21 Church Cookbook Salads That Still Bring People Together

From creamy chicken salads to make-ahead coleslaw and layered potluck favorites, these 21 recipes feel like they came straight from a time-worn church cookbook. Perfect for Sunday suppers, family gatherings, or picnic tables, these salads are big on flavor, tradition, and shareable appeal. Whether you’re looking for a crisp slaw or a crowd-pleasing seven-layer salad, this collection delivers that old-fashioned charm you remember.

Classic Overnight Seven Layer Salad

Classic Overnight Seven Layer Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Elevate your next gathering with this showstopping layered salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Fresh, crisp vegetables meet tangy, creamy dressing in perfect harmony—all prepared ahead of time so you can enjoy the party.

Get the recipe -> Classic Overnight Seven Layer Salad

Chef Salad

Chef Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Experience the timeless appeal of a traditional chef salad paired with homemade French dressing. This simple yet satisfying recipe offers a perfect balance of fresh ingredients and tangy flavors, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome lunch or dinner any day of the week.

Get the recipe -> Chef Salad

Green Jello Salad

Green Jello Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Green Jello Salad combines creamy cottage cheese, juicy pineapple, and fluffy Cool Whip for a refreshing classic that works beautifully as both a side dish and dessert. This simple retro recipe brings a delightful wobble and sweet flavor to any table.

Get the recipe -> Green Jello Salad

Classic Three Bean Salad (Ready in 15 Minutes)

Classic Three Bean Salad (Ready in 15 Minutes)
Image Credit: Vintage Recipes

This zesty three bean salad transforms simple pantry ingredients into a vibrant side dish that travels well and delights crowds. The tangy dressing perfectly complements the colorful beans, creating a timeless favorite for outdoor gatherings.

Get the recipe -> Classic Three Bean Salad

Newks Chicken Salad

Newks Chicken Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Savor the delightful combination of tender chicken, sweet grapes, crunchy pecans, and fresh celery in this homemade version of Newk’s famous salad. Our simple copycat recipe captures all the original flavors and perfect texture you love, ready to enjoy in your own kitchen.

Get the recipe -> Newks Chicken Salad

Make-Ahead Refrigerator Coleslaw: A Crisp, Tangy Side That Gets Better With Time

Make-Ahead Refrigerator Coleslaw: A Crisp, Tangy Side That Gets Better With Time
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Elevate your summer cookouts with this game-changing coleslaw that defies soggy expectations. Made with a zesty oil and vinegar dressing instead of mayo, it maintains perfect crunch for weeks. Prep ahead for effortless entertaining that never sacrifices flavor or texture.

Get the recipe -> Make-Ahead Refrigerator Coleslaw

Sweet and Sour Coleslaw

Sweet and Sour Coleslaw
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in our Sweet and Sour Coleslaw, where creamy dressing meets crisp vegetables in perfect harmony. This refreshing twist on a classic balances tangy zest with subtle sweetness for a side dish that complements any meal.

Get the recipe -> Sweet and Sour Coleslaw

Benihana Ginger Salad Dressing

Benihana Ginger Salad Dressing
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Elevate your salads with this vibrant, Benihana-inspired ginger dressing. The perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen in minutes.

Get the recipe -> Benihana Ginger Salad Dressing

Make-Ahead 24-Hour Marshmallow Fruit Salad

Make-Ahead 24-Hour Marshmallow Fruit Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

This creamy overnight fruit salad offers a delightful blast from the past. Marshmallows meld with sour cream creating a sweet-tangy base for fresh fruits. It’s a perfect make-ahead side dish that brings retro charm to potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings.

Get the recipe -> Make-Ahead 24-Hour Marshmallow Fruit Salad

Watergate Salad

Watergate Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in this nostalgic Watergate Salad, a creamy blend of pistachio pudding and cherries that brings retro charm to any gathering. This effortless recipe comes together in minutes for a sweet, fluffy side dish that’s sure to spark conversation.

Get the recipe -> Watergate Salad

Candle Salad

Candle Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Discover the charming Candle Salad, a nostalgic Christmas fruit dish that brings vintage flair to your holiday table. This simple banana creation delights with its festive presentation while offering a light, refreshing treat amid rich seasonal fare.

Get the recipe -> Candle Salad

Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad

Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Elevate your side dish game with this vibrant Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad. Creamy cottage cheese blends perfectly with zesty mandarin oranges in this easy, refreshing recipe that’s sure to impress at your next gathering.

Get the recipe -> Orange Cottage Cheese Jello Salad

Lime Jello Salad

Lime Jello Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in the creamy nostalgia of classic Lime Jello Salad. This velvety treat combines tangy cream cheese, sweet fruit cocktail, fluffy marshmallows, and crunchy nuts for a refreshing side dish that brings back fond memories of family gatherings.

Get the recipe -> Lime Jello Salad

Cranberry Jello Salad

Cranberry Jello Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Elevate your holiday table with this refreshing Cranberry Jello Salad. The sweet-tart cranberries blend perfectly with crisp apples and celery, while nuts add a satisfying crunch. This easy, festive side dish brings delightful color and flavor to any celebration.

Get the recipe -> Cranberry Jello Salad

Christmas Ribbon Salad

Christmas Ribbon Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

This colorful, layered Jello creation brings festive cheer to your holiday table. Each vibrant stripe delivers a sweet, refreshing taste that complements any Christmas feast. Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, it’s a beloved classic for good reason.

Get the recipe -> Christmas Ribbon Salad

Retro Revival: Classic Tomato Aspic with Shrimp Salad

Retro Revival: Classic Tomato Aspic with Shrimp Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Rediscover the elegant charm of vintage tomato aspic, a refreshing gelatin salad that beautifully showcases fresh tomato flavor. Molded with tangy lemon jello and served with a delicate shrimp salad center, this retro dish makes a stunning addition to your summer table.

Get the recipe -> Classic Tomato Aspic with Shrimp Salad

Shrimp Louie Salad

Shrimp Louie Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in our Classic Shrimp Louie Salad, a refreshing combination of succulent shrimp, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in minutes, perfect for a light lunch or elegant dinner.

Get the recipe -> Shrimp Louie Salad

Fruit Salad with Cool Whip

Fruit Salad with Cool Whip
Image Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in this nostalgic fruit salad, where fresh fruits mingle with fluffy marshmallows and creamy Cool Whip. Perfect as a light dessert or colorful side dish, this easy recipe brings a sweet touch of tradition to any meal.

Get the recipe -> Fruit Salad with Cool Whip

Jello, Carrots, and Pineapple? Discover the Surprising Charm of Sunshine Salad

Jello, Carrots, and Pineapple? Discover the Surprising Charm of Sunshine Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Brighten up your dining table with our delightful Sunshine Salad! This nostalgic orange carrot jello salad brings vibrant color and refreshing flavor to any meal. The simple recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Get the recipe -> Sunshine Salad

Subway Tuna Salad

Subway Tuna Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Craving that signature Subway taste? Our simple copycat tuna salad recipe delivers the perfect balance of creamy and savory flavors. Enjoy it between bread slices for a quick lunch or dinner that rivals your favorite sandwich shop.

Get the recipe -> Subway Tuna Salad

Chicken Salad Chick Classic Carol Chicken Salad

Chicken Salad Chick Classic Carol Chicken Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Tender chicken meets the perfect balance of seasonings, finely diced celery, and just the right amount of mayonnaise.

Get the recipe -> Chicken Salad Chick Classic Carol Chicken Salad

About Stephanie Manley

Stephanie Manley is the creator of CopyKat.com. She has been recreating copycat recipes since 1995. Learn more about Stephanie Manley.

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