35 Mouthwatering Summer Salad Recipes to Savor

Summer is the perfect time to indulge in fresh, vibrant salads that are bursting with flavors and nutrients. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply seeking a refreshing and satisfying meal, these 35 Best Summer Salad Recipes will tantalize your taste buds and keep you cool during the warm months.

1. Crispy Prosciutto, Strawberry, and Burrata Salad with Maple-Balsamic Vinaigrette

This salad is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring juicy strawberries, creamy burrata cheese, and crispy prosciutto. The star of the show is the maple-balsamic vinaigrette, which adds a delightful depth of flavor to the salad. Toss together mixed greens, sliced strawberries, torn burrata, and crispy prosciutto strips. Drizzle the tantalizing vinaigrette over the top and enjoy this refreshing and satisfying salad.

2. Black Bean and Corn Salsa

Packed with vibrant colors and flavors, this black bean and corn salsa is a true crowd-pleaser. Start by combining cooked black beans, fresh corn kernels, diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño (for a kick of heat), and plenty of chopped cilantro. Dress the salsa with a zesty lime vinaigrette and let the flavors meld together. Serve it with tortilla chips for scooping or as a tasty topping for grilled meats or fish.

3. Smashed-Cucumber Salad

This refreshing and crunchy salad is perfect for beating the summer heat. Smash or lightly mash cucumber slices to release their juices, then toss them with thinly sliced red onion, fresh dill, and a tangy dressing made with rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Let the flavors marinate for a few minutes before serving, allowing the cucumbers to absorb the dressing’s zesty notes.

4. Citrus Salad with Spiced Honey

Celebrate the vibrant flavors of summer with this citrus salad that’s bursting with freshness. Combine segments of oranges, grapefruits, and limes in a bowl. Drizzle with a spiced honey dressing made by whisking together honey, olive oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added pop of flavor and aroma.

5. Field Pea and Pasta Salad

This hearty and satisfying salad is a perfect blend of fresh veggies, tender pasta, and a zesty dressing. Cook your favorite short pasta according to package instructions, then toss it with cooked field peas (or substitute with green peas), diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Dress the salad with a tangy vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs like basil or parsley.

6. Snappy Pea-and-Herb Salad

Celebrate the sweetness of fresh peas in this vibrant and crunchy salad. Blanch fresh sweet peas and toss them with thinly sliced radishes, diced cucumber, and a medley of fresh herbs like mint, dill, and parsley. Drizzle with a zingy herb dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of honey for a hint of sweetness.

7. Sesame, Tomato, and Cucumber Salad

This simple yet flavorful salad is a summer staple. Toss together ripe cherry or grape tomatoes, thinly sliced English cucumber, and sliced red onion. Drizzle with a tantalizing sesame dressing made by whisking together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and toasted sesame seeds. Garnish with chopped scallions or fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.

8. Broccoli, Grape, and Pasta Salad

This salad is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Cook your favorite small pasta shape according to package instructions, then toss it with blanched broccoli florets, halved red grapes, and crumbled feta or goat cheese. Dress the salad with a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like dill or parsley.

9. Tomato Cracker Salad

This crunchy salad is a delightful twist on a classic. Start by combining ripe cherry or grape tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled saltine crackers or buttery cracker crumbs. Drizzle with a tangy dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and fresh basil or parsley. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the crackers to soften slightly and absorb the dressing’s flavors.

10. Southern Shrimp Pasta Salad

This satisfying salad is a perfect blend of Southern flavors and fresh ingredients. Cook your favorite small pasta shape according to package instructions, then toss it with cooked and chilled shrimp, diced celery, red onion, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Dress the salad with a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and fresh parsley or dill.

11. Strawberry-Spinach Salad

This classic salad is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Start with a bed of fresh baby spinach, then top it with sliced fresh strawberries, crumbled feta or goat cheese, and toasted sliced almonds or pecans. Drizzle with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette or a poppy seed dressing for a burst of flavor.

12. Summer Pasta Salad with Lime Vinaigrette

This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for hot summer days. Cook your favorite small pasta shape according to package instructions, then toss it with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta or queso fresco. Drizzle with a zesty lime vinaigrette made with olive oil, lime juice, honey, and chopped fresh cilantro.

13. Persian Salad Olivieh (Persian Chicken Salad)

Explore the flavors of Persian cuisine with this delectable chicken salad. Shredded cooked chicken is combined with boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, peas, and pickled vegetables like gherkins or carrots. The salad is dressed with a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing flavored with lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs like dill or parsley.

14. Warm Spinach Salad with Bacon Dressing

This comforting salad is a delightful blend of warm and cool flavors. Start by wilting fresh baby spinach in a hot bacon dressing made with rendered bacon fat, sherry or red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of sugar. Top the wilted spinach with crispy bacon bits, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and crumbled blue cheese or feta for a satisfying and flavor-packed salad.

15. Romaine Salad With Oranges And Radishes

This vibrant salad is a refreshing and nutritious choice. Toss crisp romaine lettuce with juicy orange segments, thinly sliced radishes, and sliced red onion. Drizzle with a tangy citrus vinaigrette made with olive oil, orange juice, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey.

16. Carrot Raisin Salad

This classic salad is a delightful combination of sweet and crunchy flavors. Grate fresh carrots and toss them with plump raisins, chopped pecans or walnuts, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and a touch of sugar or honey. Let the flavors meld together for a few minutes before serving for optimal flavor.

17. Creamy Broccoli Salad

This Creamy Broccoli Salad is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a perfect side dish for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a light and refreshing lunch. The combination of crisp broccoli, salty bacon, tangy dressing, and sweet raisins or cranberries creates a harmonious balance that is sure to please any crowd.

