17 Healthy Summer Salads

The sun is shining and it’s heating up this spring. In the winter, I’m all about hearty, comfy food. As it warms up, a light refreshing but also filling meal is a go-to for many. I’m bringing you a round-up of 17 healthy summer salads for lunch, barbeque sides, and family dinners.

Salads have come a long way from what I thought of them growing up. Lettuce, onion, and tomatoes then toss on some dressing and have it as a side to your meal. Today, they are gourmet, and delicious. There are literally hundreds of different ways to make them.

I usually pick one of two bases to make up the bulk of the salad and several mix-ins. Of course, the dressing is a must-have!

Bases

• Spinach
• Romaine
• Kale
• Quinoa

Mix-ins

• Veggies:
• Fiber-filled carbs:
• Fruits:
• Nuts/Seeds

Some of my favorite tools in making salads are:

• Salad Spinner– it’s great for washing and removing the extra water from salad greens.
• A Veggie Chopper– Quickly chop onions, peppers, tomatoes, and more.
• Large salad bowls– to allow for mixing and a pretty presentation.
• A gorgeous serving bowl for parties and family dinners- I have one similar to the one below and get so many compliments on it!

17 Healthy Summer Salads

1. Shrimp Avocado Tomato Salad -great for lunch or a summer dinner, and it’s fresh, healthy, and quick to make!

2. Spicy Southwest Salad– Perfectly seasoned chicken with lots of vegetables, and spicy ranch dressing for a kick!

3. Greek Powerhouse Salad- A base of kale, chopped onion, red pepper, cucumbers, chickpeas, and feta pack a powerful punch of nutrients! Try this with oil and vinegar or the infamous Greek dressing.

4. Keto Chicken Taco Salad– Super simple and bursting with fresh taco flavors.

5. Mason Jar Paleo Strawberry Chicken Salad with Walnuts– A go-to for lunches and traveling for a light and refreshing meal! Grab some mason jars for lunches here.

6. Beet, Mandarin, and Feta Salad – A fresh infusion of flavors to change up the normal. Try adding grilled chicken or salmon and this Panera Copycat Green Goddess dressing!

7. Paleo Broccoli and Bacon Salad– Not your average salad- broccoli and bacon combine with Garlic Lemon Dijon Dressing for a BBQ side dish or weeknight dinner.

8. Chipotle Chicken Spinach Salad– This salad uses rotisserie chicken and fresh produce for a refreshing summer salad.

9. Strawberry Salad with Goat Cheese and Almonds– Strawberries, almonds, and goat cheese- it’s the perfect side for parties and dinner.

10. Vegan Pasta Salad– This isn’t your average pasta salad. A staple for picnics and perfect for vegans and vegetarians!

11. Seafood Cobb Salad– A twist on regular cobb salad and a seafood lover’s dream!

12. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Kalamata Olive Salad Dressing– Crisp and flavorful. Add grilled chicken or salmon for a healthy dinner.

13. Charred Corn Avocado Salad– Sweet and smoky corn combine with refreshing avocados and tomatoes.

14. Easy Cobb Salad– Protein-packed and a classic pleaser- you can’t go wrong here.

15. Barley Salad with Lemon Dressing– Fresh barley with a light flavor- perfect for potlucks and gatherings.

Fruit Salads

16. Grilled Watermelon Salad– Watermelon is a go-to for summer and grilling it is another amazing way to eat it.

17. Fruit Salad with Honey Dressing– A beautiful combination of fruit in a sweet tangy dressing that’s sure to please your sweet tooth.

That’s a wrap! If you try one or several of these, leave a comment to let me know what you think!