This summer, cool dishes are the big thing. With 13 different chilled plates that are sure to make everyone happy, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether looking for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner option, these options are perfect for beating the heat. Eating cold food when it’s hot out is a great way to stay comfortable. The list of cold dishes to try out is full of variety, making sure to appeal to different tastes and preferences. Each dish offers a unique flavor that is perfect for summer dining.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
If you enjoy a mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, then tossing together a salad inspired by the vibrant streets of Mexico is a great idea. It uses charred corn off the cob, making it a crunchy and fresh option for any summer table. Add some creamy dressing, cheese, and a hint of chili for that perfect balance. Ideal for both big gatherings and a quiet lunch, a Mexican Street Corn Salad never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts
There’s something incredible about the combination of tender chicken, tangy cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. It brings a unique twist to your usual chicken salad, striking the perfect balance between fruity and nutty flavors. This dish is not only refreshing but also packs a punch of protein, making it both a satisfying and nutritious choice. Whether it’s a picnic or a simple weeknight dinner, this Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts fits the bill perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts
Shirazi Salad
For those who appreciate the simpler things in life, a Shirazi Salad brings a burst of freshness with every bite. Originating from the Persian culinary tradition, it’s a colorful blend of chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, dressed in lime juice and olive oil. This salad is a testament to how minimal ingredients can create a refreshing side dish. It’s an excellent accompaniment to any meal, especially during the hotter months.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
Who says salads have to be boring? Give leftover rotisserie chicken a new life by mixing it with your favorite pasta and some crisp veggies. What you get is a Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad that’s as fulfilling as a meal can get, offering both the comfort of pasta and the lightness of a salad. It’s the perfect dish for those days when you want something hearty yet refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic
For a touch of spring in your meal, try a Potato Salad dressed with fresh herbs and green garlic. This dish elevates the humble potato to something extraordinary, combining the earthy taste of potatoes with the bright, fresh flavors of herbs and garlic. It’s a refreshing take on the classic potato salad and is as at home at a barbecue as it is at a fine dining table. Enjoy it as a side or as a light meal on its own.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad with Herbs & Green Garlic
Yellow Bean & Potato Salad
Sometimes, the best flavors come from the simplest of combinations, like in this Yellow Bean and Potato Salad. It’s a wonderful mix of tender beans and potatoes, brought to life with a light vinaigrette. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a simple family dinner, it showcases how seasonal produce can shine with minimal effort. Not to mention, it’s a fantastic way to add a burst of color to your table.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Bean & Potato Salad
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Picture a dish that takes you to the Mediterranean with every bite; that’s what you get with an Orzo Salad mixed with plump shrimp. The blend of pasta, fresh vegetables, and seafood dressed in a light, lemony dressing is irresistible. It’s a stellar option for a light lunch or as a side dish that’s sure to impress guests. Not to overlook, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for any summer gathering.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Steak & Pasta Salad
Combine the robust flavors of grilled steak with the lightness of pasta, and you get a Steak and Pasta Salad that’s both indulgent and refreshing. It’s a meat lover’s dream, with perfectly cooked steak slices tossed with pasta and your choice of vegetables. This dish is a standout choice for a summer meal, offering a satisfying but not-too-heavy option for dining al fresco. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover steak from your last barbecue.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad
Salmon Pasta Salad
Imagine a dish where tender salmon meets the lightness of pasta in a refreshing salad. This Salmon Pasta Salad is exactly that, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy something a bit more substantial. It’s a great way to combine healthy omega-3 fats from the salmon with the comforting texture of pasta. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a dinner, it adds a sophisticated touch to any meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes
If you’re in the mood for something hearty yet distinctly refreshing, consider a Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna and Tomatoes. This salad brings together chewy wheat berries, flaky tuna, and ripe tomatoes, creating a satisfying meal that’s full of textures and flavors. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for a nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes
Tex-Mex Caesar Salad
Shake things up with a Tex-Mex twist on the classic Caesar salad. It introduces bold flavors and textures, turning a familiar dish into something excitingly new. Crunchy croutons, creamy dressing, and a hint of spice make this Tex-Mex Caesar Salad a memorable addition to any meal. It’s a perfect example of how a few tweaks can transform a traditional recipe into a modern favorite.
Get the Recipe: Tex-Mex Caesar Salad
Pesto Orzo Salad
There’s something undeniably comforting about a Pesto Orzo Salad, with its blend of tender orzo pasta, rich pesto, and fresh vegetables. It’s a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious, perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at dinner. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or just looking for something light and fulfilling, this salad checks all the boxes. Its vibrant colors and flavors are sure to brighten any table.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad
Southern Ham Salad
For a truly Southern twist on your meal, a Ham Salad offers a delightful mix of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ham, turning it into a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Perfect for spreading on crackers or stuffing into sandwiches, it brings a taste of the South to any occasion. This salad is a reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create something incredibly satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad