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Looking for a fresh way to beat the heat?
These 28+ summer salad recipes are here to bring vibrant color, bold flavor, and cooling relief to your plate.
From crisp greens to juicy fruits and hearty grains, each salad is bursting with seasonal ingredients that celebrate summer at its best.
Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, need a light lunch, or want a simple side for dinner, there’s a perfect salad waiting for you in this roundup.
With a mix of classic favorites and exciting new combinations, you’ll never run out of ways to keep your meals fresh, healthy, and satisfying all summer long.28+
28+ Quick & Easy Summer Salad Recipes You’ll Love
With these 28+ summer salad recipes in your recipe box, you’re all set to enjoy the very best flavors the season has to offer.
Whether you’re a fan of tangy vinaigrettes, crunchy veggies, or sweet, juicy fruits, there’s something here for every craving and every occasion.
So grab your favorite bowl, embrace the season’s bounty, and let these fresh, flavorful salads inspire your summer meals.
Avocado & Mango Summer Salad
This vibrant Avocado & Mango Summer Salad is a burst of tropical flavors, combining creamy avocado with the sweet, juicy punch of ripe mangoes.
The subtle heat of red chili flakes and a dash of lime dressing brings everything to life, making each bite a refreshing treat.
With its silky texture and juicy sweetness, this salad works perfectly as a standalone dish or a light complement to grilled chicken or seafood.
The contrast of creamy and crisp elements, along with the zingy dressing, makes this salad irresistibly satisfying.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
A Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a delightful balance of crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and the nutty richness of chickpeas.
Tossed in a zesty lemon-oregano vinaigrette, this salad is a flavorful journey to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean.
Perfectly suited for a light lunch or a side dish, this salad is as hearty as it is refreshing.
The saltiness of feta cheese and the crisp bite of fresh herbs add layers of complexity, making it a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.
Cucumber & Watermelon Salad
The refreshing Cucumber & Watermelon Salad is a perfect harmony of sweet and savory, with crisp cucumbers balancing out the juicy, sweet watermelon.
A hint of fresh mint and lime gives it a cool, herbaceous kick that tingles your taste buds in the best way.
Ideal for a hot summer day, this salad is an invigorating choice that can be served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own for a revitalizing snack.
The contrast between the crunchy cucumber and the juicy watermelon creates a satisfying texture, while the mint leaves a refreshing aftertaste.
Roasted Beet & Arugula Salad
This Roasted Beet & Arugula Salad combines earthy roasted beets with peppery arugula, creating a complex and exciting flavor profile.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze and the sprinkle of goat cheese adds a sweet, tangy, and creamy finish to each bite.
Its bold flavors and rich textures make it the perfect side for a light dinner or a filling main when paired with quinoa or a lean protein.
The sweetness of the beets and the sharpness of arugula come together beautifully, offering a unique and nourishing summer salad.
Grilled Corn & Tomato Salad
The Grilled Corn & Tomato Salad is an irresistible combination of smoky charred corn and juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes.
The bright, slightly tangy dressing made with lime and cilantro adds a refreshing and aromatic kick that enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
This versatile salad works well as a side dish for BBQs or as a light, satisfying meal on its own.
The crispness of the corn and the juicy burst of tomatoes create a delightful contrast, making it a flavorful and satisfying addition to any summer gathering.
Pesto Caprese Salad
A Pesto Caprese Salad takes the classic Caprese to a whole new level with the aromatic and herbaceous twist of basil pesto.
Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and a drizzle of the pesto sauce come together in a harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and savory notes.
This salad is a fantastic option for both a quick lunch or a stunning side dish at your next dinner party.
The richness of the mozzarella and the fragrant pesto will tantalize your senses, while the juicy tomatoes offer a refreshing, juicy burst with every bite.
Quinoa Salad
This Quinoa Salad is a protein-packed delight, with nutty quinoa providing a hearty base for crisp veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions.
Tossed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette, each bite is a burst of fresh, zesty flavor.
Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for grilled meats, this salad offers both texture and nourishment.
The crunchy vegetables paired with the soft, fluffy quinoa create an energizing meal that’s satisfying without being heavy.
Citrus & Avocado Salad
The Citrus & Avocado Salad brings together the creamy richness of avocado with the bright, tangy flavors of orange and grapefruit.
A simple honey-lime dressing adds a touch of sweetness, rounding out the refreshing citrusy punch.
This salad is light yet full of flavor, making it a perfect companion to a seafood dish or enjoyed by itself as a midday treat.
