Fresh, Simple, and Nourishing: Summer Salad Recipes You’ll Love
It is HOT out and Summer is the perfect time to lighten things up in the kitchen — and what better way to do that than with a vibrant, refreshing salad? But let’s be real: not all salads are created equal. If you’ve ever stared at a bowl of sad iceberg lettuce and called it a meal, you’re not alone. A good summer salad should be satisfying, energizing, and full of flavor — not a chore to eat.
Here are a few of my favorite go-to summer salads that are easy to throw together, packed with nutrients, and perfect for hot days when you don’t want to cook.
Grilled Peach & Chicken Salad
Great for: balancing blood sugar, supporting lean muscle, and satisfying sweet/savory cravings.
Ingredients:
Grilled or rotisserie chicken breast, sliced
1 ripe peach, grilled or fresh, sliced
2 cups arugula or spring mix
¼ avocado, sliced
1 tbsp crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional)
2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts
Balsamic vinaigrette
Why it’s great: This salad combines protein, healthy fats, and fiber to help stabilize energy — no sugar crashes here! Bonus: peaches are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
Cucumber Chickpea Crunch Salad
Great for: plant-based protein, cooling inflammation, and quick prep.
Ingredients:
1 can chickpeas, rinsed
1 cucumber, diced
½ red bell pepper, chopped
¼ red onion, finely sliced
Handful of fresh dill or parsley
Juice of ½ lemon
1 tbsp olive oil
Sea salt & pepper
Why it’s great: Chickpeas add fiber and protein, cucumbers are super hydrating, and the fresh herbs give this salad a burst of summer flavor. Perfect as a lunch or side dish.
Hormone-Happy Kale & Quinoa Salad
Great for: fiber, detox support, and steady energy.
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked and cooled quinoa
2 cups chopped kale (massage with lemon juice or olive oil to soften)
¼ cup shredded carrots
¼ cup pumpkin seeds
2 tbsp dried cranberries (unsweetened if possible)
Dressing: olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, a touch of maple syrup
Why it’s great: This salad is packed with fiber, minerals like magnesium and zinc (which support hormone balance), and energizing complex carbs. Bonus: it stores well in the fridge for days!
Watermelon Mint Feta Salad
Great for: cooling down, hydration, and a light snack or starter.
Ingredients:
2 cups diced watermelon
A few fresh mint leaves, chopped
¼ cup crumbled feta
Optional: a squeeze of lime or drizzle of balsamic glaze
Why it’s great: Watermelon helps keep you hydrated and supports digestion. It’s light but super refreshing — perfect for those hot afternoons.
Make it S.I.M.P.L.E.
These salads follow my S.I.M.P.L.E. Method — they’re Sustainable, Intentional, Mindful, Personalized, Loving, and Energizing. Whether you’re short on time or just need ideas that actually fuel your body, these salads are a delicious step in the right direction.
Want more personalized meal ideas that support your hormones and energy goals? I’ve got you.
Let’s work together to build a nutrition plan that works with your life — not against it. Book a call with me here to discuss your goals, and also I’ll share how my program works. Looking forward to talking with you!
