Best Summer Salad Recipes Right Now

Summer is the time for salads! In this post, we’re featuring our best summer salad recipes. These recipes are perfect for a light and healthy meal. If you’re looking for a recipe to bring to a potluck or want a new recipe, these refreshing summer salad recipes are sure to please. We can’t wait to hear what you think!

What is the secret to making a good salad?

A healthy salad is more than a bowl of greens. Make a delicious salad with high-quality ingredients in a variety of colors, textures, and flavors. The best salads have a mix of fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables. But don’t stop there!  Include healthy fats, proteins, and whole grains. For a boost of flavor, add a sprinkle of herbs or spices. Don’t forget the dressing! A good rule of thumb is to use half as much dressing as you think you need. Too much dressing can make a salad unhealthy and difficult to digest.  The secret to making a good salad is to use healthy ingredients and dress it lightly.

Best Summer Salad Recipes Right Now

Spring Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Lemon Poppyseed Dressing

Brussel sprouts are a hearty cruciferous vegetable. Shaved thin and seasoned lightly makes it a unique summer salad recipe. Dried cranberries and goat cheese balance it out with a bit of sweet and creaminess.

Ingredients:

• 6 oz brussels sprouts, shaved
• 1 oz dried cranberries
• 1 tbsp almonds, chopped
• 1/2 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp poppy seeds

Directions

1. Combine lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, salt, ground black pepper, olive oil, onion powder, and poppy seeds in a mason jar. Shake well until fully emulsified.
2. Toss the remaining ingredients in a serving bowl.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well.
4. Serve immediately.

Air-Fried Salmon with Citrus Fennel Salad

Fresh lemon and dill make this recipe a refreshing summer salad.  There’s nothing boring about it. Protein packed with salmon and Greek yogurt will keep you satisfied. If you’re new to fennel, give it a try! A hearty, yet light vegetable, pairs nicely with salmon.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz salmon skinless filet
• 1/2 fennel, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup plain almond Greek yogurt
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/2 oz dill, chopped
• 4 tsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Directions

1. Season the salmon filet with salt, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Drizzle the salmon filet with olive oil.
3. Air fry the salmon filet in a preheated air fryer for 10 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Meanwhile, combine thinly sliced fennel, almond Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and chopped dill.
5. Season the fennel salad with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
6. Transfer to a serving plate.
7. Place the roasted salmon onto the serving plate.
8. Serve immediately.

Zucchini Noodle Salad

This vegan salad recipe is full of in season summer vegetables. You’ll enjoy the high fiber content and the array of beautiful colors.  Pair it with a lean protein for an easy dinner idea.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups  snow peas, ends trimmed
• 2 zucchini squash
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced in half
• ½ cup red onions, minced
• 4 oz canned artichoke hearts, drained
• 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Directions

1. Blanch the snow peas for 1 minute in boiling water.
2. Place on iced water to prevent overcooking.
3. Drain and transfer to a large plate to cool completely.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried basil, salt, and ground black pepper. Set aside.
5. Prepare the zucchini by placing it on a spiralizer, cut into noodle-shape, and transfer to a large salad bowl.
6. Toss in the remaining ingredients into the salad bowl together with the prepared snow peas.
7. Sprinkle it with cayenne pepper.
8. Drizzle the salad with the basil-lemon dressing.
9. Mix well until fully incorporated.
10. Check the seasoning and adjust.
11. Serve immediately.

Summer salads are the best way to enjoy the warm weather and fresh produce. But what is the secret to making a good salad? We’ve got you covered with some delicious recipes that will have your taste buds singing.  So get cooking and sign up for 2 weeks free at DishQuo meal planning app.  You’ll gain access to tons of salad recipes and more.  We have 2000+ healthy recipes waiting for you!