When summer produce is at its peak, there’s no better way to showcase it than with a fresh, flavorful salad. In this post, I’m sharing three of my favorite summer salad side dishes that are anything but boring. From the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches and strawberries to the creamy tang of feta and mozzarella, these salads are bursting with seasonal flavor. You’ll find a refreshing Sweet Peach Salad with Feta and Fresh Herbs, a bright and juicy Strawberry Summer Salad, and an Elevated Caprese that puts a fresh spin on the classic. Try them all for the sweetest summer flavors!
1. Sweet Peach Salad with Feta and Fresh Herbs
This Sweet Peach Salad with Feta and Fresh Herbs is everything you want in a summer dish—juicy, sweet peaches, creamy crumbles of feta, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil and dill to tie it all together. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, it’s the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and fresh. Serve it as a side for grilled meats, or enjoy it on its own for a light and flavorful lunch. It’s summer in every bite! More notes below!
2. Elevated Caprese Salad
I call this caprese salad elevated because it is better than any one you will eat in a restaurant. With marinated tomatoes, fresh basil, and hearty burrata, this salad is an absolute staple in my kitchen during the summer!
3. Strawberry Summer Salad
My strawberry summer salad is a MUST TRY. You get the sweetness from ripe seasonal strawberries, heartiness from the feta, and a lovely flavor contrast with the red onions. This salad pairs best with steak or chicken on the grill!
Why These Summer Salad Side Dishes Deserve a Spot at Your Table
Summer is one of the best times to lean into simple, produce-forward meals—and salads are the perfect way to let seasonal ingredients shine. The three summer salads in this post aren’t just light and fresh—they’re packed with flavor, texture, and color that elevate any summer spread. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, packing a picnic, or just throwing together a quick weeknight dinner, these salads are ready to impress.
Each of these recipes is built around juicy, ripe summer fruit and complemented with just the right balance of creamy, salty, and herbal notes. They’re easy to prepare, naturally gluten-free, and endlessly customizable depending on what you have on hand.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes each salad so special—and how to make them your own.
Sweet Peach Salad with Feta and Fresh Herbs
This salad is a summertime favorite in my kitchen. When peaches are at their peak—sweet, tender, and dripping with juice—they don’t need much to become a show-stopping dish. Tossed with a handful of crumbled feta and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil and mint, this salad hits all the right notes: sweet, salty, tangy, and fresh.
Serving tips:
- This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple herby quinoa dish.
- It makes a great appetizer when served over a bed of arugula or baby spinach.
Substitutions:
Add a handful of toasted nuts (like almonds or pecans) for crunch.
Swap feta for goat cheese or burrata for a creamier twist.
No peaches? Try nectarines or even plums.
Strawberry Summer Salad
There’s something magical about the combination of strawberries and greens. This salad brings together sweet, juicy strawberries with crisp lettuce or spinach, creamy cheese (like goat cheese or feta), and a pop of crunch from nuts or seeds. It’s dressed with a light vinaigrette—balsamic or honey-lemon both work beautifully—to bring all the flavors together.
Serving tips:
- A favorite at summer brunches and baby showers, this salad looks just as good as it tastes.
- Serve it alongside grilled meats or flatbread pizzas for a light and balanced meal.
Add-ins to try:
- Avocado slices for richness.
- Thinly sliced red onions or pickled shallots for contrast.
- A handful of blueberries or raspberries for a berry medley vibe.
Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy chickpeas for extra protein.
Elevated Caprese Salad
You know the classic caprese: tomatoes, mozzarella, basil. This version takes it a step further by layering in heirloom tomatoes, fresh herbs beyond just basil (think chives or oregano), a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and maybe even a touch of citrus zest for brightness.
Why it works:
- It’s all about the ingredients. The better the tomatoes and mozzarella, the better the salad.
- The contrast between juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic herbs is pure summer joy.
Serving suggestions:
- Perfect as a side dish for pasta, grilled steak, or lemony chicken.
- Try layering it on a platter for a gorgeous centerpiece dish at summer gatherings.
Variations:
- Add sliced avocado or roasted corn for a modern twist.
- Swap balsamic glaze for a lemony vinaigrette for a lighter touch.
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