Salads are evolving — and people are taking notice. No longer just a side dish, salads are becoming center-of-the-plate offerings driven by creative builds, bold flavor profiles, and seasonal adaptability. With 83% of consumers saying they like or love salad1, now is the time for operators to tap into this momentum.
Trend Drivers
Beyond the Leaf: Traditional leafy greens are taking a back seat to unexpected bases like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and roasted squash. These non-lettuce salads often feature lighter dressings and craveable textural toppings for a fresh, modern take2.
Classics, Reinvented: Familiar favorites like Caesar, Cobb, and Chef salads remain menu staples, but operators are giving them new life with seasonal ingredients, unique proteins, and inventive dressings. In fact, 34% of consumers are interested in Caesar variations using kale, arugula, or seafood like shrimp or salmon1.
Customization Culture: Salad bars are being reimagined with upscale toppings and premade bases that streamline prep while letting guests build their perfect bowl. This format continues to shine in fast-casual and institutional settings2.
Seasonal Freshness: From berries in the spring to squash in the fall, rotating seasonal ingredients not only reinforce freshness but also invite repeat visits throughout the year2.
All-Day Appeal: Breakfast salads are gaining traction, with builds that include jammy eggs, smoked salmon, or bacon. It’s part of a larger trend of menu items that blur the lines between dayparts and offer more versatility2.
Operational Advantages
Salads offer high-margin flexibility and operational ease. Dressings, in particular, can serve multiple roles — from marinades and finishing drizzles to dips and sandwich spreads —making them essential pantry staples. When paired with pre-prepped produce or ready-to-use grain blends, they allow for speed without sacrificing creativity.
Elevate Every Bite
From creamy classics like Ranch and Caesar to internationally inspired favorites like Asian Sesame and Cucumber Wasabi, dressings from trusted brands like Ken’s® bring big flavor and serious versatility. Whether an operator is crafting a hearty grain bowl, reimagining a Caesar, or building a seasonal salad, Ken’s offers the flavor-forward solutions that a menu deserves.
With more than 200 high-quality dressings and sauces, Ken’s makes it easy to meet evolving tastes and keep guests coming back. Use them to toss, drizzle, or dip. Every bottle delivers the consistent performance chefs trust and the bold taste guests crave.
*Content provided in collaboration with Ken’s
1Datassential Trends Report, 2024
2Datassential Green Salads Report, 2024