Check out these chill salads and sides that'll keep you and your kitchen cool.
37 No-Cook Sides Perfect for Summer
Updated on Sep. 17, 2024
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Bok Choy Toss
Total Time
20 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Chop some fresh veggies, add a gingery bottled dressing and savor this unique bok choy salad that’s big on flavor and crunch. How cool is that? —Andrew McDowell, Lake Villa, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 47 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 135mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable.
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Juicy Watermelon Salad
Total Time
20 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This fruit salad has such a surprising yet fabulous mix of flavors that friends often ask for the recipe. Combine seedless watermelon varieties in yellow, red and pink for a colorful twist. —Heidi Haight, Macomb, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 232 calories, 20g fat (5g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 295mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
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Two-Berry Fluff Salad
Total Time
15 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This fluffy salad is a welcome treat on warm Texas afternoons. Because there's a blueberry orchard near our home, we often pick up berries to use in this recipe and others. When blueberries and strawberries aren't in season, you can substitute frozen berries with equally good results. —Karen Wenzel, Conroe, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cups: 305 calories, 21g fat (13g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 72mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 3g fiber), 3g protein.
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Marinated Three Bean Salad
Total Time
20 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh herbs and cayenne pepper provide the fantastic flavor in this marinated salad featuring fresh veggies and canned beans. —Carol Tucker, Wooster, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 184 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 452mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 8g fiber), 8g protein.
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Strawberry Arugula Salad
Total Time
15 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The combination of peppery arugula, sweet strawberries and robust feta cheese may sound unusual, but one bite will win you over.—Carala Horne, Meridian, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 106 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 88mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
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Honey-Pecan Kiwi Salad
Total Time
10 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This dish won second place in a summer salad recipe feature published in our local newspaper. But it takes first place with my family, always happy to try my new creations. —Marla Arbet, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 94 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 7mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
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Sliced Tomato Salad
Total Time
25 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I got this recipe from my grandmother. It's a perfect platter to serve with burgers or hot sandwiches. —Kendal Tangedal, Plentywood, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 94 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 159mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 fat.
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Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
Total Time
20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The first time my friends tasted my new side dish, they said it was phenomenal. The longer you let it chill in the fridge, the more tender the sprouts will be. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 156 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 79mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
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Flamboyant Flamenco Summer Salad
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this salad simply by choosing the best-looking vegetables at a local farmers market—the colors are so beautiful! Turn it into a full vegetarian meal by adding roasted garbanzo beans or cooked white beans as protein. —Crystal Schlueter, Northglenn, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 103 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 203mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat, 1/2 fruit.
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Thai Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing
Total Time
35 min
Servings
22 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I created this salad to replicate one I tried on a cruise several years ago. It goes over very well at family gatherings and potlucks year-round. We love the spice of the Thai chile, but if your family isn't into spice, feel free to leave it out. It will still be delicious! —Donna Gribbins, Shelbyville, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 271 calories, 23g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 69mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
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Lemony Zucchini Ribbons
Total Time
15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh zucchini gets a shave and a drizzle of lemony goodness in this fab salad. Sprinkle the goat cheese or feta on top and dive in. —Ellie Martin Cliffe, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 83 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 352mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
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Pear-Blueberry Ambrosia with Creamy Lime Dressing
Total Time
20 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This dessert is delicious and decadent, yet is chock-full of healthy fruit with a creamy lime dressing; the blueberries provide a lovely pop of color. —Laura Stricklin, Jackson, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 218 calories, 14g fat (6g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 13mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 4g fiber), 3g protein.
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Asian Cucumber Salad
Total Time
15 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This colorful Asian cucumber salad makes a simple, cool side dish when we have stir-fry for dinner. —Tari Ambler, Shorewood, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 34 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 101mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable.
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Simple Waldorf Salad
Total Time
10 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is my go-to salad when I need a quick little meal. When I want a sweeter taste, I use whipped cream instead of yogurt. —Wendy Masters, East Garafraxa, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 140 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 119mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 fruit.
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Tabouleh
Total Time
30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Tabbouleh is a classic Middle Eastern salad. The fresh veggies and mint leaves make it light and refreshing on a hot day. —Michael & Mathil Chebat, Lake Ridge, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 100 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 164mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1/2 starch.
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Marinated Mushrooms & Artichokes
Total Time
15 min
Servings
16 servings (1/2 cup each)
From the Recipe Creator:
I marinate mushrooms and artichokes in fresh tarragon, thyme and seasonings so they turn out tart, tangy and irresistible. —Marcia Doyle, Pompano, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 43 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 162mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable.
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Sesame Almond Slaw
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Crunchy veggies and noodles are coated in a tangy dressing in this pleasant slaw. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 187 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 193mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable.
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Pina Colada Molded Salad
Total Time
25 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My gelatin ring gets a tropical twist from coconut, pineapple and macadamia nuts. It's a wonderful anytime treat. Now that I'm retired from teaching, I have more time for kitchen experiments. —Carol Gillespie, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 331 calories, 20g fat (11g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 82mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (33g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.
