Best Salad Toppings for 2024
Incorporating toppings into your salad can substantially enhance your meal's flavor profile and provide a convenient avenue to increase the nutritional value of your diet. However, the vast array of options available can be overwhelming and make choosing the best toppings a daunting task. In light of this, we conducted extensive research and compiled a list of the most promising contenders.
First and foremost, nuts and seeds are an ideal way to add a satisfying crunch to your salad while also incorporating healthy fats. Consider garnishing your salad with almonds, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds to elevate its texture. Additionally, dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can provide a hint of sweetness without contributing excessive amounts of sugar.
For those seeking a more savory option, grilled chicken or tofu make excellent protein sources that can add an extra layer of complexity to your salad. Lastly, herbs and spices should not be overlooked, as fresh herbs such as basil or cilantro can impart a burst of freshness, while spices like cumin or paprika can introduce a touch of heat.
In conclusion, augmenting your salad with toppings can be a simple and enjoyable way to invigorate your meals. By utilizing our expert recommendations and selecting from our top-ranked products, you can tailor your toppings to your specific preferences and take your salads to new heights.
Our Top Picks
Best Salad Toppings for 2023
Modern Mill Farm Fresh Salad Topper (3 Pack)
The Modern Mill Farm Fresh Mixed Salad Topper by Gourmet Nut is a delicious and healthy snack mix topping that can be used to enhance the flavors of your favorite salads. Made from a blend of dried figs, walnuts, sliced almonds, sweet cherries, and roasted pumpkin seeds, this snack mix is gluten-free, kosher, and vegan-friendly. With a total weight of 6 ounces per pack, you can enjoy this snack mix in a convenient and easy-to-use package. It's perfect for those who are looking for a tasty and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.
This mix is also great for adding some extra flavor and texture to your favorite dishes, such as oatmeal, yogurt, or even ice cream. The combination of different flavors and textures in this snack mix is sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys healthy and delicious snacks. So, if you're looking for a nutritious and tasty snack that's easy to use and versatile, the Modern Mill Farm Fresh Mixed Salad Topper by Gourmet Nut is definitely worth a try.
Gluten-free
Vegan-friendly
Delicious mix
High-quality ingredients
A bit expensive
Small package size
May not be suitable for those with nut allergies
A delicious and nutritious mix of dried fruits and nuts, perfect for adding to salads or snacking. Gluten-free, kosher, and vegan.
Generic Salad Toppings and Bacon Chips Bundle
McCormick Crunchy Salad Toppings and Bacon Flavored Chips Bundle is a great addition to any kitchen. The bundle includes one container of each kind with storage/leftover bag, making it perfect for topping salads, baked potatoes, and more. The toppings are made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. These crunchy toppings are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. The bacon-flavored chips are perfect for adding a smoky and savory taste to any dish. The bundle is also convenient for storage and leftovers. Overall, this bundle is a must-have for anyone who loves to add a bit of crunch and flavor to their meals.
Convenient bundle
Adds flavor to dishes
Crunchy texture
Easy storage
Artificial flavoring
High sodium content
Not suitable for vegetarians
Add delicious crunch to salads and more with McCormick's bundle of Bacon Flavored Chips and Crunchy Salad Toppings. Comes with a storage bag for leftovers.
Good Sense Almond & Cranberry Salad Toppings
Salad Pizazz! Almond Toppings, Honey Roasted with Cranberries is a versatile snack mix that can also be used as a salad topping, perfect for those looking for a healthy and flavorful addition to their meals. The 3.5-ounce resealable bag is convenient for on-the-go snacking or for adding a touch of sweetness to your favorite salads. The mix combines crunchy honey-roasted almonds with chewy dried cranberries for a satisfying texture and a burst of flavor. Plus, the package is made with high-quality materials to ensure the freshness of the product.
Delicious snack mix
Great salad topping
Resealable bag
Convenient size
May contain allergens
Only 3.5 oz
Expensive for size
Salad Pizazz! Almond Toppings are a delicious snack mix and salad topping with honey roasted almonds and dried cranberries. Resealable packaging for freshness.
