Summer salads are all about fresh, vibrant ingredients that are light, refreshing, and perfect for warm weather.
Here are some delicious summer salad recipes to try:
1. Classic Caprese Salad
A simple, elegant salad that highlights fresh summer tomatoes and basil.
Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 ball fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or glaze)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Arrange alternating slices of tomato and mozzarella on a platter.
- Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.
2. Watermelon Feta Salad
A sweet and savory salad that’s incredibly refreshing.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed watermelon
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine watermelon, feta, mint, and red onion (if using).
- Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice.
- Gently toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Serve chilled.
3. Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad
A smoky, sweet, and peppery salad that’s perfect for summer.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 4 cups arugula
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush peach halves with olive oil.
- Grill peaches for 2-3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear.
- Arrange arugula on a platter. Top with grilled peaches, goat cheese, and nuts.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites)
A creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy corn salad inspired by Mexican street food.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (grilled or roasted for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine corn, mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using).
- Add lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
5. Cucumber Avocado Salad
A cool, creamy, and crunchy salad that’s perfect for hot days.
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, avocado, red onion, and dill.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Gently toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.
6. Berry Spinach Salad
A sweet and tangy salad packed with summer berries.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or pecans
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette (or poppy seed dressing)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine spinach, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, goat cheese, and almonds.
- Drizzle with dressing and toss gently. Serve immediately.
7. Greek Quinoa Salad
A protein-packed, Mediterranean-inspired salad.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine quinoa, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, feta, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
These summer salads are perfect for picnics, barbecues, or light dinners. Let me know which one you try! 😊
