With warm days ahead, it’s time to ready the fresh, crunchy salads! Whether you have an abundance of cucumbers or are craving the cooling, sweet flavors of peak summer produce, these recipes have you covered. We’ve gathered summer side salads that come together fast (most ready in 20 minutes or less!) with seasonal ingredients + simple methods. Scroll through to get inspired for the season!
(Note: Dietary symbols listed throughout for easy navigation!)
A fresh, vibrant Mediterranean-inspired salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, chickpeas, and fresh mint! Perfect for meal prep, or as a versatile spring and summer side dish!
Fresh, crunchy smashed cucumber salad with ginger, sesame, and other Asian-inspired flavors. Just 1 bowl, 10 ingredients, and 10 minutes required for this versatile side!
Fresh, crunchy, sweet mango cucumber salad! A versatile side perfect for pairing with spicy, smoky mains like tacos and enchiladas. Just 7 ingredients and 10 minutes required!
Fresh watermelon and cucumber salad with red onion, mint leaves, and jalapeño! A refreshing plant-based side for summer and beyond! Just 10 ingredients and 20 minutes required.
Crunchy, tangy cucumber salad with fresh dill and mint! Optional crispy chickpeas add protein to this delicious summery side dish. Just 7 ingredients, 1 bowl, and 15 minutes required!
Creamy, German-inspired cucumber salad with fresh dill and tangy coconut yogurt. A refreshing, plant-based side for BBQs and beyond. Just 15 minutes, 10 ingredients, and 1 bowl required!
A bright, tangy, and savory snap pea salad with pistachios and basil! The perfect side for pasta and other mains. Just 10 ingredients and 15 minutes required!
A quick-and-easy salad for when your body is craving greens and simplicity! Greens and vegetables in a 3-ingredient no-mix dressing. A simple, fresh, healthy side.
When a meal needs something extra, consider this your go-to side. Fresh greens and vegetables dressed in a simple lemon vinaigrette pair with just about any meal. Ready in just 10 minutes.
Flavorful and eye-catching strawberry spinach salad with candied hazelnuts and dairy-free feta! Perfect for pairing with creamy pastas, soups, or your choice of protein. Just 30 minutes required!
Grilled Corn & Zucchini Salad with Sun-Dried Tomato Vinaigrette
An amazing, light summer dish: 30-minute Grilled Zucchini & Corn Salad with sun-dried tomato vinaigrette! Top with roasted chickpeas for even more protein.
A vegan take on classic coleslaw salad made with 10 simple ingredients! Easy, crunchy, fresh, tangy, and the perfect side for BBQs, sandwiches, and more!
A quick, light, refreshing cabbage slaw that’s mayo-free! Thinly sliced cabbage is tossed with carrots, onion, smoky cumin and garlic, and lime juice and zest. Ready in 15 minutes!
Crunchy jicama slaw with carrots, cabbage, and red onion tossed in a zesty lime-balsamic vinaigrette! Fresh, flavor-packed, and incredibly versatile — great for tacos, bowls, salads, and more! Just 9 ingredients, 1 bowl, and 30 minutes required!
Sweet + spicy watermelon salad with cucumber, avocado, and a creamy mango vinaigrette. A show-stopping side inspired by True Food Kitchen. Just 20 minutes required!
A summery, 10-ingredient melon salad with cantaloupe and mint tossed in lime juice, paired with cucumber, tomatoes, and onion tossed in a light vinaigrette. Refreshing, vibrant, and so delicious.
A simple, 15-minute fruit salad with mango, blueberry, strawberry, and kiwi, dressed with lime juice and chili powder! Spicy-sweet, healthy, and so delicious. Perfect for summer BBQs and heat-free meals!
If you try any of these simple summer side salads, let us know! Leave a comment, rate them, and don’t forget to tag a photo @minimalistbaker on Instagram. Enjoy, friends!
Jackie walton says
Can’t wait to try these salads, true sign of summer.
We hope you love them, Jackie! xo