summer salad recipes

30 Easy & Healthy Summer Salad Recipes for Heat-Wave Days


My summer salad recipes are a rainbow of easy, healthy summer salads that come together in minutes. From a gluten-free summer quinoa salad to a vegan cucumber tomato salad for BBQ, a keto summer avocado salad, and even a zesty summer fruit salad with citrus dressing. It’s sweltering, and the last thing you want is a hot stove. These bowls keep you cool, satisfied, and fuss-free all season long.

summer salad recipes

Why You’ll Love These Summer Salad Recipes

The best thing about summer salads is that they require almost zero stove-time. All the heavy lifting is done by the season itself: sun-ripened tomatoes, juicy watermelon, tender herbs and crisp cucumbers taste spectacular with only a drizzle of vinaigrette.

I’ve rounded up every salad recipe on MyTastyCurry.com that screams “summer!”. From five-minute no-cook salad bowls to make-ahead pasta salads you can tote to the beach. Each one is vegetarian (many are vegan and gluten-free) yet loaded with protein, fibre and colour. These healthy salad ideas will keep dinner lively all the way through Labour Day.

15-Minute Cooling Salads

When the mercury is pushing 40 °C, “quick and refreshing summer salad” is my mantra. These recipes require nothing more than chopping and tossing. These are perfect for those heat-wave days when you refuse to turn on the stove.

1

Mizeria salad recipe

Mizeria: Polish Cucumber Salad

Creamy Cucumber salad known as Mizeria dish made with sliced cucumbers that are marinated in a flavorful high protein dressing.

Check out this recipe

2

Watermelon cucumber salad recipe

Watermelon Cucumber Salad

Try easy watermelon & cucumber salad! Featuring juicy watermelon, crisp cucumbers & a tangy dressing, this vegan salad is a perfect way to cool off on a hot day

Check out this recipe

Watermelon Cucumber Salad

Bright, hydrating and naturally sweet, this watermelon cucumber salad is refreshing and a tangy lime dressing makes it a perfect summer recipe. It’s the dish I bring to every barbecue because the bowl always comes home empty. 

Creamy Cucumber Salad (Polish Mizeria)

Sliced cucumbers coated with creamy yogurt dressing. This high protein crunchy cukes salad with fresh dill is The Best summer Salad. A glug of extra-virgin olive oil plus cracked pepper is all the seasoning it needs. (Recipe ➜ /Polish Cucumber salad/)

3

cucumber raita recipe

Cucumber Raita Recipe

Raita is a popular side dish in Indian cuisine. Cucumber raita recipe with Mint. Raita for biryani is almost a staple in Indian food. This raita is recipe is cooling and perfect raita to serve with spicy food.

Check out this recipe

4

Watermelon feta mint basil salad

Watermelon Feta Salad

Try easy watermelon & cucumber salad! Featuring juicy watermelon in tangy dressing, topped with salty feta cheese. This watermelon salad is a perfect way to cool off on a hot day

Check out this recipe

Watermelon Feta Salad

This watermelon cucumber salad balances salty cheese with cooling mint and a tangy lime dressing. It’s the dish I bring to every barbecue because the bowl always comes home empty.  (Recipe ➜ /Watermelon Feta Salad/) 

Indian-Style Kachumber Raita

If you love raita, you’ll inhale this yogurt cucumber salad laced with roasted cumin and coriander leaves. It doubles as a cooling side for spicy curries and as a standalone light lunch. (Recipe ➜ /kachumber-raita-recipe/)

High-Protein Vegetarian Salads

Meat-free doesn’t mean low protein. I lean on chickpeas, edamame, paneer and quinoa to build salads that keep you full for hours ideal for vegetarian high-protein summer lunches.

5

quinoa pistachio salad recipe

Quinoa Pistachio Cranberry Salad

Quinoa Pistachio Cranberry Salad is a delightful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a healthy lunch option or side for dinner, this salad is perfect

Check out this recipe

6

Rajma and quinoa salad recipe

High Protein Quinoa Salad

High-Protein Quinoa Salad with over 15 grams of protein per serving and whopping 9 grams of fibre is healthy and easy to make salad. It is vegan, and gluten-free. A delicious and easy to carry for a packed lunch or picnics. 

