Sweet and Savory Summer Salads Starring Fresh Fruit

For a fast, fresh grain bowl loaded with mango-licious flavor, these stunning Mexican-inspired bowls have you covered. A base of brown rice and black beans is loaded with crisp bell peppers, juicy mango, and zesty red onion, creating a rainbow of textures and flavors. Finish with a swirl of creamy avocado-lime dressing.
“I really enjoyed this salad because it has so many flavors, and the beans make up for the protein. Very easy to make and best of all, it was filling.” —Jean

This quick summer salad delivers bright, cooling flavors in every bite and doesn’t take all day to prepare (because who has time for that, when the sun is out!). Crisp cucumbers and tangy strawberries combine with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a sprinkle of walnuts for a touch of richness. Finish with a citrusy Dijon dressing and watch everyone swoon.
“This salad is amazing. So light and refreshing with all the best of summer flavors! My family could not stop eating it.” —So Cal Mom

This simple three-ingredient salad pairs sweet pineapple with cool, crunchy cucumber and fresh chopped mint for a burst of refreshing flavor. Season with salt and pepper, and it’s ready for prime time. Enjoy it on its own as a refreshing snack, or serve it as a side at your next cookout.
“Everyone at a church potluck enjoyed this and thought it was really good. —Barbara

Chewy farro, juicy blueberries, and crisp fennel come together in a fresh and unexpected way in this flavor-packed salad that’s hearty enough to be a main meal. Tossed with tender spinach and scallions, and finished with a punchy lemon–maple dressing, this salad is bright, balanced, and full of seasonal flavor. Note: Readers initially reported being unsure about the flavor combinations, but ultimately ended up loving them!
“So delicious. Everything goes together very well and all the different layers of flavour make this a keeper.” —Liane

Succulent peaches and ripe tomatoes take the lead in this effortlessly elegant summer salad, layered with tender greens, sliced shallots, and a hint of fresh herbs. Serve with veggie burgers, veggie skewers, or plant-based steaks.
> “I enjoyed this recipe! Such a nice delight.” —Excellent

Sweet melon and tender white beans come together in this fruity salad that’s all about clean, refreshing flavor. Finished with fresh herbs and a bright citrus splash, this light, five-ingredient dish is perfect for summer—no stove required.
“Wow! Absolutely delicious with white or regular balsamic. Very refreshing and filling for a summer night meal!” —William

If your plum tree is overflowing or you spot perfect plums at the store, this salad is a must-make. Sweet plums pair perfectly with crisp spinach and spiced, crispy lentils, all tossed in a tangy citrus dressing. Walnuts (or pumpkin seeds) add satisfying crunch, while fresh parsley brings a subtle, aromatic finish.
“Excellent—flavors work well together. I had this salad three days in a row.“ —TL

This cooling watermelon salad gets a bright kick from lime, ginger, and a touch of chili and is equal parts sweet, tangy, and refreshing. Feel free to skip the sugar or swap in a drizzle of maple syrup if you prefer a less refined option.
“Very good; I’ve made it probably a dozen times. I use quinoa or farro and both are great.” —Keri

Cold noodles make perfect sense in summer, providing substance while still being refreshing. Ready in 35 minutes, these sensational noodle bowls are packed with fresh produce, including sweet corn, juicy blackberries (or cherries), crisp radishes, and tender baby spinach. Thin noodles, such as capellini or whole grain spaghetti, work well in this dish. A creamy lime-avocado dressing adds tangy richness to each bite.
“Yum! My family really enjoyed this recipe.” —Kelly

Juicy pineapple pairs with crisp cabbage and grated carrot in this tangy coleslaw with a tropical twist. Unlike traditional slaws weighed down by mayonnaise, this recipe keeps things light with a creamy tofu-based dressing made in minutes using lemon juice, pineapple juice, and a touch of cayenne. Enjoy with a veggie burger or as a side dish at your next cookout.

A summer gathering isn’t complete without a big bowl of fresh fruit salad. This tasty version uses a scooped-out watermelon as the bowl—a fun presentation, though any bowl will do. Watermelon, cantaloupe, and strawberries are mixed with cucumber and jicama, then brightened with lime juice and fresh mint. Sprinkle with Tajín or chili seasoning just before serving for an extra kick.

Grilled peaches take center stage in this summery pasta salad, becoming irresistibly juicy and caramelized as they cook—think drip-down-your-chin sweetness with a hint of smoky depth. Paired with fresh blueberries, peppery arugula, hearty multigrain penne, and a zesty lemon–Dijon dressing, this stand-out summer salad is one to bookmark for when you can get your hands on some peaches!
“Loved this salad.” —Fran

This colorful salad is made with just a handful of ingredients and is perfect for any occasion, from entertaining to a quick, light lunch to get you through your workday. It starts with a base of quinoa, chia seeds, and baby kale tossed in a simple dressing. Top with crunchy pepitas and a trio of berries: blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
“It turned out tasty and colourful.” —Anna

This fresh strawberry-mint salad strikes a delicious balance of sweet, tangy, and crisp flavors. Juicy berries, red onion, and crunchy jicama (or cucumber) are tossed in a taste bud–tingling dressing of Dijon, lime, maple syrup, and red pepper flakes. Finished with fresh mint or basil, it’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect as a light side dish for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

Juicy orange and a mix of fresh and grilled peaches make this mouthwatering salad one to remember. Serve it over a bed of arugula or your favorite salad greens, and finish with a touch of lime juice, maple syrup, and fresh rosemary. Primo!
“Nutritious, easy to prepare.” —Cecilia Tanlo