10 Summer Vegetable Salads Without Lettuce

When you think of summer salads, what’s the first one that pops into your mind? Maybe a classic lettuce-based mix or a heavy potato salad, right? Or maybe one of my favorites—the cool and colorful Mediterranean bowl.

While these salads are great, I honestly think vegetable salads without lettuce are some of the freshest, crunchiest, and most flavor-packed dishes of summer—and they’re often overlooked.

Some of my favorites feature grilled corn, creamy avocado, crisp cucumbers, or juicy tomatoes—like this Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad, this Watermelon Feta Mint Bowl, or even this Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing. Let’s dig in!

1. Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad: 

Combine juicy diced tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano for a taste of the Mediterranean. The vibrant flavors and textures make this a light yet satisfying salad perfect for a warm day. Read the full recipe

2. Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad: 

Sweet grilled corn kernels mingle with creamy diced avocado, chopped red bell pepper, and cilantro. A lime vinaigrette with a hint of chili powder adds a zesty kick. Grilling the corn enhances its sweetness and provides a lovely smoky flavor that complements the richness of the avocado.Read the full recipe

3. Caprese Salad Skewers: 

Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers for a fun and easy-to-eat salad. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving. This classic Italian combination is simple, elegant, and bursting with fresh flavors, making it an ideal appetizer or light snack.Read the full recipe

4. Broccoli and Raisin Salad: 

Tender raw broccoli florets are tossed with sweet raisins, crunchy sunflower seeds, and finely chopped red onion in a creamy, slightly tangy dressing made with mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar. This salad offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.Read the full recipe 

5. Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing: 

Shredded cabbage (red and green), carrots, and edamame are tossed in a vibrant peanut dressing made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, and a touch of sesame oil. Top with chopped peanuts and cilantro for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. Read the full recipe 

6. Watermelon and Feta Salad with Mint: 

Cubes of refreshing watermelon are paired with salty feta cheese, fresh mint leaves, and thinly sliced red onion. A light drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lime juice bring all the flavors together. The sweet and savory combination is incredibly refreshing on a hot summer day. Read the full recipe 

7. Bell Pepper and Black Bean Salad: 

Diced bell peppers (various colors), black beans, corn kernels, and red onion are tossed with a zesty lime-cilantro dressing. A pinch of cumin adds warmth to this colorful and flavorful salad, which is perfect as a side dish or even as a topping for grilled chicken or fish. Read the full recipe

8. Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing: 

Baby spinach leaves are combined with sliced fresh strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted almonds or pecans. A sweet and tangy poppy seed dressing complements the fruit and cheese beautifully. This salad is a delightful mix of sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures. Read the full recipe

9. Cucumber and Dill Salad with Yogurt Dressing: 

Thinly sliced cucumbers are tossed with fresh dill and a creamy yogurt-based dressing flavored with garlic and lemon juice. This refreshing and cooling salad is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or fish. Read the full recipe 

10. Asparagus and Tomato Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: 

Blanched or grilled asparagus spears are combined with halved cherry tomatoes and shaved Parmesan cheese. A simple balsamic vinaigrette adds a touch of sweetness and acidity. This elegant salad is both flavorful and visually appealing. Read the full recipe

There you have it! So go ahead, leave that lettuce behind and indulge in any of these delicious salads without lettuce! And don’t forget to include the perfect dressing.