Who said salads are boring? They can satisfy your cravings for something fresh, green, or hearty; they provide a balanced abundance of nutrients; and you can pack them with vibrant produce and your favorite grains and legumes. A delicious salad is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish.

Plant-Based Salads

The sky’s the limit when putting together a mouth-watering summer salad. Here is a list of our favorite combinations to inspire your next meal prep, family gathering, or potluck. Trust us—you’ll want to make extra.

Strawberry Chopped Salad

Whenever strawberries are in season, this chopped salad is a delicious way to incorporate them into your menu.

Blueberry Chickpea Salad

Blueberries are nature’s candy, except their sweetness is all natural and they’re brimming with antioxidants and other nutrients. In this salad, they add a burst of freshness that’s perfect for the summer months!

Curried Rice Salad

The sweetness of the currants contrasts well with the lively curry flavor. If you don’t have currants, use raisins or other dried fruit. Serve this salad on a bed of greens—such as spinach, arugula, or field greens—for a nice lunch.

Texas Caviar

This wonderful summer salad is full of fresh garden flavors and nutrient-dense ingredients. The jalapeño peppers give it a little kick that pairs deliciously with the earthy sweetness of the black-eyed peas.

Mango Ceviche With Kale

Ceviche is a raw fish dish traditionally prepared in countries like Mexico, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Chile. This plant-based ceviche is an easy and refreshing recipe that is great during warmer months. Even with very few ingredients, its flavor is exquisite!

Greek Salad with Tofu "Feta"

This Greek salad is great as a side with pizza or pasta. You can also enjoy it on its own with whole grain bread. For the greens, I prefer a balanced mixture of arugula, spinach, and romaine lettuce. The peppery flavor of the arugula goes really well with the Kalamata olives and marinated tofu!

Apple Fig Arugula Salad

The peppery arugula, toasted pecans, and mix of tart and sweet fruits in this salad make it a perfect accompaniment for any dish. Or, it can be a quick, easy meal on its own when cooking seems like too much work.

Late Summer Potato Green Bean Salad

You won’t miss the mayo in this potato salad because of its delicious vinaigrette base. This salad is nice and light compared to most potato salads, and it makes great use of veggies that are in season in the late summer.

Hearty Kale Salad

Hearty kale makes a delicious green salad packed with beta-carotene and nutrient-rich antioxidants.

Vegan Caesar Salad

Creamy cashew-based vegan Caesar dressing and homemade croutons make this salad a real crowd pleaser.

Ensalada Azteca

Featuring quinoa, black beans, and mangoes, this vibrant dish from The China Study Cookbook is perfect for summertime meals.

Three Bean Salad With Roasted Potatoes

With a variety of beans; bright, crisp, fresh vegetables; and hearty roasted potatoes, this filling, festive salad will be a hit at your next picnic, barbecue, or potluck.

Easy Eggless Potato Salad

This is truly the best potato salad—creamy, flavorful, and satisfying. It is the perfect side dish for barbecues and gatherings.