Summer is prime time for bright, flavorful salads. They’re easy to prepare ahead, pair perfectly with grilled dishes, and travel well for potlucks, family reunions, and backyard BBQs. Whether you want a simple side or a hearty main, these recipes cover a wide range of tastes and textures.
Here are 23 favorite summer salads—from a crunchy broccoli salad that’s a crowd-pleaser to a hearty kale and wild rice bowl I keep coming back to, plus kid-approved pasta-and-chicken salads. Each one is tested and dependable for warm-weather entertaining and everyday meals.
Some of these work best as sides, others stand alone as satisfying dinners. They use fresh seasonal produce, bold dressings, and a variety of grains, proteins, and mix-ins so you can find something for every occasion.
If you need quick inspiration for the season, this roundup is packed with recipes I make on repeat all summer long.
1
The Best Broccoli Salad
Crisp broccoli mixed with a tangy homemade dressing, bacon, sunflower seeds, and a touch of sweetness—this broccoli salad is always a hit at potlucks and BBQs.
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2
Pesto Pasta Salad with Peas and Parmesan
A bright pasta salad with fresh pesto, sweet peas, and Parmesan—light but satisfying and perfect for summer gatherings.
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3
Pesto Balsamic Chicken Tortellini Toss
Chewy tortellini combined with grilled chicken, roasted tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a tangy pesto-balsamic dressing for a hearty summer main.
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4
Greek Pasta Salad
A classic Mediterranean-style pasta salad with olives, tomatoes, cucumber, and feta tossed in a flavorful dressing—fresh and easy to make.
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5
Vineyard Chicken and Pasta Salad
A light, elegant salad with pasta, juicy chicken, grapes, nuts, and herbs—balanced with a bright dressing that makes it perfect for dinner or entertaining.
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6
Kale and Wild Rice Salad
Hearty kale and nutty wild rice combined with chicken, avocado, feta, apples, and almonds—this salad is a satisfying, flavor-packed meal.
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7
Loaded Fresh Basil and Sweet Corn Couscous Green Salad
A colorful couscous salad with sweet corn and a vibrant basil dressing—quick to assemble and full of summer flavor.
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8
Avocado Chicken Salad
Creamy avocado with tender chicken, corn, and crisp bacon—ready in 15 minutes and ideal for a light, healthy meal or a party spread.
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9
Smashed Yukon Gold Potato Salad
A fresh take on potato salad: tender Yukon Golds lightly smashed and dressed for maximum flavor and creaminess.
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10
Honey Lime Fruit Salad
Sweet, tangy, and refreshingly simple—this honey lime fruit salad elevates fresh fruit with a zesty dressing.
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11
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Creamy, smoky esquites made with fresh corn, lime, and cotija—one of the best summer sides to serve hot off the grill.
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12
Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Orzo Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
Grilled chicken and tender veggies tossed with orzo and a bright honey-lime dressing—colorful, delicious, and great warm or chilled.
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13
Easy Cowboy Caviar
A vibrant, no-fuss dip of beans, corn, and fresh salsa ingredients—perfect as a side, appetizer, or topping for grilled meats.
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14
Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad
A summer favorite: charred chicken, crisp lettuce, bacon, egg, and cheese with a simple homemade dressing for a filling, flavorful meal.
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15
Fresh Green Bean Salad with Balsamic Dressing
Tender green beans tossed with a bright balsamic vinaigrette—clean, crisp, and ideal as a summer side dish.
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16
Tri-Color Pasta Salad
A crowd-pleasing classic: colorful pasta, veggies, and a creamy dressing with a hint of pesto.
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17
BBQ Chicken Salad Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls
BBQ chicken served over cilantro-lime rice with fresh toppings—an easy, flavorful bowl for lunch or dinner.
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18
Summer Roasted Vegetable Orzo Salad with Fresh Basil
Roasted summer vegetables and orzo tossed with basil and a light lemon vinaigrette—simple, fresh, and vibrant.
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19
German Potato Salad
Warm German potato salad with a savory, vinegar-based dressing and bacon—an easy, flavorful side that’s great for cookouts.
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20
Chopped Thai Crunch Salad with Sweet and Spicy Dressing
A crunchy, vibrant Thai-inspired salad with tender chicken and a balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in the dressing.
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21
Greek Pita Bread Salad
Toasted pita adds crunch to this Greek-style salad with cucumbers, olives, chickpeas, and feta—refreshing and filling.
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22
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Homemade Poppy Seed Dressing
Sweet strawberries and tender spinach tossed with a creamy poppy seed dressing—pretty, bright, and delicious for summer.
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23
Orzo Salad with Tomatoes, Basil and Feta
Light and refreshing orzo tossed with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, feta, and pine nuts—simple, versatile, and ideal for warm days.
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