15 Refreshing Summer Salads That’ll Make You Feel Like It’s Always Vacation Time!

Summer is here, and that means it’s time for vibrant, fresh salads bursting with flavors and colors.

Each bite is a celebration of seasonal ingredients, making it feel like you’re on a perpetual vacation.

From crisp greens to juicy fruits, these 15 refreshing summer salads will not only satisfy your taste buds but also keep you feeling light and energized.

Let’s explore these easy and healthy recipes that are perfect for pool parties, picnics, or just a casual lunch in your backyard!

Contents

• 1. Watermelon Feta Salad
• 2. Avocado Corn Salad
• 3. Greek Pasta Salad
• 4. Caprese Salad Skewers
• 5. Quinoa Chickpea Salad
• 6. Spinach Strawberry Salad
• 7. Tropical Mango Salad
• 8. Cucumber Tomato Salad
• 9. Asian Slaw Salad
• 10. Pesto Chickpea Salad
• 11. Roasted Vegetable Salad
• 12. Cabbage and Apple Salad
• 13. Chickpea and Avocado Salad
• 14. Grilled Peach Salad
• 15. Farro Salad with Roasted Vegetables

1. Watermelon Feta Salad

This delightful salad is the perfect combination of sweet and savory. Juicy watermelon cubes paired with creamy feta cheese create a refreshing contrast that sings summer. To prepare your ingredients effortlessly, a sharp chef’s knife can make slicing your watermelon a breeze. Add a sprinkle of mint leaves for a hint of freshness and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy finish that elevates the dish.

For the perfect serving experience, consider using an OXO Good Grips large salad spinner to wash and dry your greens and mint leaves effectively. It’s a great tool for ensuring your salad has the right texture and presentation.

Recipe Overview:

– Servings: 4

– Prep Time: 10 mins

– Total Time: 10 mins

– Calories: 150

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 150, Carbs: 13g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 10g.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups watermelon, diced

– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine watermelon and feta.

2. Gently mix in the mint.

3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Use chilled watermelon for an extra refreshing taste!

FAQs: Can I add another type of cheese? Yes, goat cheese works great too!

2. Avocado Corn Salad

Is there anything better than creamy avocado and sweet corn? This salad is super easy to whip up and oh-so-delicious. The combination of ripe avocados, fresh corn, and a squeeze of lime brings a fiesta of flavors right to your plate. Toss in diced red onion for a little zing, and you’re all set!

To make preparing this salad even easier, consider using the OXO Good Grips 3-in-1 Avocado Slicer to quickly and safely dice your avocados. This handy tool streamlines the process, ensuring you get the perfect avocado pieces without the fuss.

For the corn, whether you opt for fresh or canned, the OXO Good Grips Corn Prep Peeler can make stripping fresh corn off the cob a breeze. It’s designed to cut kernels cleanly, maximizing flavor and minimizing waste.

Once you have everything chopped and ready, a good salad spinner like the OXO Good Grips Large Salad Spinner will help you rinse and dry your ingredients quickly, making sure your salad is fresh and crisp.

Recipe Overview:

– Servings: 4

– Prep Time: 15 mins

– Total Time: 15 mins

– Calories: 180

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 180, Carbs: 15g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 12g.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe avocados, diced

– 1 cup fresh corn (or canned)

– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped

– Juice of 1 lime

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine avocado, corn, and red onion.

2. Drizzle with lime juice and toss gently.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Serve chilled.

Use fresh corn in season for the best flavor!

FAQs: What can I add for extra crunch? Chopped bell peppers work wonderfully!

3. Greek Pasta Salad

This Greek pasta salad is a classic summer dish that’s filling yet refreshing. Tossed with olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time! To serve this delightful salad, consider using a stylish bamboo salad bowl set, which not only presents your dish beautifully but also makes tossing and serving a breeze.

For the dressing, having a reliable salad dressing shaker can help you mix the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper effortlessly. It ensures that your dressing is well-combined and easy to pour over the salad.

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to add a twist to your pasta salad, consider spiralizing some vegetables for extra crunch and nutrition. A spiralizer vegetable slicer will allow you to create zoodles or veggie noodles that can be mixed in with the pasta, enhancing both flavor and texture.

With these handy tools, making and serving your Greek pasta salad will be a delightful and stress-free experience!