Generic Salad Toppings and Bacon Bits Bundle
The McCormick Crunchy Salad Toppings and Bacon Flavored Bits Bundle is a must-have for any salad lover. With one container of each and a bonus storage/leftover bag, this bundle is perfect for topping salads, baked potatoes, and more. The bacon-flavored bits add a savory crunch to any dish, while the salad toppings provide a delicious mix of seeds, nuts, and croutons. Made with high-quality ingredients, these toppings are sure to elevate any meal. Plus, the bonus storage bag makes it easy to keep your toppings fresh for longer. Get your hands on this bundle today and take your salads to the next level!
Convenient bundle
Adds flavor to dishes
Versatile use
Bonus storage bag
Artificial bacon flavor
May contain preservatives
Small containers
Add flavor and crunch to salads and potatoes with this bundle of McCormick salad toppings and bacon flavored bits. Comes with a bonus storage bag.
Salad Pizazz Dried Blueberries & Honey Pecans
Salad Pizazz's Dried Blueberries & Honey Toasted Pecans Salad Topping is a perfect addition to any salad. Each 3.5-ounce bag contains non-GMO dried blueberries and honey toasted pecans, which are free of artificial colors and flavors. The resealable bags come in a pack of 12, making it convenient to have on hand for multiple meals. The sweet and crunchy combination of blueberries and pecans adds a delightful flavor to any salad. It can also be used as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or even ice cream. The lightweight and compact packaging make it easy to store and transport.
Non-GMO
Resealable bags
No artificial colors/flavors
Great taste
Expensive
Small package size
May contain allergens
Salad Pizazz's Dried Blueberries & Honey Toasted Pecans Salad Topping is a delicious and healthy addition to any salad. Non-GMO with no artificial colors or flavors.
Fresh Gourmet Crispy Red Peppers
Fresh Gourmet Crispy Red Peppers is a 3.5-ounce pack of low-carb and crunchy snack and salad topper. These peppers are lightly salted and are perfect for adding a pop of color and crunch to any dish. They are made of fresh red peppers that have been sliced and dehydrated to maintain their crunchiness. The pack of 6 is perfect for those who want to stock up on their healthy snack options.
These crispy red peppers are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. They can be added to salads, sandwiches, wraps, and even omelets to give them a delicious crunch. They are perfect for those who are on a low-carb diet and are looking for a healthy snack option that is both tasty and filling. These peppers are also a great source of Vitamin C and are gluten-free.
Overall, Fresh Gourmet Crispy Red Peppers are a must-try for those who are looking for a healthy and delicious snack option. They are perfect for those who are on a low-carb diet and are looking for a snack that is both tasty and filling. These peppers are also a great way to add color and crunch to any dish.
Low carb
Crispy texture
Versatile usage
Convenient 6-pack
Pricey
Small package size
Not suitable for cooking
Fresh Gourmet Crispy Red Peppers are a delicious low carb snack and salad topper. Comes in a pack of 6.
Fresh Gourmet Organic Seasoned Croutons (Pack of 9)
Fresh Gourmet Specialty Croutons Organic Seasoned 4.5 Ounce (Pack of 9) is an excellent addition to any salad or soup. Made with organic ingredients, these croutons are crunchy and flavorful. The small crouton size is perfect for a salad topper, and the pack of nine ensures you always have some on hand. These croutons are versatile and can also be used in stuffing or as a snack. Each pack contains 4.5 ounces of croutons, making them a convenient choice for busy households. With no artificial preservatives or colors, Fresh Gourmet Specialty Croutons are a healthy and delicious choice for any meal.
Organic
Specialty flavors
Crunchy texture
Pack of 9
Pricey
Limited quantity
Small package size
Fresh and crunchy salad topper with organic seasoning.
NaturSource Organic Salad Topper Smart Life Gluten Free
naturSource Organic Salad Topper Smart Life Gluten Free is a perfect addition to any salad. Made with organic and gluten-free ingredients, this salad topper is not only healthy but also adds a crunchy texture to your salad. This product includes sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and cranberries, which make it a delicious and healthy snack on its own. It's also great for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothies. This topper comes in a resealable bag, making it a convenient on-the-go snack for busy individuals.