Check out this recipe

7

chana chaat recipe

Indian chickpeas Salad Recipe

Authentic Indian Chickpeas Salad Recipe – a zesty, protein-rich dish packed with vibrant spices and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a healthy meal, quick lunch, or party appetizer.

Check out this recipe

8

Greek Chickpea Salad

Greek Chickpea Salad

Make a quick, healthy Greek Chickpeas Salad with fresh veggies, protein-packed chickpeas, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a nutritious meal or side dish.

Check out this recipe

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Loaded with chickpeas, olives, cherry tomatoes and cubes of homemade paneer or feta, this salad packs 18 g protein per serving without a single leaf of lettuce. Lemon-oregano vinaigrette seals the Greek vibe. (Recipe ➜ /mediterranean-chickpea-salad/)

9

Texas Caviar

Cowboy caviar is fresh, vibrant, fully loaded beans and summer vegetables salad tossed in a tangy and sweet lime dressing! A right kick of spices makes it an ideal party dip or a go to healthy meal prep option. Call it salsa, Texas Caviar, bean salad or cowboy caviar this is perfect Southwestern delight.

Check out this recipe

10

High protein moong sprout salad

High-Protein Sprouts Chaat

Elevate your festival food with this High-Protein Sprouts Chaat! Packed with nutritious moong sprouts and gluten-free ingredients, this vegetarian chaat is a healthy snack idea that’s as delicious as it is protein-rich. Perfect for celebrating with a guilt-free treat!

Check out this recipe

Make-Ahead Pasta & Potato Salads

Some summer gatherings call for heartier sides that can sit happily on a picnic table. These make-ahead summer salads taste even better after the flavours mingle overnight.

11

taco pasta salad

Taco Pasta Salad

Easy vegetarian Taco Pasta Salad. Give a tasty twist to your simple pasta and make this refreshing Cowboy style vegetable Pasta salad. This hearty vegetarian pasta salad is fully loaded with everything delicious.

Check out this recipe

12

Mediterranean Pasta Chickpea Salad Recipe

If you are looking for a healthy and flavorful salad recipe, then Mediterranean Pasta Chickpea Salad is an excellent option. This salad is full of colorful vegetables, tender pasta, and protein-rich chickpeas, making it a filling and nutritious meal.

Check out this recipe

13

cropped-herbed-potato-salad-easy-healthy.jpg

Easy and Healthy Herb Potato Salad Recipe

This Herb Potato Salad recipe is a perfect addition to any meal. It’s easy to prepare, packed with fresh flavors, and suitable for various dietary needs including vegan and gluten-free. This version uses garlic powder for a more subtle garlic flavor, making it a great option for those who prefer a milder taste.

Check out this recipe

14

Homemade Pesto Pasta

Pesto Pasta Salad

Try this easy homemade pesto pasta made with gluten-free, high-protein pasta! In this blog, I’ll show you how to meal prep this quick and delicious dish with simple ingredients like fresh basil and walnuts.

Check out this recipe

Creamy Herb Potato Salad (No Mayo)

Silky yogurt stands in for mayonnaise, keeping things light yet luscious. Fresh dill, parsley and mustard seeds add zing. Bonus: because it’s mayo-free, it’s safer for outdoor temps. (Recipe ➜ /creamy-herb-potato-salad/)

15

Tomato Burrata Salad

Discover the freshness of flavours with this easy Tomato Burrata recipe. Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy burrata, and fresh herbs create a healthy and delicious salad perfect for any occasion!

Check out this recipe

16

Mexican Street Corn Salad Featured Image

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Recipe Salad with this easy and healthy recipe. Featuring roasted corn, tangy lime, creamy Cotija cheese, and a touch of spice, this quick salad is perfect as a side dish, snack, or topping for tacos.

Check out this recipe

Fruit-Forward Sweet-Savory Bowls

Sweet fruit + savoury elements = summer magic. These Summer Salad recipes satisfy both your salad craving and dessert urge in one go.

17

Orange and Pomegranate Salad Recipe

Orange Pomegranate Salad

Orange & Pomegranate Salad has a citrus punch, juicy seeds & health benefits packed in 1 vibrant dish. Enjoy it as light lunch, a side for dinner, or even a fancy brunch

Check out this recipe

18

Indian fruit salad featured image

Indian Fruit Salad Recipe

Make a delicious and healthy Indian fruit salad with this easy recipe. Packed with seasonal fruits and Indian spices, it’s perfect for any occasion.

