15 + Summer Salad Recipes

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Looking for delicious summer salad recipes? Discover 15+ refreshing and easy summer salad recipes made with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, summer produce, and vibrant dressings. Perfect for hot days, BBQs, or light lunches.

Summer is all about sunshine, slowing down, and making the most of every bite—especially when fresh produce is at its peak. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a casual cookout, or just need something cool and satisfying on a hot summer day, there’s nothing better than a juicy summer salad to brighten your plate.

From light lunches to colorful side dishes and even a few that double as a main course, these delicious summer salads are your passport to easy, vibrant meals. Think crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, sweet corn, and fruit so good it tastes like sunshine—this lineup is your seasonal go-to for the best way to eat well and feel amazing.

As a chef and nutrition consultant I always encourage eating with the seasons—and summer is the salad season in full swing. This is the best time to take advantage of in-season produce from your local farmers market, like juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant fresh herbs. Whether you’re whipping up a light lunch or need the perfect side dish for a summertime get-together, these colorful and flavorful salad recipes are your go-to guide to vibrant, healthy eating on hot days. So grab your leafy greens and olive oil—we’re about to dive into a bowl of sunshine.

15+ Summer Salad Recipes

1. Authentic German Potato Salad

This classic potato salad is served warm and tossed with red onion, fresh dill, and a tangy vinaigrette instead of mayo. It’s a delicious salad that pairs perfectly with grilled sausages or as a hearty side dish for a summer BBQ.

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2. No Mayo Coleslaw

This light salad uses a bright vinegar-based dressing instead of creamy mayo, making it refreshing and crunchy. Bell peppers, crisp cabbage, and a splash of lemon juice bring the whole thing to life.

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3. Polish Sauerkraut Salad

A zingy twist on traditional slaw, this salad is brimming with probiotic-rich sauerkraut, carrots, and red onion. It’s a flavorful salad recipe that cuts through richer dishes and supports gut health on hot days.

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4. Summer Detox Salad

Packed with in-season produce like kale, cucumber, and avocado, this salad is all about clean, fresh ingredients. A squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of sesame seeds make this the best way to feel light and energized.

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5. Summer Fruits Salad

Think favorite fruits like watermelon, strawberries, and citrus slices tossed with fresh mint and lime juice. This fruit salad is a sweet, hydrating way to cool down and makes a perfect side for brunch or dessert for dinner.

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6. Polish Tomato and Pickle Salad

Juicy tomatoes and crunchy pickles are dressed with olive oil, fresh dill, and a little red onion in this quirky Polish side. It’s a punchy, savory fruit salad that’s ready in minutes and full of bold flavor.

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7. Cucumber and Radish Salad

This crispy veggie combo is tossed with fresh herbs, lemon juice, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It’s one of those simple green salads that never goes out of style.

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8. Citrus Kale Salad

Hearty greens like kale are massaged with a lemon vinaigrette and studded with citrus segments and kalamata olives. It’s a zippy kale salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner salad.

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9. Grilled Nopales Salad

Grilled cactus paddles bring a smoky, tangy twist to this Mexican salad, paired with red pepper and avocado. It’s a unique side salad that’s packed with nutrients and unexpected flavor.

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10. Grilled Peach Burrata Salad

Ripe peaches meet creamy burrata, fresh basil, and arugula salad greens in this dreamy peach salad. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of flaky salt make it pure summer magic.

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11. Healthy Broccoli Salad

This fresh take on broccoli salad skips the heavy mayo for a lemony olive oil dressing, crisp veggies, and a handful of sunflower seeds. It’s a crunchy, satisfying side dish that travels well for picnics or potlucks.

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12. Quinoa Salad

Protein-packed quinoa is tossed with bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and fresh herbs in this easy summer salad. It’s a hearty salad that can double as a main dish or a side.

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13. Kohlrabi Salad

Crunchy and refreshing, kohlrabi gets shredded and mixed with creamy avocado dressing and lemon juice. It’s the perfect salad for those hot summer days when you want something light and hydrating.

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14. Roasted Beets and Fennel Salad

Earthy roasted beets meet the licorice snap of fennel and creamy goat cheese for a salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. A little red wine vinegar and olive oil tie it all together.

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15. Raw Carrot Salad

Shredded carrots, green peppers, and fresh mint combine in this zesty, colorful salad. It’s sweet, tangy, and makes a refreshing light salad for a hot day.

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16. Pomegranate Kale Salad

Juicy pomegranate seeds, hearty kale, feta cheese, and toasted sesame seeds bring serious texture and flavor. This kale salad is vibrant, antioxidant-rich, and great for summertime get-togethers.

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17. Mizeria (Polish Cucumber Salad)

Cool cucumbers, sour cream, and fresh dill are a nostalgic combo in this classic Polish side. It’s creamy, simple, and pairs well with grilled meats and potatoes.

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18. Mexican Jicama Mango Salad

Crispy jicama and sweet mango are tossed with lime juice, chili powder, and cilantro for a refreshing Mexican salad. It’s a juicy summer salad with the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tart.

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19. Summer Salad with Roasted Strawberry Dressing

This salad takes summer produce to the next level with a roasted strawberry and balsamic dressing over leafy greens and goat cheese. It’s a sweet and savory explosion perfect for a summer dinner with a glass of wine.

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These delicious summer salads are more than just side dishes—they’re full-on flavor experiences. Whether you’re enjoying a light lunch, hosting a summer BBQ, or looking for the best way to celebrate the season’s bounty, you’re in the right place. From juicy tomatoes to sweet corn, and feta cheese to fresh herbs, these summery salads are your go-to recipes all summer long.

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