Delicious food doesn’t have to mean hours of prep. Try some of these 19 easy make-ahead salads this Mother’s Day, so you
7 Layer Salad
The 7 Layer Salad is a heritage dish that’s been a favorite for generations and is a fantastic make-ahead option for Mother’s Day. Layered with an array of ingredients, it’s a time-honored side that’s always welcome at any family event.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad
Pea Salad
The classic Pea Salad, with its creamy, tangy, and sweet profile, is a wonderful choice for a make-ahead Mother’s Day salad. It’s a vintage recipe that’s equally fitting for a sunny cookout or a festive Mother’s Day brunch.
Get the Recipe: Pea Salad
Texas Caviar Dip
Texas Caviar is a vibrant, fresh salad that’s perfect for preparing in advance for Mother’s Day. This mix of black-eyed peas, beans, and vegetables creates a hearty dish that’s both colorful and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Texas Caviar Dip
Broccoli Slaw
Broccoli Slaw is a crunchy, creamy salad that’s an excellent make-ahead dish for Mother’s Day. It brings a burst of flavor to any BBQ and impresses Mom with its combination of fresh vegetables and a rich dressing.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Slaw
Ramen Noodle Asian Salad
Ramen Noodle Asian Salad, with its crisp cabbage and veggies in an Asian dressing, is a superb make-ahead choice for Mother’s Day. The crunchy ramen noodles add an enjoyable texture that’s Mom will love.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Noodle Asian Salad
Cherry Salad
Cherry Salad is a simple six-ingredient, make-ahead dessert that’s a potluck classic. Prepare this sweet treat in advance to show Mom your love during Mother’s Day celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Salad
Caprese Salad
A Caprese Salad with cherry tomatoes is a classic make-ahead dish for Mother’s Day, showcasing a harmonious mix of juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. This Italian classic is a straightforward yet elegant side.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Salad
Amish Macaroni Salad
Amish Macaroni Salad is a sweet and creamy side that’s an ideal make-ahead dish for Mother’s Day gatherings. Its simplicity and delightful mixture of ingredients make it a hit with any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Amish Macaroni Salad
Lime Jello Salad
Lime Jello Salad is a playful and classic dessert that’s perfect for preparing ahead of Mother’s Day. Its bright green hue and refreshing taste add a fun touch that everyone from kids to grandma will love.
Get the Recipe: Lime Jello Salad
Cajun Pasta Salad
Cajun Pasta Salad is a spicy make-ahead dish for Mother’s Day, blending pasta with crisp bell peppers, celery, and onion, all finished with a creamy remoulade-style dressing. It adds a spicy kick to your side dish lineup.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Pasta Salad
Chickpea Salad
This straightforward Chickpea Salad is brimming with fresh vegetables and is a fantastic vegan make-ahead option for Mother’s Day. Its ease of preparation makes it a gorgeous and stress-free addition to your gathering.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Salad
Orzo Pasta Salad
Lemon Basil Orzo Pasta Salad is a refreshing and simple make-ahead dish for Mother’s Day. Just a few ingredients are needed to create this light summer salad, perfect for sharing with your family.
Get the Recipe: Orzo Pasta Salad
Amish Broccoli Salad
Amish Broccoli Salad is a delightful make-ahead dish for Mother’s Day, featuring raw broccoli and cauliflower in a creamy dressing topped with cheese and bacon. It’s a hearty choice that’s sure to please your family.
Get the Recipe: Amish Broccoli Salad
Blue Cheese Coleslaw
Blue Cheese Coleslaw offers a tangy and rich twist on the classic recipe, making it a standout make-ahead salad for Mother’s Day. This coleslaw brings a distinctive taste that sets it apart from the usual fare.
Get the Recipe: Blue Cheese Coleslaw
Instant Pot Potato Salad
Instant Pot Potato Salad is a convenient make-ahead dish for Mother’s Day, combining simple ingredients like potatoes, eggs, and sweet gherkins. It’s a reliable favorite for your family party.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Potato Salad
Beet Coleslaw
Beet Coleslaw is a visually stunning and simple-to-make vegan side dish. This make-ahead salad pairs sweet beets with apples and carrots, making it a perfect addition to the Mother’s Day table.
Get the Recipe: Beet Coleslaw
Broccoli Crunch Salad
Broccoli Crunch Salad is an easy make-ahead salad for Mother’s Day gatherings, bringing together crisp broccoli, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon. It’s a fresh addition to any feast.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad
Amish Potato Salad
Amish Potato Salad is a creamy, tangy make-ahead dish that’s a staple for Mother’s Day cookouts. With classic flavors from mustard, sugar, and celery seed, it will remind you of all your family traditions.
Get the Recipe: Amish Potato Salad
Watergate Salad
Watergate Salad is a five-ingredient salad that’s effortless to prepare for Mother’s Day. This make-ahead dish is light, fluffy, and sweet, making it a cherished addition to any spread. Is it dessert or salad? It doesn’t matter, either way it is delicious!
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad