Los Angeles is known for many things — palm trees, world-class entertainment, and endless sunshine. But over the last decade, LA has also earned a top spot on the map for healthy living and innovative dining. In a city that embraces personalization in every aspect of life, it’s no surprise that the concept of build your own salad Los Angeles has become a staple across neighborhoods from Downtown to Venice Beach.
Forget one-size-fits-all meals. In today’s health-conscious, diverse, and flavor-focused culture, Angelenos want control over what goes into their food — and build your own salad in Los Angeles is the perfect solution. Whether you’re vegan, keto, gluten-free, or just seeking a lighter lunch option, customizable salads let you eat clean and feel great without sacrificing taste or variety.
In this article, we’ll explore why the “build your own salad” concept is thriving in LA, what goes into creating the perfect bowl, the top ingredients to include, and where to go when you want a salad that’s made exactly your way — starting with Simply Salad, one of LA’s best salad destinations.
Why Build Your Own Salad Is So Popular in LA
Los Angeles is more than just a city — it’s a lifestyle. People here take their food seriously, especially when it comes to health, sustainability, and convenience. Here’s why the build-your-own salad trend is booming:
- Customization is King
In a city that thrives on individuality, LA residents want full control over what they eat. With a custom salad, you’re not stuck with ingredients you don’t like or dietary restrictions you can’t ignore. - Health-Focused Culture
From Hollywood actors to yoga instructors and tech entrepreneurs, everyone in LA seems to be chasing wellness goals. Salads offer the perfect platform for clean eating — packed with vitamins, protein, fiber, and flavor. - Diverse Diets
With so many Angelenos following unique dietary lifestyles — vegan, paleo, Whole30, low-FODMAP — the ability to build your own bowl means everyone can enjoy a delicious meal that works for them. - Fast but Fresh
LA’s hustle culture doesn’t allow time for long lunches. Build-your-own salads are quick to prepare but still fresh and thoughtfully made.
What Makes a Great Custom Salad?
Building your own salad isn’t just about throwing some greens in a bowl. The best salads follow a balanced formula that satisfies taste and nutritional needs.
- The Right Base
Start strong with a fresh, crisp base:
Mixed Greens: Great for general freshness
Kale: High in antioxidants and fiber
Spinach: Packed with iron and vitamins
Romaine: Crunchy and light
Quinoa or Brown Rice: For added heartiness and carbs
- Quality Protein
To keep you full and energized:
Grilled chicken
Turkey breast
Tofu or tempeh
Boiled eggs
Black beans or chickpeas
Salmon or shrimp
- Crunchy + Creamy Veggies
Layer your textures with:
Shredded carrots
Cucumber slices
Roasted bell peppers
Red onions
Corn
Avocado for that creamy finish
- Extras & Toppings
Make it exciting with add-ons like:
Feta, goat cheese, or shredded cheddar
Sunflower or pumpkin seeds
Croutons or crispy wontons
Olives, jalapeños, or pickled onions
Fruits like cranberries, apples, or mandarin slices
- Dressings
A good dressing ties it all together. In LA, house-made, healthy dressings are a must:
Lemon tahini
Balsamic vinaigrette
Spicy chipotle ranch
Green goddess
Olive oil + vinegar
Dairy-free Caesar
Always get it on the side if you’re watching calories or want to preserve freshness during takeout or delivery.
Simply Salad: The Best Build-Your-Own Salad in Los Angeles
When it comes to crafting your perfect bowl, Simply Salad sets the gold standard in LA. With multiple locations throughout the city, they’ve built a loyal following for their commitment to fresh ingredients, fast service, and fully customizable meals.
Why Simply Salad Stands Out
Total Customization: Start with your choice of greens or grains, then add proteins, toppings, and one of their delicious house-made dressings.
Signature Bowl Inspiration: If you don’t know where to start, Simply Salad’s Signature Bowls give you tried-and-true combinations to work from.
Affordable & Filling: Despite the high-quality ingredients, prices remain competitive. Portions are generous — no skimpy salads here.
Great for Delivery or Dine-In: Whether you’re eating on the go or sitting down with friends, the experience is quick, easy, and always satisfying.
Health-Focused Transparency: Nutritional info is clear, and ingredients are always fresh and responsibly sourced.
For anyone looking to build your own salad in Los Angeles, Simply Salad is a must-visit — blending convenience, quality, and health into every bowl.
Where Else to Build Your Own Salad in Los Angeles
While Simply Salad leads the pack, several other eateries offer fantastic build-your-own salad experiences:
- Sweetgreen
Well-known for its seasonal bowls, Sweetgreen also allows full customization. Their app makes it easy to order and save your favorite combinations. - Tender Greens
Known for its hearty plates, Tender Greens also has customizable salad options with a focus on clean proteins and local produce. - Mixt
Offering salads, grain bowls, and sustainable sourcing, Mixt provides a premium build-your-own experience in a polished, modern environment. - Lemonade
More marketplace-style than traditional fast casual, Lemonade has mix-and-match salad options you can build into a full meal with other sides. - Chop Stop
A no-fuss salad spot that focuses on chopped salads. They offer a wide array of ingredients and quick service.
Tips for Building the Perfect Salad
Want to become a salad pro? Keep these tips in mind next time you’re building your own bowl:
- Think in Layers
Start with a solid base, add protein, layer with veggies, and finish with extras and dressing. - Watch the Balance
Don’t go too heavy on one group. Aim for a good mix of greens, proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich veggies. - Avoid Hidden Calories
Cheese, fried toppings, and creamy dressings can turn your salad into a calorie bomb. Use them sparingly or opt for lighter alternatives. - Try New Ingredients
Salads don’t have to be boring! Experiment with seasonal produce, international flavors, or spice things up with a little heat. - Prep for Delivery
If ordering delivery, ask for dressing on the side and crunchy toppings to be packaged separately so they stay crisp.
The Future of Custom Salads in LA
As the build-your-own model becomes more popular, expect to see even more innovation in LA’s salad scene:
Smart Ordering Systems: Apps that recommend ingredients based on dietary goals or flavor preferences
Sustainability First: Compostable packaging, locally sourced ingredients, and carbon-conscious delivery methods
Global Flavors: More salads featuring Latin, Asian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern influences
Nutrient-Enhanced Options: Salads with added probiotics, adaptogens, and functional ingredients for immunity and gut health
Final Thoughts
When it comes to personalized, health-forward dining, few options beat the experience of building your own salad in Los Angeles. It’s quick, clean, creative, and above all — totally yours. In a city that celebrates individuality, this meal model fits perfectly with LA’s values of wellness, diversity, and efficiency.
Whether you’re looking for a satisfying workday lunch, a light post-workout meal, or something fresh for dinner, Simply Salad is the ideal spot to get exactly what you’re craving — your way.