Welcome to a vibrant collection of refreshing of the Must Try Vegan Spring & Summer Salad Recipes you’ll be eating on repeat!  I have been making salads for many many years and my friends often call me the salad queen.  

These salads are not only bursting with flavor but also packed with health benefits and will make you fall in love with salads.

Let’s dive into my favorite selection of nutritious salads that truly celebrate the bounty of spring and summer produce!

1. Hormone Balancing Arugula Salad with Rosemary Tahini Sauce:

• Health Benefits: Arugula is rich in vitamins and minerals, including folate, vitamin K, and calcium, which support bone health and overall well-being. The rosemary in the tahini sauce adds an antioxidant boost, promoting cognitive function and reducing inflammation.
• Description: This vibrant salad combines peppery arugula with colorful vegetables, crunchy seeds, and a flavorful rosemary tahini dressing. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers a range of nutrients to support hormonal balance and overall health.
• Why You Should Make It: Balance your hormones while indulging in a flavorful mix of peppery arugula, colorful veggies, and a zesty tahini dressing.

2. Vegan Roasted Potato Salad with Creamy Maple Mustard Dressing:

• Health Benefits: Potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins, which support immune function and energy production. The creamy maple mustard dressing adds flavor without excess calories or unhealthy fats, making it a nutritious option for those watching their weight.
• Description: This hearty salad features roasted potatoes tossed with fresh vegetables and a creamy maple mustard dressing. It’s a satisfying dish that provides a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at your next barbecue.
• Why You Should Make It: Savor the goodness of roasted potatoes and a creamy delicious herby dressing for a satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.

3. Rainbow Soba Noodle Salad (For Skin Health):

• Health Benefits: Soba noodles, made from buckwheat flour, are gluten-free and rich in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, supporting digestive health and providing sustained energy. The vibrant array of vegetables in this salad, such as bell peppers, carrots, and cabbage, are packed with vitamins and minerals that promote skin health and a youthful glow.
• Description: This colorful salad combines nutty soba noodles with an assortment of crunchy vegetables, all tossed in a tangy tahini dressing bursting with flavor. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it also nourishes the body from the inside out, making it a perfect choice for those looking to support their skin health while enjoying a delicious meal.
• Why You Should Make It: Nourish your skin with this colorful salad packed with nutrient-rich soba noodles, fresh veggies, and a zesty lemon dressing.

4. Arugula Quinoa Salad with Orange Poppyseed Dressing:

• Health Benefits: Arugula provides a peppery flavor and is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and calcium, supporting bone health and immune function. Quinoa is a complete protein and contains essential amino acids, making it a valuable addition to a plant-based diet. The orange poppyseed dressing adds a burst of citrus flavor and is packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, promoting skin health and boosting immunity.
• Description: This vibrant salad combines fluffy quinoa with fresh arugula, juicy oranges, and crunchy almonds, all drizzled with a zesty orange poppyseed dressing. It’s a nutrient-packed dish that satisfies both your taste buds and your body’s nutritional needs, making it an excellent choice for a light and refreshing meal.
• Why You Should Make It: Enjoy a burst of citrus flavors and the health benefits of quinoa in this refreshing salad.

5. Rainbow Quinoa Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing:

• Health Benefits: Quinoa is a gluten-free grain rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals, contributing to satiety, digestive health, and overall well-being. Bell peppers provide vitamin C, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, while chickpeas offer plant-based protein and fiber for sustained energy. Avocado adds healthy fats, promoting heart health and satiety, while walnuts offer omega-3 fatty acids and additional crunch.
• Description: This vibrant salad features tricolor quinoa cooked in vegetable broth for added flavor, combined with colorful bell peppers, creamy avocado, crunchy chickpeas, and tangy kalamata olives. Topped with thinly sliced red onion, torn arugula, and chopped walnuts, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The creamy lemon dressing, made with tahini, lemon juice, coconut aminos, and preserved lemon, adds a zesty and refreshing finish to this nutritious dish. Optionally, a dash of sauerkraut can be added for probiotic benefits. 
• Why You Should Make It: Dive into a rainbow of flavors and nourish your body with this hearty salad featuring protein-packed quinoa and a creamy lemon dressing.

