20 Summer Salad Recipes That Will Make You Forget It’s Hot Outside

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I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy fresh, cool salads. These dishes are easy to make and great for picnics, cookouts, or light dinners. Summer salads can be a mix of juicy fruits, crisp veggies, and tasty dressings that will keep you feeling refreshed.

You’ll love trying new combos like watermelon with feta, or classic favorites like caprese salad. These recipes use the best seasonal produce to create colorful, flavorful meals. Get ready to discover your new favorite summer salad!

Greek Salad

Here’s what you’ll need for a tasty Greek salad:

  • 4 ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup kalamata olives
  • 200g feta cheese, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s make your Greek salad:

  1. Chop all your veggies and place them in a large bowl.

  2. Add the olives and feta cheese to the bowl.

  3. In a small jar, mix the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.

  4. Pour the dressing over your salad and gently toss everything together.

  5. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors mingle.

That’s it! Your Greek salad is ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your summer BBQ.

Caprese Salad

You’ll love this simple yet tasty summer salad! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 4 ripe tomatoes
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella
  • 1 bunch fresh basil
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into 1/4 inch thick rounds.

  2. Arrange the slices on a plate, alternating tomato and mozzarella.

  3. Tuck fresh basil leaves between the slices.

  4. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad.

  5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

  6. Serve right away and enjoy your refreshing Caprese salad!

This easy recipe takes just 10 minutes to make. It’s perfect for hot summer days when you want something light and delicious.

Cobb Salad

You’ll love this refreshing summer Cobb salad! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • Romaine lettuce
  • Grilled chicken breast
  • Bacon strips
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Avocado
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Blue cheese crumbles
  • Red onion
  • Your favorite dressing

Directions:

  1. Chop the lettuce and place it in a large bowl.

  2. Grill the chicken and slice it into strips. Cook the bacon until crispy.

  3. Arrange the chicken, crumbled bacon, sliced eggs, diced avocado, halved tomatoes, and blue cheese on top of the lettuce.

  4. Sprinkle some diced red onion for extra flavor.

  5. Drizzle your dressing over the salad just before serving.

This colorful salad is perfect for hot summer days. It’s packed with protein and veggies, making it a complete meal. You can prep the ingredients ahead of time for quick assembly when you’re ready to eat.

Feel free to customize your Cobb salad with your favorite toppings. Try adding corn, cucumber, or nuts for extra crunch. Enjoy your delicious and satisfying summer Cobb salad!

Caesar Salad

You’ll love this refreshing Caesar salad on a hot summer day! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 large head romaine lettuce
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup croutons

Directions:

  1. Wash and chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

  3. Place the lettuce in a large bowl and pour the dressing over it. Toss well to coat all the leaves.

  4. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and croutons on top.

  5. Serve right away and enjoy your crisp, tangy Caesar salad!

For a fun summer twist, try grilling the romaine lettuce before adding the toppings. It adds a smoky flavor that’s perfect for outdoor dining.

Pasta Salad

Want to make a tasty pasta salad? Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 16 oz rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the dressing:

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
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Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.

  2. In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and olives.

  3. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl.

  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat.

  5. Add feta cheese and basil. Stir lightly to combine.

  6. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

You can customize this salad by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light summer meal!

Potato Salad

Ready to make a tasty potato salad for your summer cookout? Here’s a simple recipe you’ll love!

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs red potatoes, cubed
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, minced
  • 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill for garnish

Directions:

  1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool.

  2. In a large bowl, mix the cooled potatoes, eggs, celery, onion, and pickles.

  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, and vinegar.

  4. Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and gently stir to combine.

  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  6. Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.

  7. Garnish with fresh dill and enjoy your delicious potato salad!

This easy recipe is perfect for your next barbecue or picnic. You can make it ahead of time, letting the flavors meld together for an even tastier salad.

Watermelon Feta Salad

You’ll love this refreshing summer salad! Here’s what you need:

  • 4 cups cubed watermelon
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt to taste

Now for the easy steps:

  1. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt.

  2. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon, cucumber, and red onion.

  3. Pour the dressing over the fruit and veggies. Toss gently to coat everything.

  4. Sprinkle the feta cheese and mint leaves on top.

  5. Give it one more light toss and you’re done!

Chill your salad for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors blend together. Enjoy your cool, tasty treat on a hot summer day!

Coleslaw

Get ready to whip up a refreshing summer coleslaw! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1/4 cup diced onion
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, mix the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and diced onion.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.

  3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until everything is well coated.

  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

  5. Give it a quick stir before dishing it up. Enjoy your cool, crunchy coleslaw!

This easy recipe is perfect for summer BBQs and picnics. You can add extras like sliced apples or raisins for a twist. Make it your own!

Nicoise Salad

Ready to make a tasty Nicoise salad? Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 4 eggs
  • Green beans
  • Potatoes
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Tuna (canned or fresh)
  • Olives
  • Red onion
  • Capers
  • Lettuce
  • Anchovy fillets (optional)

For the dressing:

  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice
  • Dijon mustard
  • Garlic
  • Salt and pepper

Now let’s put it together!

  1. Boil the eggs until hard-boiled. Cool and peel them.

  2. Cook the green beans until bright green and tender. Drain and cool.

  3. Boil the potatoes until fork-tender. Let them cool, then cut into chunks.

  4. Make the dressing by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

  5. On a large platter, arrange the lettuce as a base.

  6. Add piles of green beans, potatoes, halved tomatoes, tuna, and quartered eggs.

  7. Sprinkle olives, sliced red onion, and capers over the salad.

  8. Drizzle the dressing over everything.

  9. If you like, add some anchovy fillets on top.

Your Nicoise salad is ready to enjoy! It’s perfect for a summer meal.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

You’ll love this refreshing summer salad! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cucumbers, sliced
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (basil or dill work great)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Mix the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion in a large bowl.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, herbs, salt, and pepper.