The smooth avocado contrasts beautifully with the zesty citrus, leaving you with a satisfying, refreshing experience with every forkful.
Kale & Strawberry Salad
The Kale & Strawberry Salad combines tender kale with the sweetness of juicy strawberries, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
A drizzle of balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of almonds give it the perfect balance of tangy and nutty notes.
This salad is great as a light lunch or a side dish to grilled meats, bringing both freshness and crunch to any meal.
The hearty kale stands up to the vibrant strawberries, while the almonds add a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Spicy Mango Salad
The Spicy Mango Salad offers a tantalizing balance of sweet, sour, and spicy, with ripe mangoes at the center of the dish.
Chopped chili peppers and a squeeze of lime create a lively, zesty kick that ignites your taste buds.
Ideal as a refreshing side or a snack on its own, this salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or seafood.
The sweetness of the mango mingles with the heat from the chili, making it a bold and exciting choice for a summer meal.
Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
This Roasted Sweet Potato Salad brings together the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette.
A sprinkle of feta cheese and crunchy pumpkin seeds adds richness and texture to every bite.
Enjoyed on its own or alongside roasted meats, this salad offers warmth and satisfaction in every mouthful.
The natural sweetness of the potatoes combined with the creamy feta and crunchy seeds creates an irresistible and filling salad.
Panzanella Salad
The Panzanella Salad is a classic Italian dish that combines cubed bread, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, all tossed in a flavorful olive oil and vinegar dressing.
The bread soaks up the tangy dressing, creating a comforting, savory texture in each bite.
Perfect for a summer picnic or as a side dish for grilled meats, this salad is a refreshing way to use up leftover bread.
The juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers balance the richness of the soaked bread, making it a satisfying, hearty salad that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Chickpea Salad
This Chickpea Salad is a vibrant and protein-rich dish, packed with the earthy flavors of chickpeas, crunchy cucumbers, and juicy tomatoes.
The zesty lemon dressing, with a touch of cumin and garlic, brings everything together with a flavorful kick.
Perfect as a light lunch or a satisfying side dish, this salad is quick to prepare and full of fresh, bright flavors.
The creamy chickpeas and crisp veggies combine to make each bite a satisfying, nutrient-packed experience.
Green Bean Salad
The Green Bean Salad is a simple yet refreshing dish, featuring crisp green beans paired with red onions, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy Dijon mustard dressing.
The bite of the beans and the brightness of the vegetables make this a standout summer salad.
This salad can be enjoyed as a side to grilled meats or as a light, nutritious snack.
The tender green beans, combined with the sharpness of the onions and the sweet-tart dressing, offer a balance of flavors and textures that are perfect for any summer occasion.
Cabbage Slaw
A tangy and crunchy Cabbage Slaw is the perfect accompaniment to any BBQ or grilled dish.
The shredded cabbage, combined with a slightly sweet and tangy dressing, creates a refreshing, crunchy salad that’s full of flavor.
Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it on its own, this slaw provides a crisp, satisfying crunch in every bite.
The tangy dressing enhances the cabbage’s natural sweetness, making it a must-have for summer meals.
Tomato & Cucumber Salad
The Tomato & Cucumber Salad is a light and refreshing dish, featuring juicy tomatoes and cool cucumbers in a simple, aromatic dressing of olive oil and fresh herbs.
The freshness of the veggies, with a hint of garlic and lemon, makes this salad a perfect summer treat.
Ideal as a quick side dish or a stand-alone snack, this salad is bursting with flavor and hydration.
The combination of juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers is both cooling and satisfying, with the dressing adding just the right amount of brightness.
Apple Walnut Salad
This Apple Walnut Salad is a delicious blend of crunchy apples, toasted walnuts, and leafy greens, all drizzled with a sweet balsamic vinaigrette.
The tangy apple slices pair perfectly with the rich, nutty walnuts for a perfect contrast of flavors.
Enjoyed as a light lunch or a side salad, this dish provides a satisfying mix of textures and tastes.
The crisp apples and hearty walnuts make it both refreshing and filling, while the balsamic vinaigrette adds a sweet, tangy finish.
Zucchini Noodle Salad
A refreshing Zucchini Noodle Salad offers a light, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta salads.
Fresh zucchini noodles are tossed with cherry tomatoes, olives, and a lemon-basil dressing for a flavorful, nutrient-packed dish.
Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this salad provides a crunchy, refreshing twist on classic pasta salads.
The zucchini noodles add a satisfying crunch while the tangy dressing infuses each bite with fresh, herbaceous flavors.
