With the heat, just a quick salad is not enough. You’ll need one that’s ridiculously easy and somehow keep its freshness through the summer sun. These 13 recipes are ones that you can toss in minutes, keep in the fridge for long (or not, it’s up to you), and eat as is. They won’t make the house hotter than it already is, while helping you cool down with its fresh and delicious taste. Try them and keep a bowl in your fridge for later.
BBQ Vinaigrette Dressing
Don’t forget the dressing. Elevate your salad dressing with this smoky and tangy BBQ vinaigrette, adding a burst of flavor to any salad creation—a perfect addition to your hot weather meals when salads are the star. Transform your salads with the rich and bold taste of barbecue in every bite.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Vinaigrette Dressing
Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad
Panzarella is a classic Italian salad. Update it with Mediterranean flavors in this cucumber and tomato salad that is a cool and refreshing side dish for summer.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumber Salad
Refresh and hydrate with this cool and crisp cucumber salad, perfect as a side dish on hot summer days when cooking is out of the question. Enjoy the simplicity of fresh cucumbers, herbs, and a tangy dressing that will invigorate your palate.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad
Bacon Egg Salad
An egg salad sandwich is a classic, but like the saying goes: Everything is better with bacon. This egg salad is the modern version of the one you fell in love with as a kid. Go ahead – enjoy it on that old fashioned white bread you still love.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg Salad
Vegan Couscous salad
Couscous is so often forgotten, but it is a great way to incorporate so many flavors. This version has tons of veggies mixed in and is robust enough to be a main course or fits perfectly alongside anything you pull off the grill.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous salad
Spinach Orzo Salad
You will love this simple side dish that is far beyond any pasta salad you have ever tried. The savory ingredients get mixed into fresh hot orzo and spinach to create a perfect pairing for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Orzo Salad
Lemon Kale Salad
Forget what you thin you know about kale. THIS is how you eat kale. This tangy and simple lemon dressing paired with a litte parmesan cheese and fresh kale is a winner.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Kale Salad
Veggie Pasta Salad
Savor the taste of summer with this mayo-free pasta salad. This refreshing and light salad combines al dente pasta with fresh veggies like corn and tomatoes, plus tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing for a Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a satisfying side dish.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pasta Salad
Goat Cheese and Dried Cherry Salad
Don’t get stuck on the same boring salad. This goat cheese and dried cherry salad is bursting with flavor and takes just a few minutes to pull together. Just be ready when people ask you for hte recipe.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese and Dried Cherry Salad
Avocado Tomato Salad
Salad is so much more than just lettuce and dressing, and this avocado tomato salad proves that point. It’s a plethora of veggies tossed with romaine a fresh dressing you blitz together in your blender. Summer on a fork.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Tomato Salad
Tomato Quinoa Salad
Enjoy a nutritious and flavorful combination of tomatoes, cucumber and quinoa in this wholesome salad — a great way to use up fresh produce from your garden and enjoy a satisfying summer meal. Experience the harmony of this tasty salad you can make ahead.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Quinoa Salad
Spinach Caprese Salad
Delight in the classic combination of spinach and caprese flavors in this refreshing and vibrant salad — a perfect choice for hot weather when salads make a delicious and satisfying meal. Experience the symphony of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and prosciutto with every forkful.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Caprese Salad
Greek Yogurt Ranch Dressing
Indulge in the tangy and creamy Greek Yogurt Ranch Dressing. Made with herbs and spices, this guilt-free alternative adds a delightful twist to salads, veggies, and more. Elevate your taste buds with this healthier, flavorful dressing.
Get the Recipe: Greek Yogurt Ranch Dressing