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 opens in a new tab. Or go for Grilled Veggie Caesar Salad with Sourdough Croutons opens in a new tab.
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 opens in a new tab.
Grains and seeds can make for a yummy salad, too. Check out Lentil and Quinoa Salad with Cashews opens in a new tab or Bulgur Salad with Kale, Salami and Olives opens in a new tab.
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.
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 opens in a new tab.
Summer’s freshest fruits are just begging to be made into a salad. Go for a berry medley opens in a new tab 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 opens in a new tab and Honey Mustard Salmon Salad opens in a new tab both hit the spot.
Potato salad completes any picnic or potluck. Try our Garden Potato Salad opens in a new tab or Dijon Vinaigrette Potato Salad opens in a new tab.
Are you a bean lover? Go for Sprouted Mung Bean Salad opens in a new tab, Tuna and White Bean Salad opens in a new tab, or Black Bean Salad with Avocado Lime Dressing opens in a new tab.
What do you love to put in a summery salad?