Check out this recipe

Low-Carb & Keto Summer Salads

If you’re cutting carbs but still want a refreshing meal, these bowls keep net carbs under 10 g without skimping on flavour.

19

spicy Korean cucumber salad recipe

Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe

Korean cucumber salad, also known as Oi Muchim, is a traditional Korean side dish made with sliced cucumbers that are marinated in a flavorful dressing. The salad is often served as a side dish with Korean meals or as a refreshing appetizer.

Check out this recipe

20

macaroni pasta salad

Macaroni Salad Recipe

best, classic, old-fashioned, creamy macaroni salad with fruits crisp vegetables dressed in a simple and creamy dressing without mayonnaise for any picnic, potluck, or barbecue

Check out this recipe

21

Water chestnut Salad Recipe

This water chestnut Salad is crispy, flavorful, and light on your tummy, making it perfect for Navratri fasting.

Check out this recipe

22

Avocado Salad

This salad is the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The vinaigrette dressing adds the perfect touch of tanginess to bring it all together.

Check out this recipe

Picnic-Proof Meal-Prep Tips

  • Embrace no-cook proteins – Canned beans, paneer cubes, feta, boiled eggs and edamame make salads satiating without heating the kitchen.
  • Layer smart – Wet ingredients (tomatoes, fruit) go on the bottom, sturdy greens on top to stay crisp.
  • Keep it cool – Freeze dressing jars for 30 minutes; they double as ice packs.
  • Season generously – Cold dulls flavours; add extra herbs, citrus and salt just before serving.

AVOCADO DRESSING: This avocado salad dressing is a total bomb. You must have this one in your fridge all the time.

Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad

Think of it as a chunky gazpacho: tomatoes at peak juiciness, buttery avocado, crunchy cukes and a punch of fresh basil. A glug of extra-virgin olive oil plus cracked pepper is all the seasoning it needs. (Recipe ➜ /cucumber-tomato-avocado-salad/)

23

Thai Cucumber Salad

Thai cucumber salad with bold flavours of red onion and crunch of peanuts. Super easy to put together, light refreshing fresh Asian inspired ingredients create a perfect salad or side dish to pair with any asian meal. Its ready in 10 minutes and tastes awesome as a meal by itself or a great side to any meal.

Check out this recipe

24

keto egg salad recipe image

Keto Egg Salad Wraps

These keto egg salad wraps are perfect wraps with eggs. Made with hard-boiled eggs, avocado, and mayonnaise, this egg salad is keto, creamy, delicious and perfect for low carb diet.

Check out this recipe

25

Salad Recipes

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad, is a traditional Iranian salad made from finely diced tomatoes, persian cucumbers. This persian salad is served as a side dish or as a topping for grilled meats or as a sandwich filling.

Check out this recipe

26

Mango Salsa with Tajin

Sweet spicy and absolutely delicious mango salsa recipe. Serve this refreshing mango salsa with Tortilla chips, top your tacos, serve as a salad or enjoy like I did I served it with Monaco crackers and it was a bomb dot com. 

Check out this recipe

27

Persian Beet & Pomegranate Salad

Do you want to indulge in a seriously delicious & nutritious salad ? This beetroot salad is packed with antioxidants, healthy & packed with so much flavor.

Check out this recipe

28

Wilted Lettuce Salad

Discover the delightful Wilted Lettuce Salad recipe packed with protein and flavor! This easy-to-make high-protein salad features a tangy dressing and boiled eggs, perfect for any meal. Enjoy the healthy goodness today!

Check out this recipe

29

chopped Salad recipe

Chopped Spring Salad

Best vegetarian Spring chopped salad with homemade creamy dressing. Pair this vegan green salad with protein for a filling main meal.

Check out this recipe

30

Spiced Cucumber Salad

Spiced Cucumber Salad with Whipped Hung Yogurt is a refreshing and perfect for the hot summer days when you need something cool and light to eat.

Check out this recipe

31

Mexican Street Style Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Recipe Salad with this easy and healthy recipe. Featuring roasted corn, tangy lime, creamy Cotija cheese, and a touch of spice, this quick salad is perfect as a side dish, snack, or topping for tacos.

