10 Refreshing Summer Salad Recipes

We all know the feeling of craving something a little lighter and more refreshing when the weather warms up. For us, that often means a really good salad. Not an afterthought or a side dish, but a bowl full of crisp veg, juicy fruit, herbs, crunch and a great dressing to tie it all together.

So what makes a salad sing? We think it’s all about contrasts: soft and crunchy, sharp and sweet, cooling and bold. Seasonal ingredients do most of the heavy lifting — think ripe tomatoes, cucumber, peaches, radish, and plenty of fresh herbs — but a few smart additions can take things to the next level.To help you make the most of the sunshine and build something delicious, we’ve pulled together a few easy tips – plus some of our favourite quick recipes to get you started.

6 Steps to Elevate Your Summer Salads

Think beyond lettuce: Try water-rich veg like cucumber, fennel or radish, or mix in chilled grains like quinoa or orzo to make it more filling.

Add something sweet: Fresh fruit like mango, peach or watermelon adds natural sweetness and brightness.

Layer your textures: A mix of textures makes every bite more satisfying. Toss in toasted seeds or nuts, pan-fried chickpeas, or a handful of crispy croutons.

Go heavy on herbs: We love mint, basil, coriander or tarragon. They add extra plant points and bring such a delicious lift to each bite.

Finish with a fresh dressing: Whether it’s zesty lemon-tahini, creamy yoghurt-herb, or a punchy vinaigrette, this is what ties it all together.

Refreshing Summer Salad Recipes