When ordering a fancy gourmet salad at an upscale downtown spot, it doesn’t require much thought. However, the idea of ordering a chopped chicken Caesar or an avocado-loaded Cobb from a fast food drive-thru might give many customers pause.
Why? Because let’s face it—fast food chains have a reputation for not being the go-to for fresh, healthy salads. You might assume that quality greens and fresh veggies would be the least of a burger or fried chicken restaurant’s priorities. And, in some cases, that assumption holds true.
But here’s the good news: not all fast food chains serve pre-made, wilted salads that have been sitting in the kitchen for days. In fact, several fast and fast-casual restaurants pride themselves on offering freshly-prepared salads made with high-quality ingredients every day.
You might be surprised by which ones they are! From popular burger joints to beloved chicken chains and even sandwich shops, these fast food places serve up salads that are made fresh daily.
Wendy’s
Wendy’s is widely recognized for its fresh, never-frozen beef burgers and signature Frosty, but they also do a great job with salads. The company proudly offers a “Fresh-Made Salad Lineup” with all ingredients prepared fresh daily.
According to employees, the salads are made to order, with fresh lettuce and tomatoes delivered daily. Wendy’s salads are often praised for their taste, and the freshness of the veggies really enhances the flavor, making them one of the best fast food salad options out there.
Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A is synonymous with chicken sandwiches, but they’ve also earned a reputation for their fresh salads. Their three salad options—the Cobb, Spicy Southwest, and Market salads—are all prepared fresh every day.
The salads feature crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, fresh berries, and other high-quality ingredients that ensure a fresh and satisfying meal. Chick-fil-A guarantees that their salads are fresh, and many customers agree that the salads are just as delicious as their famous chicken sandwiches.
Zaxby’s
Zaxby’s, a chicken-focused fast food chain, serves up salads (or “Zalads”) that are made fresh twice a day. Zaxby’s employees confirm that the salads, such as the Cobb, Blue, Asian Zensation, and House salad, are prepared with fresh ingredients.
Whether you’re craving a grilled chicken salad or just enjoy fresh veggies, Zaxby’s is a great choice for a healthy fast food option.
Sweetgreen
Sweetgreen is a fast-casual chain that specializes in healthy salads and bowls made from ethically-sourced, fresh ingredients. Sweetgreen’s commitment to nutritious eating is evident in its wide variety of fresh salad options, like the Autumn Harvest Bowl or Super Green Goddess salad.
Everything is assembled fresh upon order, ensuring that your salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. With over 140 locations across the U.S., Sweetgreen offers a refreshing alternative to traditional fast food.
Saladworks
Saladworks is a fast-casual restaurant that specializes in made-to-order salads, offering creative options like the Buffalo Blue, Classic Greek, and Southwest Chipotle Ranch salads. Known for using fresh, high-quality ingredients, Saladworks ensures that every salad is made fresh for each customer.
While Saladworks has fewer locations compared to other chains, it’s worth stopping by if you’re near one. The company’s dedication to fresh ingredients is clear in every bite.
El Pollo Loco
El Pollo Loco is known for its delicious chicken, but it also offers fresh salads made with hand-chopped lettuce and grilled chicken. The chain promises that its salads are made fresh every day, and customer reviews confirm the quality of the ingredients.
Whether you’re choosing a salad with grilled chicken, beans, or veggies, El Pollo Loco serves up flavorful, fresh meals that won’t disappoint.
Panera Bread
Panera Bread is a favorite for many when it comes to fresh salads and sandwiches. With positions like “Salad and Sandwich Maker” in their workforce, it’s clear that salads at Panera are prepared fresh daily.
The Fuji Apple Salad and other options are made with high-quality, real ingredients. Panera’s salads are assembled fresh upon order, ensuring you get the best flavor and freshness in every bite.
Chipotle
Chipotle has become a leader in serving fresh, high-quality ingredients. Since 2017, they’ve eliminated artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives from their menu. Each salad is prepared fresh, with ingredients like beans, spinach, cilantro, and Monterey Jack cheese, all hand-picked for quality. Chipotle’s customizable salad bowls are made right before your eyes, ensuring freshness with every order.
Dairy Queen
Although Dairy Queen is more famous for its frozen treats, the chain also offers fresh salads, such as the Crispy Chicken Strips Salad. While the selection is limited compared to other fast food chains, Dairy Queen ensures that their salads are made with fresh ingredients, offering a quick and healthy option for those craving something different.
