January is that month when we all collectively say,
“Sige, babawi muna tayo.”
After weeks of holiday food, desserts, and everything in between, our bodies start craving something lighter—but still satisfying. And no, that doesn’t mean sad lettuce and bland dressing.
This list of January salad ideas is all about fresh, filling, and realistic salads — the kind you’ll actually enjoy eating.
What Makes a Good January Salad?
✔ May protein
✔ May crunch
✔ May konting tamis or creaminess
✔ Hindi nakakainis kainin 😅
A good salad should still make you feel busog and happy.
1. Kani Mango Salad (The Peach Kitchen Favorite!)
This one deserves top billing — because it’s fresh, flavorful, and always a hit.
- Ripe mango cubes
- Kani (crab sticks), shredded or cut up
- Lettuce or mixed greens
- Japanese mayo or light mayo or my Creamy Mango Dressing
- Optional: sesame seeds or toasted almonds
Why it works for January:
The sweetness of mango paired with creamy kani makes this salad feel indulgent—but it’s actually light and refreshing. Perfect as a side dish or even as a light meal.
This is one of those salads na kahit hindi ka nagda-diet, mae-enjoy mo.
Check out my Kani Mango Salad recipe here.
2. Chicken Caesar Salad (Easy Home Version)
A classic that never fails.
- Romaine lettuce
- Grilled or pan-seared chicken
- Parmesan cheese
- Croutons
- Creamy Caesar dressing
Mom tip:
Use leftover chicken para mas mabilis.
3. Apple Chicken Salad
Fresh, crunchy, and slightly sweet.
- Lettuce or mixed greens
- Chicken strips
- Apple slices
- Candied walnuts or roasted nuts
- Honey mustard dressing
Great for lunch when you want something light but filling.
4. Shrimp Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
This one feels restaurant-level but is easy to make at home.
- Lettuce
- Lightly fried or grilled shrimp
- Carrots
- Dried cranberries
- Honey mustard dressing
Perfect for dinner when you want “healthy pero special.”
5. Asian-Inspired Sesame Salad
A salad that still pairs well with rice.
- Lettuce
- Cucumber
- Carrots
- Grilled chicken or tofu
- Sesame dressing
This works well as a side for grilled ulam.
6. Avocado Tuna Salad
No cooking required.
- Lettuce
- Canned tuna (in water)
- Avocado
- Tomatoes
- Light mayo or vinaigrette
Protein + healthy fats = busog talaga.
Can Salads Be a Full Meal?
Yes — just make sure to add:
✔ Protein (kani, chicken, shrimp, eggs, tuna)
✔ Healthy fats (avocado, nuts)
✔ Texture (croutons, seeds)
January salads should satisfy, not starve.
Simple January Salad Tips for Moms
✔ Prep greens ahead of time
✔ Store dressing separately
✔ Use leftovers as toppings
✔ Don’t aim for perfection—aim for balance
Healthy eating works best when it fits real life.
January salads aren’t about punishment.
They’re about feeling lighter, fresher, and better — without giving up flavor.
And honestly? If your salad has mango and kani, that already feels like a win 💛
