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Lifestyle

15 Fresh and Easy Salads to Make This Summer

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at Clemson chapter.

The diet starts tomorrow, right? These 15 short and simple recipes will inspire you to eat better, feel better, and look better this summer.

1. Watermelon, Mint, and Feta

summer salads

Photo by Libby Perold

Take a break from that summer heat with this simple and sweet recipe. It only calls for three ingredients and takes almost no time to make. The sweetness from the watermelon balanced with the tanginess of the feta makes this the perfect summer snack.

2. Caprese Salad

summer salads

Photo by Bernard Wen

Satisfy your Italian cravings with this classic salad dish. All it takes is your choice of spinach or arugula, tomatoes, and of course, mozzarella. Spice it up with some basil, pine nuts, or balsamic vinaigrette.

3. Mason Jar Salad

summer salads

Photo by Bernard Wen

One of the hottest summer food trends, mason jar salads are great if you’re on-the-go. Get creative by layering the salad with your favorite dressing, toppings, and leafy greens.

4. Vegan Power Salad

summer salads

Photo by Danielle Cahoon

Looking for a salad that’s cruelty-free and will keep you full throughout the day? This one’s for you. Get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals by replacing meat and cheese for natural and healthy ingredients like quinoa and avocados.

5. Crab Salad

summer salads

Photo by Abbie Ginis

It’s finally time for some fresh seafood. Switch out your crab cake recipe with this summer crab salad that tastes great with peas, blackberries, or avocado.

6. Kale, Tempeh, and Lemon Salad

summer salads

Photo by Katherine Baker

This combination salad has just the right amount of flavor to mask the sometimes bitter kale. Take it up a notch with some nuts or dried fruit.

7. Chick Pea, Sweet Potato, Apple Farro Salad

summer salads

Photo by Katherine Baker

If you’re not a fan of quinoa, farro may be your new best friend. It tastes like a mix of oatmeal and risotto, and is a great source of whole grains. This salad pairs well with apples, chick peas, and sweet potatoes or butternut squash.

8. Tomato Cucumber Salad

summer salads

Photo by Lynden Orr

Perfect for dinner parties or a refreshing snack, and it only calls for six ingredients.

9. Taco Salad

summer salads

Photo by Raissa Xie

This dish is a great way to stay healthy on Taco Tuesday. Grilled chicken, fresh veggies, crunchy gorilla chips, salsa, and black beans is all you need to copy this well known Mexican recipe.

10. Booze-Infused Fruit Salad

summer salads

Photo by Kristine Mahan

You heard me. Transform the staple fruit salad into an adult summer snack. Just soak your favorite fruit in vodka and you’re ready to share with friends.

11. Mango Salsa Salad

summer salads

Photo by Norah Cliff

Inspired by fresh Caribbean cuisine, this mango salsa salad adds a sweet twist to any bland salad. Top it off with cilantro, redo onion, corn, avocado, and lime juice.

12. Edamame Salad

summer salads

Photo by Beth LeValley

Edamame is packed with many nutrients and easy to get your hands on. This Asian-inspired dish pairs well with almonds, bell peppers, Havarti cheese, cilantro, and lemon juice.

13. Grapefruit Shrimp Salad

summer salads

Photo by Christin Urso

This citrus-infused seafood salad is packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants, and is sure to keep you fueled throughout the day.

14. Very Berry Salad

summer salads

Photo by Hannah Lin

Celebrate berry season with this sweet recipe, done in under 5 minutes!

15. Greek Salad

summer salads

Photo by Piril Dobrucali

Sweet and salty with a simple dressing, this Greek salad is the perfect way to end our favorite summer salads. Make it your own by adding red wine vinegar or grilled chicken breast.

Taste and see that the Lord is good