Southwestish
The Weary Traveler Freehouse, 1201 Williamson St.
This one stars everybody’s favorite supergrain — but the sweet corn, quinoa and black bean salad doesn’t stop there. Avocado, tomato and cilantro continue the Southwest flavors, and the serrano orange vinaigrette adds a sweet-spicy punch. In its pure form it’s vegan; steak and chipotle mayo add-ons aren’t necessary for satisfaction, but are delicious nonetheless.
Szechuanish
Hubbard Avenue Diner, 7445 Hubbard Ave., Middleton
The spicy Szechuan salad comes with ginger-soy-marinated chicken as a default, but can be made with tofu (like!) or with tuna steak for a modest upcharge. Any of them will play nicely with the salad’s roasted veggies, corn relish and peanut-ginger dressing.
Heartlandish
43 North, 108 King St.
Think you know Brussels sprouts salad? 43 North torques the tradition with its burnt honey vinaigrette and pickled onions. The grain here is barley, a first cousin to quinoa in fiber and protein.
