As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Looking for a refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with smoky grilled favorites? This Bright and Zesty Summer Salad brings lively citrus notes, crisp vegetables, and a hint of sweetness—an ideal, crowd-pleasing companion to any backyard barbecue. It’s light, fresh, and bursting with summery flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, romaine, or your favorite blend)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
To build this summer salad, start by rinsing and drying your mixed greens. Place them in a large serving bowl, leaving enough room to toss everything together later. Next, prepare the colorful add-ins: halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber, and sprinkle the red onion slices. Gently toss in a handful of fresh blueberries, which mingle sweetness with the savory elements.
Whisk together the orange zest, orange juice, olive oil, white wine vinegar, and honey in a small bowl. Give it a good stir, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper to balance the acidity and sweetness. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, and toss gently to ensure each ingredient is lightly coated. Top it all off with crumbled feta cheese if you’d like an extra touch of creaminess.
Serve this salad as soon as you can, letting the citrus aroma shine. The pairing of tangy dressing, crisp greens, and sweet berries perfectly complements grilled meats, smoky barbecue sauces, and all those charred summertime favorites.
This salad is a wonderful choice for those seeking a wholesome, vibrant, and easy-to-make side dish. Thanks to the fresh ingredients and bright flavors, it appeals to vegans (feta cheese optional!), health-conscious eaters, and anyone who loves a burst of sunshine in their meal. Swap out the blueberries for strawberries, or try goat cheese instead of feta. With these easy substitutions, you can adapt this recipe to suit any palate or dietary need—and keep on impressing guests at every summer BBQ.
