15 Delcious Summer Salads (Easy Side Dish Recipes)

Looking for fresh and flavorful summer salads? Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a light dinner idea, these salads are full of seasonal ingredients. From pasta salads and BBQ sides to fruity blends and healthy dinner options, there’s something here for every summer table.

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

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This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is bursting with sweet corn, tangy lime, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together. It’s a fresh twist on a classic side that’s sure to steal the spotlight at your next get-together. Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Hawaiian macaroni salad in a white bowl.
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Summer pasta salads are perfect for feeding a crowd for backyard BBQ’s and family gatherings. Made with simple ingredients and minimal prep, this hearty salad is a crowd-pleaser every time! Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Macaroni Salad

Mediterranean Chickepea Salad

Chickpea salad on a platter.
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If you’re looking for healthy recipes for hot days, this simple Chickpea Salad takes only 15 minutes of prep time! Let it chill in the fridge for 1 hour, then enjoy! Ideal for potucks, bbq’s and family dinners. Get the Recipe: Easy Chickpea Salad

Easy Spaghetti Pasta Salad

Spaghetti pasta salad close up image on a white plate.
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This easy Spaghetti Pasta Salad is a fresh and flavorful addition to any summer spread. Tossed with crisp veggies, cheese, and a zesty vinaigrette, it comes together fast and pairs perfectly with all your favorite grilled dishes. Get the Recipe: Easy Spaghetti Pasta Salad

Creamy Cucumber Salad

Creamy cucumber salad in a white bowl.
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Cool, creamy, and full of crunch—this cucumber salad is a summer staple! Made with fresh cucumbers, red onion, and dill, it’s tossed in a tangy dressing and ready in minutes. A go-to side for BBQs, picnics, or any warm-weather meal. Get the Recipe: Creamy Cucumber Salad

Creamy Red Potato Salad

Red potato salad in a yellow bowl.
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This creamy red potato salad is a simple, crowd-pleasing side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats. Made with red potatoes, eggs, and a rich, tangy dressing, it’s a must-have for BBQs, picnics, and summer cookouts. Get the Recipe: Creamy Red Potato Salad

Loaded Fattoush Salad

Fattoush salad in a bowl with a fork.
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Packed with crisp summer veggies, chickpeas, and feta, this fresh take on Loaded Fattoush Salad is bursting with bright Mediterranean flavor—perfect for warm-weather meals. Get the Recipe: Loaded Fattoush Salad

Chinese Chicken Salad

Chinese chicken salad on a white plate.
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This Easy Chinese Chicken Salad comes together in just 15 minutes and is packed with flavor and crunch! With soy sauce, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, plus crisp cabbage, chow mein noodles, and sweet mandarin oranges, it’s a fresh, fun twist on a classic. Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad

Photo collage of Caprese pasta salad.
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This Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad is a fresh summer favorite! Tossed with cheese tortellini, juicy tomatoes, basil, and bocconcini, all coated in flavorful pesto—it’s perfect as a light main dish or a side for warm-weather gatherings. Get the Recipe: Caprese Pasta Salad

Pea Salad With Bacon

Pea salad with bacon served on a white plate.
Photo Credit: She’s Not Cookin’

This easy summer salad combines cheese tortellini, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy bocconcini, all tossed in zesty pesto. Serve it as a light main or a refreshing side—perfect for picnics, BBQs, or any sunny day meal! Get the Recipe: Pea Salad With Bacon

Spinach & Berry Salad

Spinach and berry salad served on a white plate.
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This Strawberry Spinach Salad is a fresh, vibrant way to showcase summer fruit. With sweet strawberries, crisp spinach, and salty feta, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing salad perfect for warm-weather meals and outdoor gatherings. Get the Recipe: Spinach & Berry Salad

Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

Watermelon salad served in a white bowl.
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This 4-ingredient Feta Watermelon Salad is the perfect easy summer dish. Sweet watermelon, tangy feta, fresh mint, and balsamic glaze make it a refreshing side for BBQs, picnics, or potlucks. Get the Recipe: Watermelon Salad with Feta Cheese

Mediterranean Orzo Pesto Salad

Orzo pesto salad served in a white bowl.
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This Mediterranean Orzo Pesto Salad is bursting with fresh flavor! Packed with cherry tomatoes, black olives, cucumber, red onion, feta, and tender orzo tossed in pesto—it’s a quick, easy crowd-pleaser for any summer spread. Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Pesto Salad

Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

Chicken pesto salad in a bowl with a spoon.
Photo Credit: She’s Not Cookin’

This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is the ultimate summer dinner salad—fresh, easy, and full of flavor. Just cook the pasta, toss everything together, and you’ve got a delicious main or side that’s perfect for BBQs and warm-weather meals. Get the Recipe: Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

House Salad

House salad in a white bowl.
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Everyone needs a go-to house salad, and this one hits all the right notes. Fresh, simple, and packed with flavor, it’s just like your favorite restaurant version. Easy to toss together and perfect for serving a crowd at potlucks, dinners, or casual get-togethers. Get the Recipe: House Salad

Easy Taco Salad with Ground Beef

Ground beef taco salad in a white bowl ready to be mixed and served.
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This easy taco salad features seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, crunchy tortilla strips, and a creamy dressing—perfect for busy weeknights and ready in just 25 minutes! Hearty enough for dinner, it’s also a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and parties. Get the Recipe: Taco Salad Recipe

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