12 Simple Summer Salads with Fresh Citrus, Grains, and Seasonal Ingredients

Fresh, easy, and bursting with flavor — these 12 Simple Summer Salads are everything you need for sunny days! From vibrant Citrus Salads to hearty Grain Bowls, these recipes use the best seasonal ingredients to keep your meals light and refreshing. Perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a backyard BBQ, these Best Summer Salads are ready fast and packed with color, crunch, and nutrition. Dive into the easiest and most delicious Summer Salad Recipes to brighten up every bite!

1. Classic Caprese Salad: 

The simplicity of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze or olive oil is always a winner. This Italian classic requires minimal effort and highlights the fresh flavors of summer produce. Read the full recipe

2. Watermelon and Feta Salad: 

A surprisingly delightful combination of sweet, juicy watermelon and salty, crumbly feta cheese. Add some fresh mint leaves and a light lime dressing for an extra burst of flavor and refreshment on a hot day. Read the full recipe

3. Cucumber and Tomato Salad with Red Onion: 

A simple yet satisfying salad featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. A basic vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs brings all the fresh flavors together. Read the full recipe

4. Corn and Avocado Salad with Lime Dressing: 

Sweet corn kernels (fresh, grilled, or canned) combined with creamy avocado, red onion, and cilantro. A zesty lime dressing adds a bright and tangy touch to this easy and flavorful salad. Read the full recipe

5. Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette: 

A mix of your favorite leafy greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula) tossed with a basic vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and herbs. Add some simple toppings like sliced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor. Read the full recipe

6. Chickpea Salad Sandwich Filling (as a salad): 

Mash canned chickpeas with vegan mayonnaise or tahini, celery, red onion, and seasonings like dill and paprika. Enjoy it as a light and protein-rich salad on its own or over some lettuce. Read the full recipe

7. Pasta Salad with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes: 

Cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle work well) tossed with vibrant pesto sauce and halved cherry tomatoes. You can add other simple ingredients like mozzarella balls or grilled zucchini for extra flavor. Read the full recipe

8. Bean Salad with Corn and Bell Peppers: 

A colorful and hearty salad featuring canned kidney beans, black beans, and sweet corn. Add diced bell peppers (any color) and a simple lime or cider vinegar-based dressing for a quick and easy side. Read the full recipe

9. Broccoli Salad with Raisins and Sunflower Seeds: 

Tender raw broccoli florets combined with sweet raisins and crunchy sunflower seeds in a light and slightly tangy dressing made with mayonnaise or Greek yogurt and a touch of vinegar. Read the full recipe

10. Quinoa Salad with Herbs and Lemon: 

Cooked quinoa tossed with a generous amount of fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro, along with a simple lemon vinaigrette. This salad is light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients. Read the full recipe

11. Lentil Salad with Vegetables: 

Cooked lentils combined with diced cucumbers, carrots, and red onion. A simple dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard adds a bright and tangy flavor to this protein-rich salad. Read the full recipe

12. Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: 

A refreshing mix of your favorite seasonal fruits like berries, melon, grapes, and kiwi, drizzled with a light and sweet honey-lime dressing. This simple salad is a perfect dessert or light snack on a warm day. Read the full recipe