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Fresh, Flavorful, and Perfect for Hot Days
When summer heat rolls in, light and refreshing meals become the go-to. These seven summer salads are packed with vibrant produce, lean proteins, and zesty dressings—making them perfect for lunches on the patio, easy weeknight dinners, or sunny picnic spreads. Whether you’re craving something fruity, crunchy, or herbaceous, there’s a salad on this list for every mood (and appetite).
1. Grilled Chicken & Avocado Salad
A protein-packed salad with creamy, smoky, and crunchy textures.
Ingredients:
- 2 grilled chicken breasts (sliced)
- 1 avocado (cubed)
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 2 tbsp red onion (thinly sliced)
- Olive oil + balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
Toss all ingredients in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.
2. Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad
A sweet and salty combo that’s unbelievably refreshing.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups watermelon (cubed)
- 1 cucumber (sliced thin)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta
- 1 tbsp fresh mint (chopped)
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Toss gently and chill before serving.
3. Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
The Italian summer classic made even better with a rich drizzle.
Ingredients:
- 2 large heirloom tomatoes (sliced)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced)
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Olive oil, salt, pepper
Instructions:
Layer tomato and mozzarella slices, sprinkle with basil, drizzle with oil and balsamic glaze. Season and serve.
4. Thai Peanut Noodle Salad
A crunchy, flavor-packed salad that’s great for meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice noodles
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup red cabbage (shredded)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
Dressing:
- 2 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
Instructions:
Whisk dressing ingredients. Toss salad ingredients with noodles and dressing. Chill and serve cold.
5. Citrus Quinoa and Arugula Bowl
Zingy and nutritious with citrus and nutty notes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (cooled)
- 2 cups baby arugula
- 1/2 orange (segmented)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1 tbsp olive oil + 1 tsp orange juice
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients, drizzle with dressing, and toss lightly. Garnish with extra citrus zest.
6. Heirloom Tomato & Corn Salad
A rustic summer salad bursting with seasonal flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heirloom tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or grilled)
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Instructions:
Mix all ingredients together. Chill for 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
7. Greek Chickpea Salad
Bright, briny, and super satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas (drained)
- 1/2 cup cucumber (diced)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives (sliced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (chopped)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, toss with dressing, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes before serving.
🥗 Quick Tip:
Make extra! Most of these salads keep well in the fridge for 1–2 days and are perfect for meal prep or quick summer lunches.
