Summer salads are a perfect way to enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients while staying cool in the heat. These filling options are great for lunches, dinners, or gatherings, providing both flavor and satisfaction. With a variety of textures and tastes, they make the most of summer produce before the season changes. Try these salads for a light yet hearty meal that’s perfect for warm weather.
Zucchini Noodle Salad
Zucchini Noodle Salad is a quick 15-minute dish made with fresh zucchini noodles, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella. This light yet filling salad offers a crisp, refreshing taste that’s perfect for a hot summer day. With its zesty dressing, it’s a flavorful way to enjoy vegetables. Try it as a main dish or side.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Noodle Salad
Veggie Couscous Salad
This Veggie Couscous Salad combines fluffy couscous with a variety of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. It takes only 20 minutes to make, providing a hearty, satisfying meal with a fresh and light taste. The lemony dressing ties it all together for a vibrant summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Couscous Salad
Citrus Asparagus Couscous
Citrus Asparagus Couscous is a bright and refreshing 25-minute salad featuring tender asparagus, couscous, and a tangy citrus dressing. The combination of juicy citrus and savory asparagus makes this dish both light and satisfying. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light main course on warm days.
Get the Recipe: Citrus Asparagus Couscous
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad is a crunchy and flavorful 20-minute salad with shredded Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and a tangy vinaigrette. The raw sprouts provide a fresh, earthy taste, complemented by the sweetness of the cranberries. It’s a filling salad that’s perfect for a summer lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad
Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad combines tender, smoky BBQ chicken with crunchy cabbage and corn in a tangy, flavorful salad. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a hearty dish that offers a satisfying mix of textures and bold flavors. The zesty dressing adds the perfect kick, making it ideal for a summer meal.
Get the Recipe: Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad
Summer Orzo Salad
Summer Orzo Salad is a vibrant 20-minute dish with orzo pasta, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light lemon dressing. This salad offers a refreshing and light taste that’s perfect for warm weather. The orzo provides a satisfying base, while the veggies add crunch and flavor, making it great for any summer occasion.
Get the Recipe: Summer Orzo Salad
California Steak Salad
California Steak Salad is a 30-minute salad featuring tender steak, avocado, and cherry tomatoes on a bed of fresh greens. This salad is filling and satisfying, with the rich flavors of the steak balanced by the creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes. It’s a perfect summer dinner option.
Get the Recipe: California Steak Salad
Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl
Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl is a hearty 25-minute salad with grilled shrimp, quinoa, and fresh veggies. The smoky flavor of the shrimp pairs perfectly with the nutty quinoa, making this a filling and flavorful meal. It’s ideal for a light summer lunch or dinner that’s both healthy and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Grain Bowl
Rubbed Kale Salad with Parmesan
Rubbed Kale Salad with Parmesan is a simple 15-minute salad featuring massaged kale, grated parmesan, and a lemony dressing. The kale’s earthy taste is softened by the tangy lemon and rich parmesan, making this a satisfying and nutritious option. Perfect as a side or a light main course.
Get the Recipe: Rubbed Kale Salad with Parmesan
Goat Cheese Salad
Goat Cheese Salad is a 20-minute dish that combines creamy goat cheese with mixed greens, walnuts, and a balsamic dressing. The tangy goat cheese adds richness, while the crunchy walnuts provide texture. This salad is both filling and flavorful, making it a great option for a summer lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese Salad
Israeli Salad
Israeli Salad is a quick 10-minute salad featuring diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions with a simple lemon and olive oil dressing. This salad is light, refreshing, and perfect for summer, with its crisp vegetables and tangy dressing. It’s a great side dish or a light meal on its own.
Get the Recipe: Israeli Salad
Faux Potato Salad
Faux Potato Salad is a 25-minute low-carb salad made with cauliflower instead of potatoes, mixed with creamy mayo and crunchy pickles. It offers the familiar taste and texture of traditional potato salad without the carbs. Perfect for summer picnics or BBQs, it’s a healthier take on a classic dish.
Get the Recipe: Faux Potato Salad
Pistachio Fluff Salad
Pistachio Fluff Salad is a sweet 10-minute dessert salad made with pistachio pudding, whipped topping, and marshmallows. This creamy, fluffy salad is a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Its light and sweet flavor makes it a favorite for picnics and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Fluff Salad