Ah, that famous salads! Even though it feels like the grip of winter refuses to loosen in some corners of the world—yes, I’m looking at you, Edinburgh—in Malta, the story couldn’t be more different.
Imagine this: the sun is high, the skies are clear, and people are reaching for their sunscreen as the mercury hits a delightful 27°C. On days like these, heavy meals are the last thing on your mind. Instead, you find yourself craving something light, refreshing, and, dare I say, splendid!
Below, I’ve curated a selection of summer salads that promise to deliver on taste without weighing you down. Each recipe celebrates summer flavours, is easy to prepare, and is divine. Let’s dive in and explore these culinary delights!
The Casual Chicken Caesar: A Summer Salad Secret
Recipe Courtesy of Kristyn Merkley
Who said a chicken Caesar salad had to be boring? This version adds a summer twist to the beloved classic, making it a refreshing choice for any hot day.
Ingredients & Preparation:
- Fresh romaine lettuce
- Grilled chicken, sliced
- Croutons and Parmesan cheese
- Caesar dressing (light and homemade is recommended)
- Lemon wedges for an extra zing
Combine these ingredients, and you’ve got a salad that’s anything but ordinary.
Watermelon Salad with Mint Dressing
Imagine biting into a piece of juicy watermelon, enhanced with a refreshing mint dressing. This salad is a festival of flavors and textures, perfect for those scorching summer afternoons.
Ingredients & Preparation:
- Cubed watermelon
- Feta cheese crumbles
- Fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- Lime juice and olive oil for the dressing
Mix these for a salad that’s as refreshing as a cool breeze.
Thai Crunch Salad with Thai Peanut Dressing
Bring the flavors of Thailand to your table with this crunchy, nutty salad. It’s a vibrant mix of colors and tastes that will transport you straight to the streets of Bangkok.
Ingredients & Preparation:
- Shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers
- Cilantro and green onions
- Crunchy wonton strips
- Thai peanut dressing to bring it all together
Easy Grilled Avocado Mango Chicken Salad
This salad is like a holiday on a plate. The creaminess of the avocado, the sweetness of mango, and the savory goodness of grilled chicken create a symphony of flavors.
Ingredients & Preparation:
- Grilled chicken breast, sliced
- Fresh mango and avocado, cubed
- Mixed greens for the base
- A light vinaigrette to dress
Honey Lemon Vinaigrette Peach and Bacon Salad
Peaches and bacon might sound like an unusual pair, but in this salad, they’re a match made in heaven. Topped with a honey lemon vinaigrette, it’s a dish that balances sweet and salty to perfection.
Ingredients & Preparation:
- Fresh peaches, sliced
- Crispy bacon, crumbled
- Mixed salad greens
- Honey lemon vinaigrette to drizzle
More Summertime Favorites:
- Avocado Salmon Salad: A heart-healthy feast featuring fresh salmon and ripe avocados.
- Griddled Halloumi Salad with Peach, Courgette, and Lemon Pesto: A vegetarian delight that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
- Caprese Salad with Pesto Dressing: A timeless Italian classic, elevated with homemade pesto.
- Strawberry Spinach Salad: A playful mix of sweet strawberries and earthy spinach, dressed in balsamic.
- Honey Mustard Chicken, Avocado + Bacon Salad: A hearty yet refreshing salad that’s a meal in itself.
Join the Summer Salad Journey
I’d love to hear about your summer salad experiments or your go-to favourites. Each of these recipes is designed to be light, refreshing, and perfectly suited for enjoying under the summer sun.
So, which one will you try first? Dive into the joy of summer salads and let your taste buds embark on a journey of delightful flavours. Happy cooking!
