Who says salads are just side dishes? These 15 scrumptious summer options challenge that idea big time. They’ve got all the makings of a main dish with vibrant, zingy flavors that stand up to any summer feast. And let’s be real, they’re so refreshing on a hot day, you might not want to share them with your gang.
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
Combine sweet, smoky peaches with fresh tomatoes to create a clash of flavors. The grill adds a nice char that enhances the sweetness of the peaches, giving Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes a robust edge. It’s a bright, refreshing choice for a hot day. You might find yourself wanting to keep this one all to yourself.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
Egg Salad
Egg Salad is a classic that’s more versatile than it gets credit for. Perfect for sandwiches or enjoying by the spoonful, this creamy treat is a picnic essential. With its rich flavor and cool texture, it’s always a hit when the weather heats up. Make enough to share, but don’t be surprised if you want to keep it all for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Bright, tangy, and loaded with flavor, Mexican Street Corn Salad takes all the beloved elements of elote and turns them into a salad that’s hard to resist. It’s packed with grilled corn and spices that make it infinitely appealing. This salad is a hit at any gathering, bringing a burst of flavor that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Shirazi Salad
Shirazi Salad, hailing from Persian cuisine, is a cucumber and tomato salad that’s vibrantly refreshing. It’s dressed simply with with oil to enhance the natural flavors. This salad is perfect for those who enjoy a lighter, crisp option during the summer months. Add it permanently to your recipe collection!
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts
Combining sweet cranberries with crunchy walnuts is Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. It is ideal for those who like a bit of texture and sweetness in their salad. It’s great on its own or as a filling for sandwiches. Great for a summer brunch or picnic, this salad offers a mix of flavors and textures.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts
Old Fashioned Ham Salad
Old Fashioned Ham Salad is a throwback that deserves a comeback, especially during the summer. Made with chopped ham, it’s both savory and filling. It works great spread on crackers or stuffed in pita bread for a quick, nostalgic meal. It’s so good, you might consider hiding it in the back of the fridge for later.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Ham Salad
Coronation Chicken Salad
A creamy, curry-spiced treat that’s a stand-out at any summer table is Coronation Chicken Salad. It’s rich in flavors and has a luxurious texture that makes it feel more decadent than your average chicken salad. Often served as a sandwich filler or on a bed of lettuce, it’s a versatile option that’s always a treat.
Get the Recipe: Coronation Chicken Salad
Mediterranean Tuna Salad
More than your typical tuna salad is Mediterranean Tuna Salad. It’s light yet fulfilling, making it perfect for a hot day. This salad is a wonderful way to lighten up a meal without skimping on flavor. Its freshness might just make it the star of the show at your next meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Salad
Greek Salad
Greek Salad, with its crisp cucumbers and other veggies, is a celebration of all things summer. The simple oil dressing lets the fresh ingredients shine. It’s a robust, flavorful salad that’s a hit at any outdoor gathering. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to hoard it all.
Get the Recipe: Greek Salad
Asparagus Salad with Lemon and Parmesan
Simple yet elegant, Asparagus Salad with Lemon and Parmesan is a fantastic way to enjoy this seasonal vegetable. Blending the bright flavors of lemon with the sharpness of Parmesan, this salad is both refreshing and filling. It’s a great side dish for grilled meats or a lovely meal on its own.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Salad with Lemon and Parmesan
Classic Caprese Salad
Classic Caprese Salad brings summer directly to your plate with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and vibrant basil. Drizzled with balsamic reduction, it’s simple, elegant, and incredibly tasty. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a starter. With something this delicious, you might find it hard to share.
Get the Recipe: Classic Caprese Salad
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
Turn a grocery store shortcut into a delicious, hearty meal with Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad. It’s filled with pasta, chicken, and a mix of vegetables, all tossed in a creamy dressing. Ideal for a no-fuss dinner or a picnic, this salad proves that simple ingredients can make memorable meals.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
Steak & Pasta Salad
Steak & Pasta Salad is a hearty option for those who love a little meat with their greens. With juicy pieces of steak and al dente pasta mingling with fresh vegetables, it’s very refreshing. Perfect for helping larger appetites at summer gatherings. Its bold flavors and filling nature make it a standout dish.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad
Southern Ham Salad
Want a aste of the south in every bite? Southern Ham Salad is packed with sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. This rich, chunky salad is great on sandwiches or eaten with a fork straight from the bowl. It’s a beloved recipe for family reunions and summer picnics. Handle with care because it’s addicting.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp features tender orzo pasta, juicy shrimp, and a medley of fresh veggies. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a summer seafood craving. Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s also filling in every bite. It’s so good, you might hesitate before passing it along.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp