Dinner in a Hurry: 5 Satisfying Salads

I've always thought of salad as so much more than a lowly side dish. As the warmer months roll in, I get more adventurous with my salad creations -- adding whole grains here, roasted veggies there. When friends come for dinner, they often request my famous "Garbage Salad." Though it may not sound appetizing, it's actually a delicious collection of mixed greens, tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, cheese (usually feta), whatever type of bean I have in the house (typically garbanzo or cannellini), a seed or a nut (like sunflower seeds) with a simple oil and vinegar dressing.

By combining a few basic ingredients that you likely already have on hand, you can create a delicious, healthy, satisfying meal in minutes. Need some inspiration? Here are five fun salad recipes I've uncovered from around the web. Enjoy.

1. Mixed Roasted Vegs and Rocket Giant Couscous

From: Salad Pride
Why you should try it: I love tossing roasted vegetables into any salad, and the couscous in this recipe adds depth and texture for a satisfying dish.

2. Shaved Fennel Salad

From: 101 Cookbooks
Why you should try it: The paper-thin slices of zucchini and fennel, paired with lemon juice and arugula, give this simple salad a powerful flavor punch. 

3. Spinach Feta Blood Orange Salad

From: Joy the Baker (she does more than just butter and eggs!)
Why you should try it: The contrasting bold colors of this salad are stunning. This recipe combines sweet blood oranges with creamy avocado, salty feta cheese and crunchy sunflower seeds -- yum!

4. Chicken, Squash, and Chickpea Salad With Tahini Dressing

From: Real Simple
Why you should try it: With boneless skinless chicken breast, sweet butternut squash and hearty chickpeas, this salad won't leave anyone hungry.

5. Roasted Beet Salad with Wheat Berries, Arugula and Feta

From: Lottie + Doof
Why you should try it: Beets are what's known as a super food because they're loaded with nutrients and antioxidants. This is a yummy way to get your vitamins.

P.S. SecondAct columnist Jeanette Hurt offers suggestions for making your own fresh salad dressing here.

What's your favorite salad combination? Share your recipes in the comments section below.

Read more: 5 Must-Try Slow-Cooker Meals