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Marinated Tomatoes
Total Time
10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My niece introduced me to this colorful recipe some time ago. I now make it when I have buffets or large gatherings because it can be prepared hours ahead. This is a great way to use a bumper crop of tomatoes. —Myrtle Matthews, Marietta, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
about 2 pieces: 93 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 4mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
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Marinated Cucumbers
Total Time
10 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Dressed with a light, tangy oil-and-vinegar mixture and seasoned with herbs, these cucumber slices make a cool summer side dish. The refreshing salad is perfect alongside sandwiches and a variety of meats.—Mary Helen Hinson, Lamberton, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 48 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 106mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
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Easy Orange and Red Onion Salad
Total Time
20 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's an unusual salad that’s easy to prepare when holiday obligations have you short on time. The combination of red onions and oranges may seem unusual, but it's surprisingly delightful. —Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 127 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 148mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 fruit, 1-1/2 fat.
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Crab-Stuffed Avocados
Total Time
20 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We enjoy having this creamy and crunchy salad out on our deck on summer evenings. And it goes together in minutes flat! —Gail VanGundy, Parker, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 stuffed avocado: 326 calories, 26g fat (4g saturated fat), 84mg cholesterol, 654mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 5g fiber), 17g protein.
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Sweet & Sour Squash Salad
Total Time
20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This salad goes over really well with all ages, and it's a good way to get kids to eat summer squash. —Opal Shipman Levelland, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 241 calories, 10g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 703mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein.
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Citrus Avocado Salad
Total Time
10 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe nicely showcases grapefruit and oranges, which are at their peak around the holidays. Citrus fruits pair well with a sweet dressing. —Sonia Candler, Edmonton, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 175 calories, 13g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 136mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 4g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
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Grape Salad
Total Time
20 min
Servings
24 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Everyone raves when I bring this refreshing, creamy grape salad to potlucks. For a special finishing touch, sprinkle it with brown sugar and pecans. —Marge Elling, Jenison, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 131 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 35mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
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Squash Ribbons
Total Time
15 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Steamed and well seasoned, these pretty vegetable ribbons will dress up your dinner plate. The strips of yellow summer squash and zucchini are easy to cut using a vegetable peeler or cheese slicer.
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 80 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 206mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
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Marinated Broccoli
Total Time
15 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This festive side dish couldn't be easier to throw together. But because it's so pretty, it's perfect for special occasions. —Edna Hoffman, Hebron, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 119 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 315mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
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Salad with Avocado
Total Time
25 min
Servings
9 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Tangy lime dressing is the perfect topper for this avocado salad. Toasted walnuts make for crunchy goodness, but try it with any kind of nut you like. —Ilia Kaku, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 130 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 57mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
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Ruby Raspberry Slaw
Total Time
25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Give ordinary coleslaw a "berry" tangy twist. It's sure to get raves at your next picnic or potluck. —Deborah Biggs, Omaha, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 122 calories, 11g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 144mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
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Fennel Salad with Citrus Dressing
Total Time
20 min
Servings
5 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My family really enjoys crunchy fennel, which pairs well with citrus vinaigrette. The salad makes a nice addition to any meal.—Denise Elder, Hanover, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 160 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 273mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 fat, 1/2 starch.
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Lemon Artichoke Romaine Salad
Total Time
15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
"I created this dish when I was trying to duplicate a very lemony Caesar salad," recalls Kathy Armstrong of Post Falls, Idaho. "I think my version is not only delicious but more healthful, too!"
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 105 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 541mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1-1/2 fat.
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Summer Squash and Zucchini Salad
Total Time
20 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this colorful, tasty zucchini salad years ago for a recipe contest and was delighted when I won honorable mention! The recipe easily doubles and is the perfect dish to take to potlucks or family gatherings. —Paula Wharton, El Paso, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 101 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 1mg cholesterol, 124mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
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Heirloom Tomato Salad
Total Time
20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a simple yet elegant dish that always pleases my guests. Not only is it tasty, but it is healthy, too. The more varied the colors of the tomatoes you choose, the prettier the salad will be. —Jess Apfe, Berkeley, California
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 75 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 161mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
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Snickers Salad
Total Time
15 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This creamy, sweet salad with crisp apple crunch is a real people-pleaser. It makes a lot, which is good, because it will go fast! —Cyndi Fynaardt, Oskaloosa, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 218 calories, 9g fat (6g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 174mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
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Island Mango Slaw
Total Time
25 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The cooling effect of tropical fruit and Greek yogurt meets jalapeno spice in this snappy mango slaw. To ensure ripeness, you may want to buy your mango a day or two ahead. —Jenn Hall, Collingswood, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 66 calories, 1g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 188mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 2g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
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Pina Colada Fruit Salad
Total Time
15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Give friends a taste of the tropics on warm summer days with this refreshing fruit blend. For a little extra punch, you might add a splash of coconut rum. —Carol Farnsworth, Greenwood, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 225 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 17mg sodium, 53g carbohydrate (49g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein.
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Creamy Cucumber Salad
Total Time
10 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
It wouldn't be summer if Mom didn't make lots of these creamy cucumbers. Just a few simple ingredients—mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar and salt—are all you need to dress them up. —Michelle Beran, Claflin, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 283 calories, 27g fat (4g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 286mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