  3. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything.

  4. Pop the bowl in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the flavors blend together.

  5. Give it a quick stir before you dish it up. Enjoy your cool, crisp salad!

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This easy recipe is perfect for hot days. You can make it ahead of time too – it tastes even better the next day!

Waldorf Salad

Ready to make a tasty Waldorf salad? Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 apples, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 cup red grapes, halved
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Mix the mayonnaise, yogurt, lemon juice, and honey in a big bowl.

  2. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the dressing. Give it a taste and adjust if needed.

  3. Toss in the diced apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts. Stir gently to coat everything with the dressing.

  4. Pop the bowl in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle.

  5. Give it one last stir before serving. You can scoop it onto lettuce leaves if you like.

Enjoy your cool, crunchy Waldorf salad! It’s perfect for a hot summer day.

Chicken Salad

You’ll love this refreshing chicken salad for hot summer days! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
  • 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts

Directions:

  1. Mix the chicken, celery, and onion in a large bowl.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo and lemon juice.

  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir to coat evenly.

  4. Gently fold in the cherries and nuts (if using).

  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Serve your chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers. It’s a tasty and easy meal for those warm summer evenings!

Tuna Salad

Ready to make a tasty tuna salad? Grab these ingredients:

  • 2 cans of tuna, drained
  • 1/4 cup mayo
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 1/4 red onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s put it together:

  1. Open and drain the tuna cans. Put the tuna in a bowl.

  2. Add the mayo, celery, and red onion to the bowl.

  3. Squeeze in the lemon juice.

  4. Mix everything well with a fork.

  5. Taste and add salt and pepper as you like.

  6. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Your tuna salad is ready! Enjoy it on bread, crackers, or a bed of lettuce. You can also add extras like chopped pickles or fresh herbs if you want to mix things up.

This easy recipe takes just 10 minutes to make. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner on hot summer days.

Fruit Salad

Here’s a delicious fruit salad recipe perfect for summer! You’ll need:

• 2 cups strawberries, sliced
• 1 cup blueberries
• 1 cup raspberries
• 2 peaches, diced
• 1 cup cherries, pitted and halved
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

For the dressing:
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
• Pinch of salt

To make the salad, gently toss all the fruit together in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk the dressing ingredients. Pour over the fruit and lightly toss to coat.

Sprinkle the chopped herbs on top. Your colorful summer fruit salad is ready to serve! It’s best enjoyed right away while the fruit is fresh and crisp.

Spinach Strawberry Salad

Ready to make a tasty summer salad? This spinach strawberry salad is perfect for you! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 6 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 2 cups sliced strawberries
  • 1/2 cup sliced red onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Wash and dry the spinach leaves. Place them in a large bowl.

  2. Add the sliced strawberries and red onion to the spinach.

  3. Toast the pecans in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Let them cool, then add to the bowl.

  4. Sprinkle the feta cheese over the salad.

  5. In a small jar, mix all the dressing ingredients. Shake well to combine.

  6. Just before serving, pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.

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Your spinach strawberry salad is now ready to enjoy! It’s a refreshing mix of sweet and savory flavors that’s perfect for warm summer days.

Broccoli Salad

You’ll love this easy broccoli salad! It’s perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits
  • 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar

Directions:

  1. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.

  2. Add the diced red onion, bacon bits, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries to the bowl.

  3. In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar to make the dressing.

  4. Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture and toss until everything is well coated.

  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Your broccoli salad is now ready to enjoy! The crunchy broccoli, salty bacon, and sweet cranberries create a delicious mix of flavors and textures. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite at your summer get-togethers.

Quinoa Salad

Ready to make a tasty quinoa salad? Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s get cooking!

  1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer.

  2. Bring water to a boil in a pot. Add quinoa, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes.

  3. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

  4. While the quinoa cools, chop your veggies and mix the dressing.

  5. In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, parsley, and chickpeas.

  6. Pour the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Toss gently.

  7. Add salt and pepper to taste.

  8. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Your quinoa salad is ready! It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at your next barbecue.

Chickpea Salad

You’ll love this refreshing chickpea salad on a hot summer day! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Mix chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, feta, and parsley in a large bowl.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

  4. Chill for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

  5. Give it a quick stir and enjoy your delicious chickpea salad!

This easy recipe is perfect for picnics or as a light lunch. You can add other veggies or herbs you like to make it your own.

Thai Mango Salad

You’ll love this refreshing Thai mango salad! It’s perfect for hot summer days.

Ingredients:

  • 2 green mangoes, shredded
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 red chili, finely chopped (optional)

Directions:

  1. Mix the shredded mango, red onion, and cilantro in a large bowl.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar to make the dressing.

  3. Pour the dressing over the mango mixture and toss well to combine.

  4. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top.

  5. If you like it spicy, add some chopped red chili.

  6. Serve your Thai mango salad right away and enjoy its crisp, tangy flavor!

This salad is super easy to make and takes only about 15 minutes. It’s a great way to use green mangoes. The mix of sweet, sour, and salty tastes will wow your taste buds!

Corn And Black Bean Salad

Get ready for a tasty summer treat! This corn and black bean salad is perfect for hot days. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 avocado, cubed
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 limes, juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Mix corn, black beans, bell pepper, and onion in a large bowl.

  2. Add avocado and cilantro, gently tossing to combine.

  3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.

  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well.

  5. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

  6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

You can make this salad ahead of time. It tastes even better after the flavors mingle! Enjoy your colorful and refreshing corn and black bean salad.