Celebrate Summer With These Fresh & Tasty Seasonal Salads

The weather’s getting warmer, the days are getting longer, and the feel of summer being just around the corner is in the air. There are few things we love more than getting together with friends for a meal outside, and nothing says “al fresco,” better than a fresh and flavorful salad. Whether you’re hosting or attending a cookout as a guest, read on for some in-season salad ideas that your fellow diners are sure to love.

Strawberry Walnut Salad with Goat Cheese

We’ve noticed that the best summer salads often follow a particular formula—a seasonal fruit, some nuts, and a sprinkle of cheese. This recipe by Walder Wellness knocks it out of the park by mixing strawberries with some tangy goat cheese, fresh basil, and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette. She recommends spring mix as a base, but we also love to make it with spinach.

Watermelon Basil Salad with Cucumber and Mozzarella

There’s no greater symbol of summer than watermelon, and we’re constantly on the lookout for fun, new ways to enjoy the season’s juiciest treat. You can certainly slice it up and serve it on its own, but for barbecues, we love to toss it with some cheese and fresh veggies. This recipe by bits + bites is easy to throw together with just four ingredients and is ready to serve in 20 minutes.

BLT Pasta Salad

For a heartier option that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest picnic goers, we love this variation on a classic pasta salad by Stephanie from The Cozy Cook. Bacon, romaine lettuce, and cherry tomatoes are always a great combination, but they’re even better when tossed with some farfalle pasta and a bit of homemade ranch dressing. You can even prepare this one in advance; just be sure to store all of the components separately until it’s time to serve.