Make the most of fresh produce with seasonal offerings this summer, and boost your health with a variety of nutrient-plentiful salads. Try these creative salad recipes for omnivores and vegans alike to enjoy. Fresh is best and, when possible, opt for organic and support your local farmers while supporting your health.
Whether you head to your local farmers market for your produce, grocery store or decide to grow your own, don’t miss out on what’s in season. Feel vibrant with vitality as you enjoy your salads this summer!
No need to be bored with the same ol’ salads. Whatever your type, bring a taste of the world to your table with these healthy options.
To make the recipes below, combine ingredients depending on your preferences and what’s on hand.
SOUTHWESTERN COBB SALAD
Ingredients: Chopped or shredded romaine lettuce or other salad greens, chopped grilled or baked chicken, corn, black beans, pico de gallo, chopped or minced bell/sweet peppers, diced or minced jalapenos/habaneros or other spicy peppers for kick, avocado slices, hard boiled eggs sliced, shredded pepper jack cheese, bacon bits and add a few sprigs of cilantro to garnish.
Creamy Chipotle Lime Dressing: Combine any of the following: avocado or EVOO (extra virgin olive oil), mayonnaise/half and half/nut milk, red wine/apple cider vinegar, lime juice, honey/blue agave, finely chopped cilantro (optional) and spices such as chili, cumin, paprika/cayenne and white pepper.
ASIAN SLAW SALAD
Ingredients: Shredded or chopped red cabbage, green cabbage and savoy cabbage or mixed spring greens, matchstick carrots, chopped green onions, chopped sweet peppers, diced granny smith apples, mandarin oranges, crushed peanuts and chopped cilantro and/or basil. Serve with slice(s) of lime and sprigs of cilantro to garnish.
Sweet and/or Spicy Ginger Lime Miso Vinaigrette: Toasted sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, chicken or vegetable broth, miso paste, grated or powdered ginger, lime zest and juice, honey or maple syrup for sweetness and/or wasabi and cayenne pepper for spiciness.
JAMAICAN JERK CHICKEN SALAD
Ingredients: Jamaican jerk chicken (rolled in chili, allspice, ginger, cloves, cinnamon and thyme), minced bell peppers, chunks or wedges of pineapples, red or green onions, jicama and/or chayote matchsticks.
Creamy Mango Lime Salad Dressing: Mango (puree or blended), lime juice and zest, liquid fractionated coconut oil, coconut milk, blue agave or maple syrup, paprika, cumin, white pepper and cayenne pepper.
SEAFOOD NIÇOISE SALAD
Ingredients: Boston lettuce, green beans, black olives, tomatoes, potatoes, hard boiled eggs, seafood medley of choice (scallops, shrimp, oysters, mussels, ahi tuna or salmon), sliced shallots or red onions, lemon wedges, capers, and sprigs of thyme to garnish.
Vin Blanc Cesar Vinaigrette: EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) or avocado oil, white wine, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, pureed anchovies, dry cheese (parmesan, Romano or Parmigiano-Reggiano) and minced or powdered garlic.
SCANDINAVIAN MIDSUMMER SALAD
Ingredients: Arugula, asparagus, beets, granny smith apple slices, crumbled blue cheese, pickled herring, smoked salmon or other fish, red onion, fresh dill and lemon wedges to squeeze on and garnish.
Lemon Ginger Vinaigrette: Grapeseed oil, lemon zest and juice, grated ginger and honey or stevia to sweeten.
GREEK GOODNESS SUMMER SALAD
Ingredients: Baby spinach, grape or cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, slivered red onions, crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, pepperoncini and quinoa or couscous.
Greek Goddess Vinaigrette: EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) or avocado oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, minced or powdered garlic, black or white pepper, and lemon zest and juice.
NEW ORLEANS SOUTHERN SUMMER SALAD
Ingredients: Dirty rice, red beans, chopped kale or romaine lettuce, chopped green onions, chopped celery, diced bell peppers. Add cooked and sliced andouille sausage, shrimp or shredded chicken.
FRUITALICIOUS FIX FRUIT SALAD
Ingredients: Melon slices, berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and/or raspberries), grapes, pineapple slices, banana slices and coconut flakes.
PESTO PASTA SALAD
Ingredients: Pasta of choice, pesto, grape or cherry tomatoes, sautéed eggplant, mozzarella balls or slices, displayed on a bed of baby spinach, drizzled with EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) and balsamic vinegar. Add fresh basil to garnish.
BROCCOLI AND WILD RICE SALAD
Ingredients: Chopped broccoli, wild rice, dried cranberries, pecans or walnuts, red onions and/or green onions, and bacon bits (optional). Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette or simply add oil and vinegar.
