This post features delightful summer salad recipes and ideas, perfect for dinners and refreshing cold meals. 

Almost 40% of Americans say that they eat salads in their daily routine. 

Indeed, salads are a refreshing treat and a great way to boost nutrients into your diet, but let’s be honest, sometimes the usual ones can be a bit boring, right?. 

So, I thought, why not shake things up and make a list of some easy and nice summer salad recipes for you all.

22 Best Summer Salad Recipes To Try

To make things easier and more approachable, I have divided the list into sections.

These include some vegetarian options, chicken, seafood, and even some with refreshing fruits. 

So, choose whatever suits your preference and enjoy making summer salad recipes.

Vegetarian  

1. Simple Green Salad 

This first recipe on the list is as simple as it sounds. 

Just slice up some creamy avocados and crunchy cucumbers, then toss them with sea salt, almonds, and pumpkin seeds. 

This recipe has added parmesan cheese for an extra kick, but you can switch to Greek Yogurt or skip it altogether. 

In the end, drizzle some lemon dressing and enjoy. 

• Key Ingredients: Lettuce, Cucumber, Avocados, Pumpkin seeds, Almonds, Parmesan Cheese (optional)
• Additional Benefits: Low-Carb, Diabetes-Friendly, Heart-Healthy, Gluten-Free
• Prep Time: 15 minutes

2. Mexican Street Corn Salad 

This Mexican street corn salad has all the right ingredients to make it spicy and tasty, like bell peppers, jalapeños, onions, and spices. 

So, if you are a spice lover, then this salad is a must-try!

Plus, it keeps well in the fridge for up to five days, making it perfect for meal prep.

• Key Ingredients: Corn, Avocado oil, Bell peppers, Onion, Jalapeño, Greek Yogurt, Lime, Spices
• Additional Benefits: Soy-Free, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
• Prep Time: 30 minutes

3. Cherry Tomato Couscous Salad 

This is another excellent recipe that features roasted cherry tomatoes and cucumbers as its main ingredients. 

You can easily roast the tomatoes ahead of time to save time and for quicker assembly. 

• Key Ingredients: Cherry tomatoes, Couscous, Chickpeas, Olive oil, Herbs, Lemon, Cucumbers
• Additional Benefits: High-Fiber, Heart-Healthy, Diabetes-Friendly, Nut-Free
• Prep Time: 30 minutes

4. Sweet Chilli Crispy Rice Salad 

This summer salad recipe is especially for crisp lovers. 

It’s because it has crispy brown rice added, which you can easily air-fry to achieve that crunch, along with other crunchy veggies. 

The recipe mentions Peanut butter to make it flavorful, but I suggest choosing almond or cashew butter instead. 

• Key Ingredients: Brown Rice, Cabbage, Cucumbers, Carrots, Edamame, Herbs, Thai Sweet Chilli Sauce, Almond Butter.
• Additional Benefits: Gut-Healthy, Mediterranean Diet, High-Fiber
• Prep Time: 30 minutes

5. Parisian Potato Salad 

Yes, there are some salads that have potatoes in them! 

In this recipe, however, we’ve taken the mayo-based version and spun it into a healthier Greek Yogurt version with lots of fresh herbs. 

And the addition of pickled cucumbers takes the flavor to the next level.

Enjoy this tasty twist!

• Key Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Celery Sticks, Mustard Powder, Pickled Cucumbers
• Additional Benefits: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Low-Calorie
• Prep Time: 45 minutes

Egg

6. Classic Cobb Mason Jar Salad 

This Cobb Mason jar summer salad recipe is a perfect choice as a grab-and-go lunch or office meal. 

Simply layer all the ingredients, except for the meat and egg, into a jar and let it chill in the fridge. 

In the morning, just boil the egg and chop the meat, and you are all set for a delicious meal at work. 

• Key Ingredients: Cucumber, Tomato, Onion, Boiled Egg, Turkey Slices, Bacon, Avocado, Lime Juice,  Low-Fat Mayonnaise, Low-Fat Milk, Tarragon Vinegar, Dijon Mustard
• Additional Benefits: High-Protein, Gluten-Free, Low-Calorie
• Prep Time: 30 minutes

7. Low-Calorie Egg Salad  

All we imagine about egg salad is that it is loaded with mayonnaise. 

But here, this healthy egg salad recipe has used Greek Yogurt instead.

This recipe has two variations, so opt for the healthier one.  

All the other ingredients are also quite simple, and you can mix up this salad in no time. 

• Key Ingredients: Hard-Boiled Eggs, Greek Yogurt, Chives, Green Onion, Dijon Mustard, Dill Pickle, Pepper
• Additional Benefits: Low-Calorie, Healthy Protein
• Prep Time: 25 minutes

8. Healthy Egg Salad, Mediterranean-Style 

If you are looking for a Mediterranean-style egg salad recipe, then this is the recipe you should try. 

