10 Meatless Salads You’ll Love Making This Summer

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When the weather heats up, the last thing most of us want is to stand over a hot stove. That’s where these meatless summer salads come in. They’re light, fresh, full of seasonal produce, and – best of all – super easy to throw together. Whether you’re prepping a quick lunch, hosting a picnic, or looking for a satisfying no-cook dinner, this list has you covered. From hearty grain-based bowls to bright, herby veggie combos, these meatless salads don’t skimp on flavor or texture. Bonus: they’re perfect for anyone eating plant-based (or just taking a break from the grill).

Broccoli Crunch Salad

If you’re all about a salad with some crunch, this one checks every box. Crisp broccoli, chewy cranberries, and slivered almonds come together in a tangy, flavorful dressing that only gets better over time. Great for meal prep, potlucks, or an easy grab-and-go side from the fridge. Full recipe: Broccoli Crunch Salad

Grilled Halloumi and Strawberry Salad

Strawberries are at their best right now and bring such a fresh flavor in salads, particularly when coupled with Halloumi, a creamy variety of cheese straight from Cyprus. Adding this mixture on top of a combination of leafy greens and topping with tangy balsamic vinaigrette makes for the perfect summertime lunch. Full recipe: Grilled Halloumi and Strawberry Salad

Ancient Grains Salad

Hearty and fresh, this salad brings together nutty farro, crisp greens, and crunchy homemade pita chips. A zesty lemon vinaigrette brings it all to life, while shaved Parmesan and dried cranberries add a perfect balance of richness and sweetness. Full recipe: Ancient Grains Salad

Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini

This roasted cauliflower salad recipe has the potential to steal the show and serve as the main dish. Mixed with pomegranate seeds and roasted chickpeas, this salad can serve as the ultimate summer meal! Full recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini

Mexican Watermelon Salad

This summer, beat the heat with this watermelon salad recipe, which gets its signature flavor from toasted pumpkin seeds, your choice of salty cheese, a dash of lime, and an abundance of cilantro. Full recipe: Mexican Watermelon Salad

Curried Couscous Salad

Couscous salad is the perfect summer salad because it requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Also, you can couple it with just about anything to tailor it to your taste, including but not limited to dried cranberries, almonds, and cheese. Full recipe: Curried Couscous Salad

Santa Fe Salad

This easy, no-cook Santa Fe Salad is packed with fresh Mediterranean-inspired goodness – perfect for summer! Leafy greens come together with sweet corn, hearty beans, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado, all finished with a generous squeeze of lime for a bright, tangy kick. Full recipe: Santa Fe Salad

Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad

Strawberries and goat cheese are a match made in salad heaven, and this recipe brings them together perfectly. Juicy berries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy candied walnuts are tossed with a simple balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh, flavorful salad that works as a side or a light lunch. Full recipe: Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad

Balsamic Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables

Pasta doesn’t always have to be coupled with cheese and cooked with sauces and meat. Sometimes, boiled pasta can make an excellent base for your favorite salads – just like in this balsamic pasta salad with grilled veggies – perfect for a summer lunch! Full recipe: Balsamic Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables

Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad

This Mediterranean Israeli couscous salad is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for make-ahead lunches or potlucks. With juicy tomatoes, briny olives, creamy feta, and a bright lemon dressing, it’s as colorful as it is delicious. Serve it cold or at room temp – it’s great either way! Full recipe: Mediterranean Israeli Couscous Salad