19 Easy Make-Ahead Salads To Make Your Mother’s Day Stress Free

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read my disclosure policy.

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

Bowl of Amish macaroni salad with some on a spoon.
Amish Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

7 Layer Salad

Seven layer salad in a bowl.
7 Layer Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

Pea salad in a blue bowl.
Pea Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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 on a tortilla chip.
Texas Caviar Dip. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

A bowl of Broccoli Slaw
Broccoli Slaw. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

Three white bowls filled with ramen noodles and vegetables.
Ramen Noodle Asian Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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 fluff salad in blue bowls with whipped cream.
Cherry Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

Caprese salad with tomatoes and mozzarella cheese topped with basil.
Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

Bowl of Amish macaroni salad with some on a spoon.
Amish Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

Piece of lime jello salad topped with whipped cream and a cherry.
Lime Jello Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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 of noodles with celery and bell pepper.
Cajun Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

Healthy chickpea salad in a blue bowl.
Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

Orzo pasta salad in a blue flowered bowl.
Orzo Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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 with broccoli, cauliflower, cheese and bacon.
Amish Broccoli Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

Top view of a bowl of coleslaw with blue cheese on top.
Blue Cheese Coleslaw. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

Potato and egg salad in a blue striped bowl.
Instant Pot Potato Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

Grated beets, apples and carrots on a spoon.
Beet Coleslaw. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

A close shot of a fork full of broccoli salad.
Broccoli Crunch Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

Creamy potato salad with eggs and mayonnaise.
Amish Potato Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

Pistachio salad topped with nuts and cherries.
Watergate Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

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

anne

Hi, I’m Anne!

I love to cook and I want to share my recipes with you. I believe cooking should be approachable and fun, not a chore. I want to make simple recipes using everyday ingredients that you can make again and again, whether it is for a busy weeknight, a summer cookout or a special dessert. Read more...

Leave a Comment