4. Caprese Salad Skewers

These cute little Caprese salad skewers are perfect for summer parties! Easy to assemble and packed with flavor, they combine fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil. The best part? A drizzle of balsamic reduction takes this bite-sized snack to the next level.

To make your preparation even smoother, consider using skewers for appetizers, which are ideal for threading your ingredients together. With 300 bamboo cocktail picks, you’ll have plenty on hand for all your summer gatherings.

For the balsamic drizzle that elevates the flavors, the balsamic reduction offers a rich and tangy finish that complements the fresh ingredients perfectly.

And to ensure your Caprese skewers feature the freshest basil, you might want to plant some at home. The fresh basil plants are a great addition to your garden, providing you with ample leaves to enhance not just your salad skewers but a variety of dishes.

Recipe Overview:

– Servings: 10

– Prep Time: 15 mins

– Total Time: 15 mins

– Calories: 100

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 100, Carbs: 6g, Protein: 7g, Fat: 7g.

Ingredients:

– 20 cherry tomatoes

– 20 mozzarella balls

– 20 fresh basil leaves

– Balsamic reduction for drizzling

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. On small skewers, alternate threading cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves.

2. Arrange skewers on a plate and drizzle with balsamic reduction.

3. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Use colorful tomatoes for a vibrant display!

FAQs: How long can I prepare these in advance? They’re best eaten fresh, but you can prepare the skewers an hour ahead.

5. Quinoa Chickpea Salad

Looking for a protein-packed salad? This quinoa chickpea salad is your go-to! With hearty quinoa and chickpeas, it’s filling enough to serve as a main dish while still being light. Tossed with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a tangy lemon dressing, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

To make this salad, you’ll want to start with high-quality ingredients. For the quinoa, consider using BetterBody Foods Organic Quinoa. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and a great low-glycemic rice replacement. This 24-ounce bag will ensure you have enough for multiple meals!

Next, grab a can of 365 Everyday Value Organic Garbanzo Beans. These chickpeas are pre-cooked and ready to add protein to your salad without any extra hassle. Plus, they’re nutritious and packed with fiber.

For the dressing, a good olive oil is essential. The Pompeian Smooth Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a fantastic choice. It’s first cold-pressed and has a mild flavor that perfectly complements the lemon juice in your dressing.

This salad stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days!

FAQs: Can I add other veggies? Definitely, shredded carrots or spinach are great additions!

6. Spinach Strawberry Salad

Sweet strawberries and earthy spinach come together in this delightful salad that’s perfect for those warm summer days. The combination of textures and flavors is simply divine, especially when topped with a homemade poppy seed dressing. To make your salad preparation a breeze, consider using an OXO Good Grips large salad spinner. This handy tool helps you wash and dry your greens quickly, ensuring they stay fresh and crisp.

This salad not only looks glamorous but tastes amazing too! The addition of walnuts and feta cheese brings a delightful crunch and creaminess, while a drizzle of Skinnygirl sugar free gluten free salad dressing, poppyseed elevates the flavor profile beautifully. If you prefer to serve this salad in style, a salad bowl set can add a touch of elegance to your meal presentation.

For a heartier option, feel free to add grilled chicken to the mix! Enjoy this refreshing salad that brings a taste of vacation right to your table.

7. Tropical Mango Salad

If you’re dreaming of the tropics, this mango salad is the perfect escape! With ripe mangoes, red bell peppers, and a zesty lime dressing, it’s like a one-way ticket to paradise. The textures and flavors combine to deliver a burst of summer in every bite, making it a fan favorite at any barbecue. To make your prep easier, consider using a mango slicer for perfectly diced mangoes with minimal hassle. Its micro-serrated stainless steel blade ensures that you can enjoy the fruit’s sweetness without the mess.

Recipe Overview:

– Servings: 4

– Prep Time: 15 mins

– Total Time: 15 mins

– Calories: 120

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 120, Carbs: 25g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 2g.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe mangoes, diced

– 1 red bell pepper, diced

– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

– Juice of 1 lime

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine mango, bell pepper, and red onion.

2. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper.

3. Toss gently before serving.

Add cilantro for a fresh twist! A handy citrus juicer can help you extract the perfect amount of lime juice, ensuring your dressing is both zesty and fresh. Plus, if you want to prepare a larger batch for a gathering, using an OXO good grips large salad spinner will make washing and drying your vegetables a breeze, keeping them crisp and ready for assembling.

FAQs: Can I use frozen mango? Yes, just let it thaw before using.

