Last time, we helped you mix the perfect summer drink. Now, it’s time for the perfect pairing! When the temperature rises, nothing satisfies quite like a fresh, flavourful salad. But forget the sad, boring side salads of the past. We’re talking about bold, satisfying creations that can be the star of your BBQ, a perfect light lunch, or an elegant start to an evening meal.
We’ve handpicked 10 of our most refreshing and exciting summer salads from the app to prove that a salad is one of the best ways to celebrate the season.
Remember – don’t let your food allergies get in the way of a good time! Using our free app, you can call upon your very own Personal Recipe Assistant to help you swap out ingredients you can’t have, for those that you can.
10 Vibrant Summer Salads to Make All Season Long
Watermelon and Feta Salad with Red Onion, Mint and Lime
This is the quintessential summer salad. The combination of sweet, juicy watermelon, salty feta, and cooling mint is an iconic trio for a reason. It’s effortlessly elegant and takes only minutes to assemble.
Grilled Peach and Halloumi Salad
Take your salad to the grill! The heat caramelizes the peaches, bringing out their natural sweetness, while the salty halloumi gets a perfect, smoky char. It’s a sophisticated salad that tastes like pure sunshine.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
All the zesty, creamy, and spicy flavors of elote (Mexican street corn), but in an easy-to-eat salad form. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic side for any cookout.
Tomato Burrata Salad
An incredibly simple yet luxurious salad. The star is the burrata—a fresh mozzarella ball with a creamy center that pairs beautifully with ripe, sweet summer tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of good olive oil.
Panzanella (Italian Bread Salad)
Don’t throw out that day-old crusty bread! This rustic Tuscan salad is the perfect way to use it. The bread soaks up the juices from fresh tomatoes and a tangy vinaigrette, creating a dish that is both hearty and refreshing.
Thai Quinoa Salad with Black Rice
For when you want a salad with a bit more substance and a huge punch of flavor. This one is packed with interesting textures and a zesty, nutty dressing that’s incredibly addictive.
BLT Pasta Salad
A beloved sandwich classic, reimagined for a crowd. With crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy dressing, this is the ultimate potluck or BBQ side dish that everyone will love.
Avocado Fruit Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
A delightful and unexpected combination. Creamy avocado provides a beautiful contrast to sweet berries and melon, all tied together with a bright, citrusy orange vinaigrette.
Grilled Corn, Avocado, and Tomato Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
This salad is a celebration of peak-season produce. Smoky grilled corn, creamy avocado, and sweet cherry tomatoes are tossed in a simple honey-lime dressing that makes the flavours pop.
Smashed Chickpea Avocado Salad
A fantastic vegetarian option that’s as versatile as it is delicious. It has the satisfying texture of a tuna or chicken salad but is made with chickpeas and creamy avocado. Serve it on its own, in a lettuce wrap, or as a sandwich.
This summer, it’s time to move the salad from the side dish to the center of the plate. With these fresh, vibrant, and flavour-packed ideas, you’re ready to create stunning meals that celebrate the best of the season.
Want more summer salad ideas? Check out more in our Recipes area.