Lightest DQ Item90 CaloriesDressing Included

Side Salad

$3.29

The definitive wellness option on Dairy Queen's savory board, the DQ Side Salad features a crisp foundation of shredded iceberg and romaine lettuce, ripe sweet grape tomatoes, and crunchy seasoned garlic croutons, served with dressing on the side. Delivering refreshing crunch for just 90 calories (before dressing) at $3.29.

Price	$3.29
Calories	90 cal (without dressing)
Total Fat	3g (without dressing)
Contents	Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, croutons, dressing
Available At	DQ Grill & Chill locations

Price & Calories — 2026

Size / Option	Price	Calories	Total Fat
Side Salad	$3.29	90 cal	3g
Regular Fries (small)	$2.49	260 cal	12g
Onion Rings	$3.29+	400+ cal	~20g
Cheese Curds	$3.99	470 cal	28g

Prices are 2026 national averages. Local DQ prices may vary.

The DQ Side Salad: Fast-Food Freshness and Caloric Balance

While Dairy Queen's culinary fame is built on indulgent soft serve sundaes and savory flame-broiled Stackburgers, the Side Salad serves as an essential option for mindful diners. At just 90 calories before dressing, it provides a crisp, cooling alternative to deep-fried sides like French fries or cheese curds. Packed with fresh chilled romaine and iceberg lettuce, plump grape tomatoes, and baked herb croutons, it offers dietary fiber, vitamin A, and hydration without sodium heaviness. Available exclusively at DQ Grill & Chill locations. Explore all savory options on Snacks & Sides or compare full menus on The Queen Dairy Menu.

Dressing Calorie Breakdown

Because the base salad is exceptionally light, your dressing selection determines the final nutritional profile:

Dressing Option	Serving Added Cal	Total Salad Cal	Nutritional Character
No Dressing (Plain)	0 cal	90 cal	Pure crisp hydration and fresh fiber
Fat-Free Italian	~40 cal	~130 cal	Tangy vinegar and herb blend
Balsamic Vinaigrette	~60 cal	~150 cal	Rich sweet-tart balance with olive oil
Classic Creamy Ranch	~140 cal	~230 cal	Traditional buttermilk and dill richness

Building Sub-600 Calorie DQ Combos

Replacing standard French fries with the Side Salad unlocks nutritious, balanced meal combinations under 600 total calories:

The Lean Poultry Combo: Pair a Grilled Chicken Sandwich (390 cal) with a Side Salad dressed in light Italian (~130 cal) for a high-protein 520-calorie meal.
The Classic Burger Swap: Pair an Original Cheeseburger (400 cal) with an undressed Side Salad (90 cal) for an authentic diner burger meal clocking in at only 490 calories.
Full Meal Upgrade: If you desire a salad as your primary entrée rather than a side, inquire about the Crispy Chicken Strips Salad Bowl ($9.49, ~470 cal).

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the DQ Side Salad?+

$3.29 with 90 calories before dressing. Adding Ranch dressing adds approximately 140 calories; lighter vinaigrette options add approximately 40–60 calories.

What comes in the DQ Side Salad?+

Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and croutons. Dressing is served on the side.

Is the DQ Side Salad available everywhere?+

The Side Salad is available at DQ Grill & Chill locations. DQ Treat-only locations do not serve salads.

Related Healthy Sides & Light Entrees

For the complete 2026 DQ food, treats, and drink menu, visit The Queen Dairy Menu.