Summer salad recipes have a reputation for being little more than a pile of lettuce with a few toppings thrown on top, but they can be so much more than that. The best salads are fresh, flavorful, satisfying, and substantial enough to be a meal all on their own. Whether you’re looking for an easy lunch, a side dish for your next cookout, or a simple dinner that doesn’t require turning on the oven, these recipes have you covered. From protein-packed options to bright, seasonal combinations, these are the summer salads you’ll want to make on repeat.
10 Summer Salad Recipes You’ll Make All Season Long
Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing or a salad hearty enough to serve as dinner, this list has a little bit of everything. These summer salad recipes are easy to make, packed with fresh ingredients, and perfect for everything from weeknight meals to backyard gatherings.
Crunchy Peanut Cabbage Salad
Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, this crunchy peanut cabbage salad is one of those recipes I come back to again and again. The combination of shredded cabbage, crisp carrots, and bell pepper gives it an irresistible crunch. This would pair so well with grilled chicken for a perfect weeknight meal.
Crunchy Grilled Chicken Greek Salad with Roasted Potatoes
I’m always looking for more grilled chicken recipes, and this one came together on a whim with leftovers from my fridge and pantry—only to turn out insanely good. It’s crunchy perfection, packed with Mediterranean flavor, and hearty enough to stand alone as a main meal thanks to the roasted potatoes (my favorite part!).
Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Caesar Salad
Crispy Hot Honey Chicken is quick and easy to make, and super healthy, but you’d never know because of how much it tastes like a deep-fried, restaurant version. And the sauce, which is simply made by whisking together hot sauce and honey – it’s everything.
Copycat Nordstrom Cafe Wild Salmon Niçoise Salad
I think we can all relate to the feeling of wanting to eat something healthy, so you opt for “just” a salad. Well, let me tell you that this one is anything but “just” a salad. This Copycat Nordstrom Café Wild Salmon Niçoise Salad is packed with so much flavor and all the health benefits.
Protein-Packed Chicken and Edamame Salad
one of the (many) reasons I love this salad so much is how little time it takes to make. 15 minutes, you guys! That’s it. I’m newly in my mom era, but I know that no matter what point in life any of us are in, we can all appreciate a quick, easy and healthy meal.
Grilled Summer Pasta Salad
This summery salad is protein and veggie-packed, which means you’re already one step closer to the perfect weeknight dinner. It’s the most delicious summer salad that really comes together with a pesto vinaigrette.
Flank Steak & Avocado Chimichurri Salad
Does it get any better than grilled corn and flank steak on a salad? If you ask me, there’s no better way to celebrate the end (or beginning or middle, lol) of summer than with something as flavorful, colorful, healthy and delish as this one.
Easy Watermelon Salad Recipe with Feta & Cucumber
This easy watermelon salad recipe is one of the most refreshing and colorful summer salads you can make — ready in just minutes and perfect for BBQs, picnics, or weeknight dinners. Juicy watermelon cubes are paired with crisp cucumber, fresh mint and basil, creamy feta, a splash of lime, and optional jalapeño for a bright, bold flavor. This combination of sweet, salty, and citrusy ingredients makes it a fan-favorite summer side dish that will disappear fast!
Healthy Asian Chicken Salad
This colorful salad combines tender shredded chicken, crisp cabbage, romaine lettuce, carrots, fresh herbs, and toasted almonds, all tossed in a vibrant sesame ginger dressing made with tamari, garlic, honey, and toasted sesame oil.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Salad
Any salad that involves chicken, bacon and ranch is a salad for me. I know salads don’t always sound so exciting, and I’m obviously biased, but this Chicken Bacon Ranch Salad is by far superior. It’s easy to throw together, high in protein and flavor, and just an overall winner. My stomach is growling just thinking about it.
