Summer’s here, and what better way to enjoy it than with some fresh, vibrant salads? These salads are just bursting with colors and flavors that scream sunny days and cool breezes. They’re perfect for any summer meal, whether it’s a quick lunch or something to bring to a get-together. You’ll definitely want to check out these 13 summer salads—you’re going to want to try them immediately!
Cucumber Kimchi
Keen on trying something uniquely flavorful with a kick? Cucumber Kimchi brings an exciting Korean twist to cucumbers, turning up the heat and flavor of any meal it accompanies. It’s surprisingly easy to make and serves as a bold side dish for BBQs and beyond. If you’re looking to explore bold and exciting flavors this summer, this salad is a must-try.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Kimchi
Asparagus and Shrimp Salad
On those warm evenings when you’re craving something light yet fulfilling, Asparagus and Shrimp Salad is the answer. It blends the best of summer produce with delicate seafood flavors, making each bite a taste of the season. This salad is the perfect way to upgrade a summer evening meal into something truly special. Trust us, it’s a combination that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus and Shrimp Salad
Kachumber Salad
When you’re aiming to add a refreshing element to your summer meals, Kachumber Salad steps up in a big way. It’s a cool, crisp side dish that brings a burst of color and flavor to your plate, complimenting heavier dishes beautifully. The simplicity of this traditional Indian salad is what makes it so appealing. It’s a healthy addition that you’ll turn to time and again throughout the season.
Get the Recipe: Kachumber Salad
Watermelon and Feta Salad
Looking for a modern classic that balances sweetness with a tangy punch? Watermelon and Feta Salad is a celebration of summer on a plate, blending unexpected flavors in the most delicious way. It’s the kind of side that fits in just as well at a casual picnic as it does at an elegant dinner. Everyone seems to love the refreshing combination, making it a summer staple.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon and Feta Salad
Spicy Cucumber Salad
If you’re all about adding a little excitement to your meal with a spicy kick, Spicy Cucumber Salad is the perfect pick. It brings a bit of heat to the table, complementing grilled dishes with its light, refreshing taste. This salad is a conversation starter, perfect for those who like to add a little spice to their life. It’s a great way to liven up any summer feast.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad
Salpicon de Res
Think of a dish that’s both filling and refreshing, perfect for those warm summer gatherings. Salpicon de Res is a lively salad that brings a bit of Latin American flair right to your plate, making it the star at picnics. It’s got a fantastic mix of flavors that satisfy your hunger and palate all at once. This one’s a real crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make all summer long.
Get the Recipe: Salpicon de Res
Mexican Corn Salad
For a side that screams summer, look no further. Mexican Corn Salad pairs amazingly with anything you throw on the grill, adding a little party to your plate with its bright flavors. It’s as quick to disappear as it is to make, guaranteeing its spot as a go-to in your summer recipe lineup. You’ll find that it adds the perfect festive touch to your spread every single time.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Corn Salad
Japanese Cucumber Salad or Sunomono
When the heat’s got you looking for something light and refreshing, this salad has got you covered. Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono) strikes that perfect balance of being crisp yet incredibly satisfying. It’s a hit at every outdoor event, bringing a refreshing crunch that brightens up your meal. This simple yet sophisticated dish proves that sometimes, less is more.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Cucumber Salad or Sunomono
Green Papaya Salad
For those adventurous eaters looking to mix up their summer salad game, Green Papaya Salad offers a crunch like no other. This Thai classic balances sweet, sour, spicy, and savory in every bite, making it a refreshing pick for hot days. It’s an excellent way to introduce new textures and flavors to your diet, showcasing the unique taste of green papaya. If you’re up for something different, this is the one to try.
Get the Recipe: Green Papaya Salad
Thai Larb
If a dish that’s both light and packed with bold flavors sounds good, Thai Larb is your go-to. Featuring the lively tastes of herbs, chili, and lime, it captures the essence of Thai cuisine in a refreshing way. Whether you choose chicken, pork, or beef, it’s bound to be a hit at any summer gathering. This salad invites you to bring the vibrant flavors of Thailand right to your backyard.
Get the Recipe: Thai Larb
Green Bean Salad
When you’re in need of a simple yet flavorful veggie side, Green Bean Salad steps up to the plate. It’s the epitome of summer freshness, bringing a burst of color and flavor that complements any main dish. This versatile salad is as nutritious as it is delicious, making it a go-to for picnics, BBQs, or even just a regular dinner. It’s an easy way to sneak in those veggies during the summer months.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Salad
Cucumber Raita
If you love a dish that cools you down on a hot day, this is it. With its creamy touch, Cucumber Raita becomes a fast favorite at BBQs and outdoor parties, offering a fresh contrast to spicy meals. It’s super simple to whip up and always adds a dash of elegance to the spread. Everyone seems to reach for seconds whenever it’s on the table.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Raita
Yum Woon Sen
For a dish that embodies the essence of Thai cuisine with a refreshing twist, Yum Woon Sen is a fantastic choice. This glass noodle salad is light and full of flavor, making for an ideal summer lunch or side dish. With herbs, seafood, and a tangy dressing, it strikes a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory. It’s a crowd-pleaser that impresses with its complex flavors and refreshing appeal.
Get the Recipe: Yum Woon Sen