When the heat is on, the last thing I want to do is cook up a big, heavy meal. Salads to the rescue! Not only are they full of crisp, refreshing ingredients, they’re a snap to put together. Veggies, grains, beans and fruits are all key components of a perfect salad. If you want to step outside the traditional salad bowl, try a few of these.

• Grilled salads are unexpected – try grilling up romaine lettuce, peppers, onions, mushrooms and zucchini, then tossing with a simple dressing of oil and vinegar, like in our Grilled Tomato and Romaine Salad. Or go for Grilled Veggie Caesar Salad with Sourdough Croutons.
• Caprese sure pleases! Try a caprese salad with leftover shredded chicken for an extra protein punch, and dress it with our 365 Everyday Value Organic Balsamic Vinaigrette.
• Who needs lettuce in a salad? Slice up gorgeous, meaty heirloom tomatoes and pair with fresh basil for a greens-free salad.
• Grains and seeds can make for a yummy salad, too. Check out Lentil and Quinoa Salad with Cashews or Bulgur Salad with Kale, Salami and Olives.
• Taco salad is fun and family-friendly: start with a base of romaine, black beans and tortilla chips, and let everyone choose their toppings, from salsa to avocado to shredded cheese.
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• Speaking of avocado, why not pair it with cooked salmon and red onion for a salad reminiscent of a morning bagel?
• Thinly sliced steak pairs beautifully with lettuce. Try our Grass-fed Steak with Spring Greens.
• Summer’s freshest fruits are just begging to be made into a salad. Go for a berry medley or mix pineapple and melons with mint and a honey-lime dressing.
• Don’t forget about spreadable salads that are delicious on their own or stuffed into whole grain pita. Creamy Tofu Salad and Honey Mustard Salmon Salad both hit the spot.
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• Potato salad completes any picnic or potluck. Try our Garden Potato Salad or Dijon Vinaigrette Potato Salad.
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• Are you a bean lover? Go for Sprouted Mung Bean Salad, Tuna and White Bean Salad, or Black Bean Salad with Avocado Lime Dressing.

What do you love to put in a summery salad?