8. Cucumber Tomato Salad

Sometimes simple is best! This cucumber tomato salad is incredibly refreshing with crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette. It’s a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or just as a light lunch on its own. To prepare this dish, you might consider using an OXO Good Grips Large Salad Spinner to wash and dry your vegetables thoroughly, ensuring that the freshness of the ingredients truly shines through in this easy recipe!

Recipe Overview:

– Servings: 4

– Prep Time: 10 mins

– Total Time: 10 mins

– Calories: 80

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 80, Carbs: 10g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 4g.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups cucumbers, diced

– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/4 cup red onion, chopped

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 tablespoon vinegar

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. A set of mixing bowls with airtight lids makes it easy to mix and store your salad ingredients without worrying about spillage.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. For drizzling the oil with precision, an olive oil dispenser bottle can help you achieve just the right amount for your dressing.

3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.

Let it chill in the fridge for a bit for an extra refreshing taste!

FAQs: Can I add herbs? Fresh basil or parsley would be excellent!

9. Asian Slaw Salad

This Asian slaw salad is a crunchy, colorful dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues or picnics. With a variety of veggies and a tangy sesame dressing, it’s not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients. The combination of textures makes every bite exciting and fulfilling. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare! To make your salad-making experience even better, consider using an OXO Good Grips Large Salad Spinner to wash and dry your greens effectively. A salad spinner helps keep your salad crisp by ensuring that your vegetables are free of excess water.

**Recipe Overview:**

– Servings: 4

– Prep Time: 15 mins

– Total Time: 15 mins

– Calories: 150

**Nutrition Information:**

Calories: 150, Carbs: 20g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 7g.

**Ingredients:**

– 4 cups shredded cabbage

– 1 cup carrots, shredded

– 1/2 bell pepper, sliced

– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

– 1/4 cup sesame dressing

**Instructions:**

1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, and green onions.

2. Drizzle with sesame dressing and toss well.

3. Allow to rest for a few minutes to let flavors meld before serving.

Add chopped peanuts for extra crunch and flavor! For the perfect dressing, you can use Kewpie Creamy Deep Roasted Sesame Dressing & Marinade to enhance the salad’s flavor.

**FAQs:**

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

To prepare your ingredients, a good chopping board set is essential. These bamboo cutting boards are perfect for slicing and dicing your veggies while keeping your kitchen clean and efficient. Enjoy your refreshing summer salad that makes it feel like vacation time all year round!

10. Pesto Chickpea Salad

If you love pesto, this pesto chickpea salad is a must-try! The vibrant green pesto coats hearty chickpeas, making for a protein-rich and flavorful salad. For a hassle-free option, consider using Goya Foods Chick Peas, Garbanzo Beans to save time on cooking dried beans. Throw in some cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach for extra nutrients, and you have a filling yet refreshing dish. To elevate the flavor effortlessly, you can use 365 by Whole Foods Market, Basil Pesto, which is delicious and convenient. This salad is perfect for meal prep too, keeping well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days!

Recipe Overview:

– Servings: 4

– Prep Time: 10 mins

– Total Time: 10 mins

– Calories: 250

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 250, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 10g, Fat: 12g.

Ingredients:

– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

– 1/2 cup pesto

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 2 cups fresh spinach

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and spinach.

2. Gently mix until everything is well coated.

3. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

FAQs: What type of pesto is best? Homemade or store-bought works great!

11. Roasted Vegetable Salad

Add some roasted goodness to your summer salads with this roasted vegetable salad! Combining seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, this salad is both hearty and nutritious. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, it’s a perfect side dish or a filling main course when served with grains.

To make your preparation easier and more efficient, consider using a vegetable chopper. This handy tool allows you to quickly dice your zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, saving you time in the kitchen so you can enjoy your meal sooner.

When it comes to dressing your salad, use high-quality ingredients to enhance the flavors. A drizzle of Pompeian smooth extra virgin olive oil adds a mild and delicate flavor, perfect for roasting your veggies and serving in the salad. Finish it off with a splash of balsamic vinegar for a rich depth that elevates the overall dish.

Recipe Overview:

– Servings: 4

– Prep Time: 20 mins

– Cook Time: 25 mins

– Total Time: 45 mins

– Calories: 180

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 180, Carbs: 20g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 9g.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups zucchini, diced

– 1 cup bell peppers, diced

– 1 cup eggplant, diced

– 1/4 cup olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss veggies in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread on a baking sheet.

3. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.

4. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving.

Serve warm or at room temperature!

FAQs: Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely, any seasonal vegetables work well!

12. Cabbage and Apple Salad

This crunchy cabbage and apple salad is a surprising delight! The subtle sweetness of apples pairs perfectly with the crunch of cabbage, creating a fresh and vibrant salad. Tossed with a honey mustard vinaigrette, it makes for a refreshing side or a light lunch that is both healthy and satisfying.

To prepare your salad efficiently, consider using an OXO Good Grips Large Salad Spinner. This handy tool allows you to wash and dry your greens quickly, ensuring you get the freshest cabbage possible.

Recipe Overview:

– Servings: 4

– Prep Time: 10 mins

– Total Time: 10 mins

– Calories: 150

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 150, Carbs: 18g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 8g.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups green cabbage, shredded

– 2 apples, thinly sliced

– 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

– 1/4 cup honey mustard dressing

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, apples, and walnuts.

2. Drizzle with honey mustard dressing, like 365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Honey Mustard Dressing. Its perfect blend of sweetness and tang elevates the flavors of the salad.

3. Toss gently to combine before serving.

This salad is best served fresh but can last in the fridge for up to a day!

For chopping your ingredients, using a quality cutting board set ensures that you have the right tools to prepare your salad efficiently. A board with a juice groove is particularly handy for cutting apples, keeping your workspace tidy.

FAQs: Can I use different nuts? Yes, pecans or almonds work well too!

13. Chickpea and Avocado Salad

This salad is a protein powerhouse! Combining creamy avocado with hearty chickpeas, it’s not only filling but also incredibly nutritious. To make preparation easier, consider using the OXO Good Grips 3-in-1 avocado slicer for perfectly diced avocado without the hassle. Toss in diced tomatoes and cucumbers along with a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing summer dish that’s perfect as a side or a main.

To make mixing a breeze, the glass mixing bowl set is ideal; the non-slip bottoms keep everything stable, and the airtight lids are great for storing leftovers. Finally, to wash your greens or any other ingredients, the OXO Good Grips large salad spinner is a must-have for quickly drying your produce after rinsing.

Enjoy this salad immediately for the best flavor!

14. Grilled Peach Salad

Peaches are the epitome of summer, and this grilled peach salad celebrates their juicy sweetness! Grilling enhances their natural sugars, making them even more delicious. Paired with arugula, goat cheese, and a light vinaigrette, it’s a salad that’s not only beautiful but bursting with flavor. For the perfect grilling experience, consider using a grill basket to easily manage your peach halves on the grill.

Recipe Overview:

– Servings: 4

– Prep Time: 15 mins

– Cook Time: 10 mins

– Total Time: 25 mins

– Calories: 200

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 200, Carbs: 20g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 10g.

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted

– 4 cups arugula

– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium heat.

2. Brush peach halves with olive oil and grill for 4-5 minutes on each side.

3. In a bowl, combine arugula, grilled peaches, and goat cheese.

4. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.

This salad is a great side for any grilled meats!

FAQs: Can I use other fruits? Yes, grilled pineapples or nectarines work well too!

15. Farro Salad with Roasted Vegetables

Nutty farro combined with roasted vegetables creates a filling yet refreshing salad that’s perfect for summer. It’s rich in fiber and protein, making it an excellent choice for a hearty meal. To prepare this dish, consider using Roland Foods Pearled Italian Farro, which offers a delicious and nutritious base for your salad. Toss in some assorted roasted vegetables—like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots—and complete the dish with a light lemon dressing made from fresh ingredients.

A drizzle of Pompeian Smooth Extra Virgin Olive Oil not only adds delightful flavor but also ensures you’re choosing a high-quality oil that’s perfect for drizzling and sautéing. Enhance the freshness of your salad with the juice of one lemon and season with salt and pepper to taste.

For easy mixing, you can use the OXO Good Grips Little Salad Dressing Shaker, which makes combining your dressing a breeze. This salad is excellent for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a convenient option for busy summer days!

Enjoy this satisfying dish that feels like a vacation with every bite.

Conclusion

With these 15 refreshing summer salads, every meal can feel like a getaway. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet lunch or hosting a garden party, these easy recipes are sure to impress your guests and keep you cool all summer long.

Try them out, and don’t hesitate to mix and match ingredients to suit your taste. Happy summer salad making!

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