A Definitive Ranking of Trader Joe's Salad Kits

1. Lemony Arugula Basil Salad Kit

If summer had a signature salad, the Lemony Arugula Basil Salad Kit might just be it. Bright, zesty, and full of fresh flavor, it ties together peppery arugula, shredded parmesan, crunchy carrots, and roasted almonds, all topped with a basil lemon vinaigrette.

It's delicious when paired with grilled chicken or salmon off the grill. Otherwise, my favorite way to use this salad kit is by incorporating it into a caprese sandwich. Grab your go-to bread (I use ciabatta), slice up tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, and top with the Lemony Arugula Basil Salad to add some crunchy greens. For me, it's summer in a sandwich.

2. Organic Caesar Salad Kit

There's nothing more classic and comfortingly familiar than Caesar salad, and Trader Joe's Organic Caesar Salad Kit is an ode to the icon. It features crunchy organic romaine, shreds of parmesan, and croutons, giving you everything you need to make the OG salad without any chopping or prepping.

The best part? The creamy, garlicky dressing has just the right amount of black pepper and umami flavor to pull everything together. It's delicious as is, but this salad kit is an even more substantial lunch or dinner when topped with grilled steak, chicken, or shrimp.

3. Avocado Ranch Salad Kit

People who love avocados and those who adore ranch tend to be passionate groups. So, if you happen to enjoy both, you can't go wrong with the Avocado Ranch Salad Kit.

It's creamy, crunchy, and just the right amount of indulgent. You'll enjoy a mix of crisp shredded greens, grated cheddar, and crunchy corn chips, as well as a smooth, tangy dressing made with avocado and buttermilk.

This salad toes the line between rich and refreshing, making it just as fitting alongside pizza as it is with "healthier" entrees, like grilled chicken.

4. Elote Chopped Salad Kit

Mexican street corn is downright delectable, and the Elote Chopped Salad Kit is inspired by the same bold flavors. It features a mix of cabbage, lettuce, kale, carrots, and green onions to provide a fresh crunch, while roasted sweet corn and paprika-seasoned cornbread crumbles add texture.

Of course, this salad wouldn't be complete without some cotija cheese and the true MVP, elote-style dressing. Tangy with a bit of heat, the kit is strong enough to stand alone or can be elevated with a few slices of avocado.

5. Southwestern Chopped Salad Kit

Anyone who loves zesty, hearty flavors shouldn't sleep on the Southwestern Chopped Salad Kit.

With a base of chopped cabbage, romaine, radish, carrots, and green onions, it offers a satisfying crunch; meanwhile, pepitas and tortilla strips add some savory, toasty notes. You can also top your salad with crumbled cotija cheese to add some more saltiness. However, it's the spicy avocado dressing that brings this southwestern-inspired salad together.

Serve this salad as a vibrant side at your next barbecue or top it with grilled steak for a main that's rich in protein.

6. Organic Mediterranean Style Salad Kit

Celebrate coastal flavors with the Organic Mediterranean Style Salad Kit, which includes a blend of romaine lettuce, radicchio, shredded broccoli stalks, flatbread strips, and roasted chickpeas. Additionally, there are sun-dried tomatoes and creamy feta to round out the crunchier aspects.

Nonetheless, the real showstopper is the red wine vinaigrette with basil, oregano, and garlic. Enjoy this salad entirely on its own or pair it with couscous, grilled chicken, or salmon for a Mediterranean-inspired dish.

7. BBQ & Black Pepper Toscano Chopped Salad Kit

Those willing to be a bit more daring (and don't mind some heat) should try the BBQ & Black Pepper Toscano Chopped Salad Kit. It's built on a base of crunchy cabbage, carrots, broccoli, and kale. Then, cornbread croutons deliver a Southern-style crunch, while black pepper Toscano cheese adds some nuttiness.

Finally, the BBQ sweet onion dressing is smoky, tangy, and just sweet enough to complement the rest of the blend. It's not your average salad, so you can wow at your next cookout by serving it as a side.

8. Sweet Chili Mango Salad Kit

Finally, the Sweet Chili Mango Salad Kit is tropical, spicy yet sweet, and vegan-friendly. The kit features shredded cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, and radicchio for maximum crunch. Plus, toasted quinoa, sunflower seeds, and bits of dried mango help deliver extra texture and sweetness, while the sweet chili vinaigrette brings Thai-inspired flavors to the table.

The result is a salad that's bold yet balanced. It goes great with a side of stir-fry but also works well in tacos or as the base of a bowl with tofu.