Check out this recipe

32

Sprout Salad

Moong sprouts Salad is popular Indian salad. This sprout recipe is perfect for the times when you are on a healthy diet but still want to eat spicy chaat. The recipe is a actually a salad but tastes like a chaat.

Check out this recipe

33

roasted corn salad

Roasted Corn Salad

Roasted corn salad made with sweet corn mixed with spicy peppers, a touch of acidity and a lot of creaminess from salty cheese and crunch from veggies! This Tex Mex Style Esquites is The Best as a salad or as a salsa to use with Chips or taco toppings.

Check out this recipe

34

Best Beet Salad

Beet Salad is a fresh and wholesome side dish that will make your taste buds jump for joy? Look no further! This Beetroot Salad with strawberry vinaigrette has everything; it’s healthy, flavorful, colorful, and sure to bring life to any meal.

Check out this recipe

35

Holiday Honeycrisp Salad

Enjoy a refreshing Holiday Honeycrisp Salad with crisp greens, juicy Honeycrisp apples, and a tangy homemade dressing. This high-fiber, gluten-free Holiday Honeycrisp Apple Salad recipe is perfect for glowing skin and seasonal health!

Check out this recipe

36

ABC Salad

Try this ABC Salad—a good skin salad that’s high in fiber and packed with ingredients to support healthy skin. With apples, beetroots, and carrots, it’s a delicious and easy way to nourish your body inside out!

Check out this recipe

37

Broccoli and Beans Salad with Tahini

Make this recipe of Broccoli & beans salad If you’re looking for a healthy & delicious meal that is both filling & satisfying.  

Check out this recipe

38

Caesar Salad

This Classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce topped with croutons & parmesan cheese drizzled generously with easy vegan caesar salad dressing is one crowd-pleaser.

Check out this recipe

How To Prepare Kale For Salad

If you love some leafy salad you must know a few basics like How to Prepare Kale for Salad

39

green peas salad: Indian green peas Koshimbir

Indian Green Peas Koshimbir Recipe

Green peas Koshimbir is simple yet delicious dish made with fresh sweet & juicy tender fresh green peas. This Maharashtrian salad dish can be enjoyed as a salad or side dish

Check out this recipe

40

Falafel salad

Falafel salad recipe with Tahini

Falafel salad is packed with amazing flavors. Fresh veggies & falafel balls topped with fresh herbs & salty cheese make a refreshing healthy lunch.

Check out this recipe

Quinoa Power Bowl

Fluffy quinoa meets crunchy veggies and creamy beans in refreshing cilantro-lime dressing. Each bite delivers a hit of vitamin C and all nine essential amino acids no protein powder required. (Recipe ➜ /quinoa-paneer-salad/)

41

Easy Paneer Tikka Quinoa Salad

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious meal, this Paneer Tikka Quinoa Salad is perfect for you. Combining the flavors of spicy paneer tikka with the wholesome goodness of quinoa

42

Rajma and quinoa salad recipe

High Protein Quinoa Salad

High-Protein Quinoa Salad with over 15 grams of protein per serving and whopping 9 grams of fibre is healthy and easy to make salad. It is vegan, and gluten-free. A delicious and easy to carry for a packed lunch or picnics. 

Check out this recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular summer salad?

Watermelon Feta Mint Salad wins hands-down on traffic and five-star reviews. It’s hydrating, sweet-savory and ready in under 10 minutes.

How do I keep salads fresh for a picnic?

Chill every element (dressing included) before packing, use airtight containers, and stash the lot in an insulated cooler. Add delicate greens at the last minute for maximum crispness.

Can these recipes be meal-prepped for the week?

Absolutely. The high-protein and pasta salads hold up for 3–4 days. Store dressing separately, then toss just before eating to prevent sogginess.

Are your summer salads vegan-friendly?

Over half are naturally vegan (look for the “🌱” symbol in each recipe). For the rest, swap dairy cheese for tofu feta or nut-based cheese, and use maple syrup instead of honey in dressings.

What’s the best dressing for a summer salad?

A simple lemon-herb vinaigrette: 3 Tbsp olive oil + 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice + pinch salt + chopped mint or basil. Shake in a jar—done!

Whether you crave easy summer saladshealthy no-cook lunches, or make-ahead barbecue sides, this collection has a bowl with your name on it.

P.S. Pin this roundup so you never run out of dinner ideas when the next heat wave hits!

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