Just boil the eggs ahead of time (almost a day earlier) to get the perfect texture and temperature.

Also, feel free to swap eggs with any kind of meat you like.
The recipe tastes good anyway. 

• Key Ingredients: Hard-boiled Eggs, Onion, Avocados, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Aleppo Pepper, Parsley, Mint, Olive oil, 
• Additional Benefits: Mediterranean, Gluten-Free, Low-Carb
• Prep Time: 25 minutes

Chicken

9. High-Protein Grilled Chicken Salad 

Grilled chicken is a great way to enjoy a tasty and easy-to-make salad that requires minimal meal prep. 

You can vary the recipe with whatever vegetables you like, but this recipe I shared features baby spinach, making it even healthier. 

• Key Ingredients: Zucchini, Lettuce, Boneless Chicken, Baby Spinach, Tomatoes, Olive Oil, Bell Peppers, Garlic, Onion
• Additional Benefits: Diabetes-Friendly, High-Protein, Gluten-Free
• Prep Time: 45 minutes

10. Rosemary Chicken, Corn and Peach Summer Salad

This rosemary chicken summer salad is another great salad recipe to add to the list. 

This delightful recipe combines sweet corn and creamy avocados, all topped with fresh herbs for an aromatic touch. 

Trust me, you won’t be disappointed when you try this one! 

• Key Ingredients: Boneless Chicken, Fresh Rosemary, Peach, Corn, Olive Oil, Fresh Basil, Avocado, Vinegar, Honey 
• Additional Benefits: Diabetes-Friendly, Nut-Free, Dairy-Free, High-Protein, Gluten-Free
• Prep Time: 35 minutes

11. Chicken Caesar Salad 

Are you ready to enjoy the classic Caesar salad in a healthy way?

Then try this recipe for chicken Caesar salad with Greek Yogurt instead of Parmesan cheese. 

You will get all the delicious flavor without compromising your health.

Perfect as a side or a light meal, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser!

• Key Ingredients: Chicken, Greek Yogurt, Romaine Lettuce, Mustard sauce, Olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, Lemon Juice
• Additional Benefits: High-Protein, High-Fiber
• Prep Time: 40 minutes

12. Chicken Tzatziki Avocado Salad 

This is another must-try chicken salad for your summer recipes!

In this, the chicken is seasoned with a mix of different spices and roasted until charred and delicious. 

Toss it with fresh greens, creamy avocado, and a zesty lemon dressing and tzatziki sauce.

Healthy and filling enough to call it a meal!

• Key Ingredients: Chicken, Paprika Powder, Kale, Avocado, Cucumbers, Honey, Tzatziki sauce, Tahini, Sesame seeds
• Additional Benefits: Soy-Free, High-Protein, Gluten-Free
• Prep Time: 45 minutes

Salami

13. Italian Chopped Salad 

Who would say no to a creamy salad containing crunchy veggies, salty salami, and beans? 

This next summer salad recipe has all the ingredients for a refreshing boost to your meals.

Just chop it all up, toss it together, and voilà, dinner is served!

• Key Ingredients: Cucumbers, Lettuce, Salami Fish, Garbanzo Beans, Tomatoes, Olives, Olive Oil, Seasonings,
• Additional Benefits: High-Fiber, Gluten-Free
• Prep Time: 10 minutes

Seafood 

14. Shrimp Avocado Salad 

Shrimp is super healthy, and making a salad out of it seems like a great idea to me. 

That is why I added a recipe to my list. 

This recipe tastes crazily good and is loaded with the freshest ingredients possible. 

So, if you love shrimp, you definitely need to give it a try!

• Key Ingredients: Shrimps, Cherry Tomatoes, Onions, Cilantro, Lime Juice, Olive Oil, Pepper
• Additional Benefits: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, High-Protein
• Prep Time: 15 minutes

15. Tuna & White Bean Salad 

Tuna is a great addition to sandwiches and complements salad recipes well. 

The recipe I’ve added to the list is simple, light, and full of flavor. 

The best part? You can enjoy it on its own or with whole wheat pita bread for a satisfying meal!

• Key Ingredients: White Kidney Beans, Tuna, Onion, Parsley, Basil, Salt, Pepper
• Additional Benefits: Gut Healthy, Anti-Inflammatory, High-Fiber, High-Protein, Low-Calorie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes

Pasta 

16. Easy Pasta Salad 

Pasta salads are the ultimate comfort food and make great picnic fare. 

Here, the recipe uses the fusilli pasta, but it is better to go for whole wheat pasta as a healthier alternative. 

Also, it is better to boil it for a longer time and let it cool completely. 

• Key Ingredients: Whole Wheat Pasta, Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Chickpeas, Arugula, Cottage Cheese, Parsley, Mint Leaves
• Additional Benefits: Nut-Free, Soy-Free
• Prep Time: 30 minutes

17. Ramen Noodle Salad 

This salad is crisp, tasty, and bursting with flavor! 

