I made up this recipe after a similar sandwich served at a diner. It's not the same, but just as good.

Provided by Angel

Categories     Salad

Time 15m

Yield 2

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 cooked, boneless chicken breast half, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
½ onion, finely diced
2 dill pickles, chopped
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

  • Combine the chicken, celery, mayonnaise, onion and pickle; mix well.
  • Season with the garlic powder, salt and pepper. Serve with lettuce on fresh crusty bread or bun.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 280.1 calories, Carbohydrate 7.3 g, Cholesterol 49.1 mg, Fat 20.7 g, Fiber 1.8 g, Protein 16.3 g, SaturatedFat 3.7 g, Sodium 1018.2 mg, Sugar 2.9 g

PAMI'S CHUNKY CHOPPED SALAD



Pami's Chunky Chopped Salad image

A delicious summer meal! Packed with garden veggies, it's light and refreshing. We love the tanginess of the rice wine and apple cider vinegar with the lemon juice. Little bits of creamy Feta and the combination of herbs add tons of flavor and take this simple salad over the top.

Provided by Pami Toll

Categories     Other Side Dishes

Time 20m

Number Of Ingredients 15

2 large cucumbers or 5 small pickle sized cucumbers
2-3 tomatoes
3 green onions with knobs or bulb on it
1/2 red onion
1/2 bunch chopped parsley
1/2 Tbsp chopped basil
1 fresh lemon, juiced
5 - 6 oz fresh Feta cheese
1 handful Kalamata or black olives
1/4 c olive oil or more
1/4 c apple cider vinegar
5 Tbsp light rice wine vinegar
4 clove garlic, chopped
salt and pepper, to taste
3 pinch Herbs de Provence or Greek herbs (dried)

Steps:

  • 1. I take my time cutting larger thick pieces of the cucumbers by laying it out peeled and slicing it lengthwise four ways. Then cutting crossways into thick pieces. Add them to a large bowl.
  • 2. I do the same for the tomatoes. I want squared chunks. It makes for the hearty feel of the salad. Add chopped tomatoes to the bowl with the cucumber.
  • 3. Then I take a large square of Feta cheese and make small squares. Throw in about a handful of Kalamata olives or black olives.
  • 4. Chop the onion into small pieces. Chop the green onion knobs and all into thicker pieces.
  • 5. Add onion and green onion to the bowl.
  • 6. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, chopped garlic, fresh lemon, basil, herbs, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad. Gently toss the whole thing together to coat. Serves 4. To double, add more of each ingredient.
  • 7. Options. I enjoy a chopped hard boiled egg, marinated artichoke hearts, chopped fresh spinach ( LOTS OF THAT). I have added raw almonds or pecans. But usually don't. It's very light and tasty. Now if you don't like Feta cheese, I chopped squares of Swiss or Muenster or some dill flavored cheese instead. You can do almost anything. The thicker pieces make you feel fuller and more satisfying so you arent think THIS IS JUST A SALAD. I also have had anchovies or other olives added too. If any is left, I place in plastic wear and give it a shake. Then I serve it chilled later.

Tips:

  • Prep Vegetables Evenly: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes so they cook evenly and have a consistent texture.
  • Use a Variety of Vegetables: Incorporate a mix of colorful vegetables to add visual appeal and nutritional diversity.
  • Don't Overcook Vegetables: Cook vegetables just until tender-crisp to preserve their nutrients and vibrant colors.
  • Use a Well-Balanced Dressing: Create a dressing that complements the flavors of the vegetables without overpowering them.
  • Chill Salad Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and enhance the freshness.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the delightful symphony of flavors and textures offered by this Chunky Vegetable Salad. With its vibrant colors, crunchy texture, and delectable dressing, this salad serves as a refreshing and nourishing side dish or a satisfying light meal. Experiment with different vegetable combinations and dressings to create a salad that suits your taste preferences. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a healthy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Remember, the key to a great salad lies in using fresh, seasonal vegetables, achieving the perfect balance of flavors, and presenting it beautifully. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and health benefits of this exceptional salad!

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