Caprese Salad
Caprese Salad is a timeless summer classic that blends juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves in a symphony of freshness.
A drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze enhances the natural sweetness and adds a rich, tangy depth.
This salad is elegant enough for entertaining and simple enough for a weekday lunch.
The soft cheese paired with crisp tomatoes and the herbal aroma of basil creates a refreshing bite that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Peach Burrata Salad
Peach Burrata Salad is a luxurious mix of sweet, ripe peaches and silky burrata cheese, topped with arugula and a splash of balsamic reduction.
The creamy texture of the cheese melts into the juicy fruit for a mouthwatering combination.
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or crusty bread, but it’s also satisfying on its own.
The floral aroma of fresh peaches and the creamy richness of burrata deliver a summer experience that’s both indulgent and light.
Asian Slaw
Asian Slaw brings a crunchy, colorful twist to traditional coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers tossed in a sesame-soy dressing.
The toasted sesame oil adds a warm nuttiness, while rice vinegar gives it a tangy lift.
Great as a side for grilled chicken or tacos, this slaw adds vibrant texture and a punch of flavor.
Each bite is crisp, zesty, and slightly sweet, making it perfect for summer picnics or light lunches.
Couscous Salad
Couscous Salad is a light yet filling dish featuring fluffy couscous, chopped vegetables, and fresh herbs tossed in a lemony dressing.
The grains absorb the flavors beautifully, offering a soft, satisfying base for the crunch of fresh cucumbers and tomatoes.
It’s perfect for meal prep, summer potlucks, or as a side for grilled proteins.
The subtle nutty flavor of couscous and the bright citrus notes make this salad both versatile and refreshing.
Broccoli Salad
Broccoli Salad is a crunchy and creamy blend of raw broccoli florets, crispy bacon, raisins, and sunflower seeds, all tossed in a tangy mayo-based dressing.
It’s a bold mix of sweet, salty, and savory with an addictive texture.
Whether served at BBQs or packed for lunch, this salad delivers a satisfying bite every time.
The raw broccoli keeps things crisp and green, while the dressing coats each ingredient in delicious flavor.
Greek Salad
Greek Salad is a vibrant medley of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese, all dressed in olive oil and oregano.
The salty feta and briny olives bring a bold, Mediterranean flair to this cool and crunchy salad.
Perfect on its own or alongside grilled lamb or chicken, this salad is a refreshing way to enjoy bold flavors with minimal effort.
Every bite is juicy, herbaceous, and full of summery brightness.
Corn Salad
Corn Salad is a bright, sweet, and slightly smoky dish featuring fresh or grilled corn kernels tossed with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a splash of lime juice.
The natural sweetness of corn is perfectly balanced by a tangy dressing and a sprinkle of herbs.
This salad is a summertime staple that pairs beautifully with barbecued meats or can shine solo as a fresh, satisfying dish.
Its juicy crunch and vibrant colors make it as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Spinach Salad
Spinach Salad is a refreshing mix of tender baby spinach, juicy strawberries or apples, crunchy nuts, and creamy goat cheese, all tied together with a light vinaigrette.
Each bite offers a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that dance across your palate.
Ideal as a light meal or a flavorful side, this salad offers both nutrition and elegance.
The crisp greens and juicy fruit make for a hydrating, texture-rich experience perfect for warm weather.
Arugula Salad
Arugula Salad delivers a peppery punch, softened by the creaminess of shaved parmesan and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes.
A simple lemon or balsamic vinaigrette adds brightness and enhances the greens’ bold character.
Whether paired with pizza, grilled dishes, or enjoyed solo, this salad is a flavorful and invigorating option.
Its sharp, zesty notes make it stand out while remaining incredibly easy to prepare.
Lentil Salad
Lentil Salad is a hearty, fiber-rich option made with tender cooked lentils, crisp vegetables, and a citrusy vinaigrette that adds a lively zing.
Earthy and satisfying, the salad gains extra depth from fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
Perfect for meal prepping or serving as a protein-packed side, this dish offers both substance and brightness.
The lentils’ soft texture contrasts beautifully with the crunchy veggies, delivering a nutrient-dense bite every time.
Conclusion
From backyard cookouts to weeknight dinners, these 28+ summer salad recipes make it easy to eat well and feel great all season.
Each recipe is quick to prepare, full of nutrients, and guaranteed to keep your menu exciting.
Bookmark this collection and come back anytime you need a refreshing, delicious idea to keep things cool in the kitchen.