18. Watergate Salad

This retro favorite is a delightfully sweet and creamy treat that’s perfect for summer potlucks and gatherings. Start with a base of pistachio pudding, then fold in crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and whipped cream or Cool Whip. Chill the salad for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together, then garnish with chopped pistachios or maraschino cherries before serving.

19. Avocado Fruit Salad

Celebrate the creaminess of avocados in this refreshing and nutrient-packed salad. Dice ripe avocados and toss them with a medley of fresh fruits like mango, strawberries, blueberries, and citrus segments. Drizzle with a zesty dressing made with lime juice, honey, and a hint of cayenne pepper for a kick of heat. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added burst of flavor.

20. Mexican Watermelon Salad

This salad is a fusion of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for summer cookouts and gatherings. Combine diced watermelon, jicama, cucumber, red onion, and crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese. Drizzle with a tangy lime dressing infused with Mexican flavors like chili powder, cumin, and cilantro. Garnish with crispy tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.

21. Mediterranean Salmon Salad

This nutrient-dense salad is a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal. Grill or pan-sear fresh salmon fillets, then flake the cooked fish over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with a vibrant Mediterranean dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley and oregano.

22. Endive Salad

This sophisticated salad is a perfect balance of bitter and tangy flavors. Arrange crisp endive leaves on a platter, then top them with crumbled blue cheese, sliced pears or apples, toasted walnuts, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette. The endive’s slight bitterness is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the fruit and the richness of the blue cheese.

23. Honeydew Melon and Blackberry Salad

Celebrate the sweetness of summer fruits in this refreshing and vibrant salad. Combine diced honeydew melon with plump blackberries, crumbled feta or goat cheese, and fresh mint leaves. Drizzle with a honey-lime dressing made by whisking together lime juice, honey, and a touch of olive oil. Garnish with toasted sliced almonds or pistachios for added crunch.

24. Watermelon, Blueberry, and Feta Salad

This salad is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and salty flavors. Toss together diced watermelon, fresh blueberries, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion. Drizzle with a simple dressing made with olive oil, lime juice, and a touch of honey. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added burst of freshness.

25. The Detox Crunch Salad

If you’re looking for a nutrient-packed and satisfying salad, this one is for you. Start with a base of mixed greens or shredded kale, then top it with shredded carrots, diced cucumber, sliced radishes, sunflower seeds, and dried cranberries or cherries. Dress the salad with a tangy vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey or maple syrup.

26. Asian Slaw

This crunchy and flavorful slaw is a perfect side dish or light main course. Shred green and red cabbage, carrots, and toss them with sliced scallions and toasted almonds or sesame seeds. Dress the slaw with a tangy Asian-inspired dressing made with rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, grated ginger, and a touch of honey or brown sugar.

27. Family-Style Pesto Chicken Cobb Salad

This hearty salad is perfect for family gatherings and potlucks. Arrange rows of cooked and diced chicken, crumbled bacon, hard-boiled eggs, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and crumbled blue cheese or feta over a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with a creamy pesto dressing made by blending pesto, mayonnaise, and a touch of lemon juice or red wine vinegar.

28. Easy Pasta Salad

This crowd-pleasing pasta salad is a summer staple. Cook your favorite small pasta shape according to package instructions, then toss it with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, diced bell peppers, and crumbled feta or parmesan cheese. Dress the salad with a zesty Italian vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning.

29. Big Beautiful Summer Salad

This stunning salad is a celebration of summer’s bounty. Start with a base of mixed greens or baby spinach, then top it with a variety of fresh produce like diced mango, blueberries, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and crumbled feta or goat cheese. Dress the salad with a tangy vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs like basil or dill.

30. Summer Quinoa Salad

This nutrient-packed salad is a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal. Cook quinoa according to package instructions, then toss it with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and crumbled feta or goat cheese. Dress the salad with a tangy vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs like parsley or mint.

31. Easy 7 Layer Salad

This classic salad is a crowd-pleaser and a potluck staple. In a large glass bowl or dish, layer the following ingredients: mixed greens or iceberg lettuce, peas, diced tomatoes, sliced hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and a touch of sugar or honey. Refrigerate the salad for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

32. The Best Easy Italian Pasta Salad

This flavorful pasta salad is a perfect choice for summer picnics and gatherings. Cook your favorite small pasta shape according to package instructions, then toss it with diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, diced mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Dress the salad with a zesty Italian vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and Italian seasoning.

33. Harissa Chicken and Couscous Salad

Spice up your summer with this flavorful salad. Marinate chicken breasts in a harissa paste (a North African spice blend), then grill or pan-sear the chicken until cooked through. Fluff cooked couscous with a fork, then toss it with the diced chicken, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Dress the salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a yogurt-based harissa dressing.

34. 15 Minute Chicken Taco Salad

This quick and easy salad is perfect for busy weeknights. Start with a base of shredded lettuce or mixed greens, then top it with diced cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, shredded cheddar cheese, and crushed tortilla chips. Dress the salad with a zesty taco-inspired dressing made with lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and cilantro.

35. Creamy Avocado and Citrus Salad

Celebrate the creaminess of avocados in this refreshing and vibrant salad. Dice ripe avocados and toss them with segments of oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits of your choice. Add thinly sliced red onion and fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. Drizzle the salad with a creamy dressing made by blending together Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, and a touch of olive oil. The tangy citrus flavors perfectly complement the richness of the avocado, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

To enhance the presentation, consider serving the salad in a hollowed-out avocado or citrus fruit half. Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds for added crunch. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients from the avocado, citrus fruits, and yogurt-based dressing.

Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing starter or a satisfying main course, this Creamy Avocado and Citrus Salad is sure to d