Pesach (Passover) is a time of tradition, family gatherings, and delicious meals that honor centuries-old customs. One of the delightful ways to bring fresh flavors to your Pesach table is through vibrant, crisp salads that complement your festive dishes.
Whether you’re looking for light starters or side dishes to balance rich main courses, Pesach salad recipes offer a wonderful variety of tastes and textures. These salads keep your meal refreshing and nutritious while abiding by the dietary restrictions of Passover.
Today, I’m excited to share several Pesach salad recipes that are easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for your holiday celebrations.
From classic chopped salads to inventive combinations featuring seasonal produce and kosher-for-Passover ingredients, each recipe is designed to be both satisfying and visually appealing. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip up these salads in no time, impressing your family and guests alike.
Let’s dive into these colorful, tasty Pesach salad recipes that will elevate your Seder night and beyond.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pesach salads are more than just a side dish; they bring brightness and balance to your Passover meal. They incorporate fresh, wholesome ingredients that complement traditional dishes like matzah ball soup, brisket, and roasted vegetables.
These salads are naturally gluten-free and often grain-free, adhering perfectly to Passover dietary laws.
Each recipe is versatile and can be tailored to your family’s tastes, whether you prefer tangy dressings, crunchy textures, or herbal notes. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients, making your holiday meal not only delicious but healthful.
The vibrant colors and fresh flavors will bring a festive touch to your table, encouraging everyone to savor every bite.
Ingredients
Chopped Pesach Salad
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Beet and Orange Pesach Salad
- 3 medium roasted beets, peeled and sliced
- 2 large oranges, peeled and segmented
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Avocado and Radish Pesach Salad
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup radishes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup scallions, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large mixing bowls
- Salad spinner (optional but helpful)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Mixing spoon or salad tongs
- Small whisk or fork for dressing
Instructions
Chopped Pesach Salad
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and dry the romaine lettuce thoroughly, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and roughly chop the parsley.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Combine salad and dressing: Place all the chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Toss again before plating.
Beet and Orange Pesach Salad
- Roast the beets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap beets individually in foil and roast for 45-60 minutes until tender. Let cool, peel, and slice.
- Prepare the oranges: Peel and segment the oranges, removing all pith and seeds.
- Toast walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts until fragrant (about 3-5 minutes). Let cool and chop roughly.
- Make the dressing: Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Assemble salad: In a salad bowl, combine beets, orange segments, toasted walnuts, and mint. Drizzle dressing over the top and toss lightly.
- Serve: The salad can be served immediately or chilled for a deeper flavor.
Avocado and Radish Pesach Salad
- Prepare ingredients: Dice avocados and thinly slice radishes. Slice scallions and chop cilantro.
- Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Gently toss avocados, radishes, scallions, and cilantro with the dressing, being careful not to mash the avocado.
- Serve right away: This salad is best enjoyed fresh to keep the avocado creamy and vibrant.
Tips & Variations
To keep your salad crisp and fresh, always use the freshest vegetables available and avoid overdressing. If preparing ahead, keep dressing separate until just before serving.
Feel free to add other kosher-for-Passover ingredients to customize these salads. For example, add sliced almonds or pomegranate seeds to the chopped salad for extra crunch and color.
Swap walnuts for pecans or pistachios in the beet salad for a different nutty flavor. For the avocado salad, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick.
Using fresh herbs like dill, basil, or cilantro will brighten flavors and make these salads even more festive.
Remember, if you want to keep your salad strictly Passover-friendly, avoid any ingredients that contain chametz or kitniyot if your tradition requires it. Always check labels, especially on dressings and condiments.
Nutrition Facts
Salad | Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fiber |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chopped Pesach Salad (per serving) | 120 | 9g | 8g | 2g | 3g |
Beet and Orange Pesach Salad (per serving) | 180 | 11g | 18g | 3g | 4g |
Avocado and Radish Pesach Salad (per serving) | 150 | 13g | 7g | 2g | 5g |
Serving Suggestions
These Pesach salads pair beautifully with traditional Passover dishes like matzah ball soup, roasted chicken, or brisket. Serve them chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing contrast to warm, hearty mains.
They also work well as light lunches or side dishes during the week of Passover.
For an elegant Seder plate complement, try serving the beet and orange salad alongside your charoset or gefilte fish. The bright colors and flavors will add a festive touch to your holiday table.
The avocado and radish salad is excellent for a quick snack or a healthy starter, offering creamy and crunchy textures in every bite.
Conclusion
Pesach salad recipes offer a wonderful way to infuse your Passover meal with freshness, color, and nutrition. These salads are simple, adaptable, and designed to honor the traditions of the holiday while pleasing modern palates.
Whether you’re preparing a large family Seder or a casual holiday meal, these salads will brighten your table and delight your guests.
With just a few wholesome ingredients and easy steps, you can create dishes that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. From the crisp chopped salad to the sweet and tangy beet and orange combination, and the creamy avocado and radish blend, there’s something here for every taste.
I hope these recipes inspire you to get creative and enjoy a tasty, healthful Pesach celebration.
📖 Recipe Card: Pesach Salad
Description: A fresh and vibrant salad perfect for Passover, combining crisp vegetables with a tangy lemon dressing. This salad is light, healthy, and easy to prepare.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions
- Wash and chop all vegetables and herbs.
- In a large bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, parsley, and mint.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and cumin.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 6 g
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