Overall, naturSource Organic Salad Topper Smart Life Gluten Free is a great product for health-conscious individuals who are looking for a crunchy and delicious addition to their salads. The organic and gluten-free ingredients make it a healthy snack option, and the resealable bag makes it a convenient option for those who are always on the go.
Organic ingredients
Gluten-free
Convenient packaging
Adds crunch to salad
Expensive
Small quantity
May contain allergens
Delicious and healthy organic salad topper. Gluten-free and full of nutrients. Perfect for adding crunch to salads and other dishes.
Fresh Gourmet Authentic Wonton Strips
Fresh Gourmet Authentic Wonton Strips are a versatile and tasty addition to any kitchen. At 1 pound, this pack of low-carb strips can be used as a crunchy snack or salad topper. Made with authentic ingredients, these strips are a great way to enhance any dish. The size and weight of the pack make it perfect for families or individuals looking for a long-lasting snack. The strips are easy to use and can be added to any dish for an extra crunch. Whether you are using them to top your salad or as a snack, these wonton strips are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Overall, Fresh Gourmet Authentic Wonton Strips are a delicious and convenient snack that can be enjoyed by anyone. With their low-carb content and authentic flavor, these wonton strips are perfect for those looking for a healthy and tasty snack. They can be used in a variety of dishes and are a great way to add some crunch to your meal. So, if you are looking for a tasty and convenient snack, look no further than Fresh Gourmet Authentic Wonton Strips.
Low carb
Crunchy texture
Versatile use
Large quantity
High in sodium
Not suitable for gluten-free diets
May have a short shelf-life
Fresh Gourmet Authentic Wonton Strips are a delicious and low-carb snack and salad topper. Each pack is 16 ounces.
FAQ
Q: How do I choose the right salad toppings?
A: Choosing the right salad toppings can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. Here are a few tips to make the process a little easier:
1. Consider the base: Think about the type of greens you're using as your base. If you're using a milder lettuce like romaine, you might want to choose stronger toppings like onions or olives. If you're using a stronger green like arugula, you might want to go with more subtle toppings like cherry tomatoes or cucumber.
2. Mix textures: Add a variety of textures to your salad to keep it interesting. Try mixing crunchy toppings like nuts or croutons with softer toppings like avocado or cheese.
3. Keep it balanced: Make sure you're getting a good balance of flavors in your salad. Try to include something sweet (like fruit), something salty (like feta cheese), something crunchy (like nuts), and something acidic (like a vinaigrette dressing).
Q: Are there any toppings I should avoid?
A: While it ultimately comes down to personal preference, there are a few toppings that might not be the best choice for everyone. For example, some people find raw onions to be too overpowering, while others might find that certain fruits (like strawberries) don't pair well with savory ingredients. Additionally, some toppings (like bacon or fried chicken) might be high in calories and not the best choice if you're looking for a healthier salad option.
Q: Can I prep my salad toppings ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepping your salad toppings ahead of time can be a great time saver. You can chop veggies, cook protein, and even mix up dressings a few days in advance. Just be sure to store everything properly to prevent spoilage. For example, keep chopped veggies in airtight containers in the fridge and dressings in separate containers to prevent them from making your greens soggy.
Conclusions
After conducting an extensive review of various salad toppings, it's clear that the Modern Mill Farm Fresh Mixed Salad Topper and the McCormick Crunchy Salad Toppings and Bacon Flavored Bits Bundle are the top contenders. The Modern Mill Farm Fresh Mixed Salad Topper offers a unique blend of dried figs, walnuts, sliced almonds, sweet cherries, and roasted pumpkin seeds, making for a delicious and wholesome addition to any salad. Meanwhile, the McCormick Crunchy Salad Toppings and Bacon Flavored Bits Bundle provides a savory and crunchy element to your salad with its bacon-flavored chips and bits.
Overall, these salad toppings offer a range of flavors and textures that can enhance any salad. For those looking for a healthier option, the Modern Mill Farm Fresh Mixed Salad Topper is a great choice, while the McCormick Crunchy Salad Toppings and Bacon Flavored Bits Bundle is perfect for those who want a little indulgence in their salads. Whichever you choose, you won't be disappointed. Don't hesitate to try them out and make your salads more exciting than ever before!