Start by toasting ramen noodles in a bit of oil with cashews and sesame seeds. 

Then, whisk together the other ingredients and slice the orange.

IF you wish to make it a cold dinner, then you can add shredded rotisserie chicken. 

Or, keep it vegetarian with some edamame or tofu.

• Key Ingredients: Whole-Wheat Ramen Noodles, Cashews, Sesame Seeds, Orange Slices, Vinegar, Olive Oil, Seasonings, Garlic, Ginger
• Additional Benefits: Healthy Immunity, High-Protein, Low-Calorie
• Prep Time: 25 minutes

18. Walnut Pesto Pasta Salad 

We have enjoyed pesto in pasta, but this recipe brings a twist by using it in salads. 

You just have to boil the pasta ahead and let it cool. 

Then grind the rest of the ingredients except the veggies. 

Toss the pasta with veggies and sauce, then enjoy!

• Key Ingredients: Whole-Wheat Penne, Fresh Basil, Red Pepper, Tomato, Parsley, Walnuts, Lemon, Garlic, Pepper, Cottage Cheese. 
• Additional Benefits: High-Fiber, Vegetarian, Mediterranean Diet
• Prep Time: 30 minutes

Fruity

19. Thai Green Papaya Salad 

This Thai green papaya salad can be considered a staple in Thailand.
And they make many versions of it, but I have added the authentic one here. 

You can serve it with sticky rice as they do in Thailand, but it can also be enjoyed on its own. 

• Key Ingredients: Green Papaya, Garlic, Chillies, Honey, Long Beans, Peanuts, Shrimps, Fish Sauce, Tamarind paste
• Additional Benefits: Low-Carb, Low-Fat, Gluten-Free, Low-Calorie
• Prep Time: 35 minutes

20. Watermelon Salad with Feta, Cucumber, and Mint 

Watermelons are the essence of summer and there has to be a summer salad recipe with it too. 

Every bite of this salad is filled with sweet and salty flavors.

But the recipe uses feta cheese, remember to use cottage cheese instead for a heathier alternative.

So, if you’ve never tried a salad with watermelon, this is your sign!

• Key Ingredients: Watermelon, Cucumber, Mint and Basil Leaves, Lemon, Cottage Cheese, Honey, Mint
• Additional Benefits: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
• Prep Time: 15 minutes

21. Pear Salad with Balsamic and Walnuts 

Pears have a deliciously crunchy taste, and when paired with fresh greens, they create the perfect salad for summer afternoons. 

Not only this, but the addition of crunchy nuts adds the best source of healthy fats you need. 

Pro Tip: Roast the fennel before tossing it into the salad—it enhances the flavor beautifully!

• Key Ingredients: Pears, Greens, Fennel, Cranberries, Nuts (hazelnuts, walnuts, and pecans), Balsamic Vinegar
• Additional Benefits: Low-Carb, High-Fiber
• Prep Time: 15 minutes

22. Blueberry Cucumber Summer Salad with Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette 

Blueberries are the ultimate love, and this recipe makes the best use of them in salads. 

Pairing it with almonds, cucumbers, and balsamic dressing gives a perfect balance of sweetness, savoury, and crunchiness to this salad. 

It’s a must-try for any salad lover. 

• Key Ingredients: Blueberries, Baby Spinach, Cucumbers, Seasonings, Cottage Cheese, Almonds, Balsamic Vinegar
• Additional Benefits: Anti-Inflammatory, Mediterranean Diet, Gluten-Free, Vegan
• Prep Time: 30 minutes

That’s All For the Best Summer Salad Recipes 

This is it for this post about the summer salad recipes.

I have tried my best to choose the healthiest salads, but if you wish to swap, add, or subtract any ingredient, you are free to do so. 

And if you try any of these recipes, be sure to leave a comment in the section down below.

I love to hear from you guys, too! 

You May Also Like: 

• 24 Healthy Dessert Recipes: Easy Ideas That Taste So Good
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References

1.  McNamara, Haley. “Americans Eat a Lot More Salad Than You’d Think.” Yahoo Life, 26 Feb. 2025, www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/americans-eat-lot-more-salad-135532584.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAGsHyySqgdXfNBWghK08hYFHUC40gJw_ldRQzsVyxrhb736JARpoYngdFN1eBgHFYF4BjTnMp2qhI-56EjIHq7_WVf_QKqbj-MmIB6wGSntMWif4jVkNAIkLOsjN4l-0jie3dU3cVEzYjNqJrSpcc2WB_8wHOI_hEzkDx-RrQPFl.
2. Nutrivore. “Shrimp Nutrients.” Nutrivore, 5 Dec. 2023, nutrivore.com/foods/shrimp-nutrients.