6. Butter Leaf Lettuce Salad in a Creamy Dill Dressing:

• Health Benefits: Butter leaf lettuce is a low-calorie leafy green rich in vitamins A, K, and folate, supporting eye health, bone health, and red blood cell production. The creamy dill dressing provides flavor without excess calories, and dill itself contains antioxidants and may have antimicrobial properties, supporting digestion and immune function.
• Description: This delicate salad features tender butter leaf lettuce leaves drizzled with a creamy dill dressing. The dressing, made with ingredients such as vegan mayo, fresh dill, lemon juice, and garlic, adds a burst of flavor to the crisp, refreshing lettuce. It’s a light and refreshing dish that pairs perfectly with any meal or can stand alone as a satisfying appetizer.
• Why You Should Make It: Delight your taste buds with the fresh flavors of butter lettuce and a creamy dill dressing that’s both light and satisfying.

7. “The Jennifer Aniston” Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad:

• Health Benefits: This salad is packed with ingredients that promote skin health and overall well-being. Quinoa is a complete protein and contains lysine, an amino acid important for collagen production, which helps maintain skin elasticity and firmness. Parsley is rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants that protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and promote collagen synthesis. Mint has cooling and soothing properties that can alleviate skin irritation and inflammation, while cucumbers are hydrating and contain silica, a mineral that supports collagen production and maintains skin elasticity. The lemon chia seed dressing adds vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids, which nourish the skin from the inside out, leaving it glowing and radiant.
• Description: Inspired by Jennifer Aniston’s love for tabbouleh salad, this recipe features a modern twist with the addition of protein-packed quinoa. Fresh parsley and mint combine with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor and color. Optional diced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats. Drizzled with a tangy lemon chia seed dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrients that support radiant skin and overall health.  Pair this with my delicious homemade and easy homemade hummus (with must try hacks to make the perfect hummus each time!)
• Why You Should Make It: A delicious salad this is PERFECT for meal prep and promotes skin health!

8. Coir Raincoat Cucumber Salad:

• Health Benefits: This refreshing salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides numerous health benefits. Persian cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, making them an excellent choice for maintaining hydration and aiding in weight management. They also contain silica, a mineral that promotes healthy skin, hair, and nails. The addition of coconut aminos and sesame oil adds depth of flavor without gluten or excess sodium, while gochugaru (Korean dried chili) provides a spicy kick and may boost metabolism and promote heart health.
• Description: Inspired by the flavors of Korean cuisine, this vegan and gluten-free Coir Raincoat Cucumber Salad features thinly sliced Persian cucumbers marinated in a flavorful dressing. The dressing combines coconut aminos, coconut sugar, toasted sesame oil, and gochugaru for a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors. Topped with sesame seeds for added texture and nuttiness, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it an ideal side dish for any meal or a refreshing snack on a hot day.
• Why You Should Make It: Stay hydrated and refreshed with this crisp and flavorful salad featuring Persian cucumbers and a tangy dressing!

9. Pink Princess Salad (with Creamy Vegan Beet Herb Dressing):

• Health Benefits: This salad is packed with nutrient-rich ingredients that support overall health and well-being. Mixed salad greens provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while purple cabbage is rich in fiber and anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Radishes add a crisp texture and are a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Strawberries contribute natural sweetness and are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. The creamy vegan beet herb dressing adds a dose of vitamins and minerals from the beet, along with healthy fats from tahini. Additionally, fresh herbs provide a burst of flavor and additional nutrients. Overall, this salad is a delicious and nourishing way to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet.
• Description: Fit for royalty, the Pink Princess Salad is a regal combination of mixed salad greens, shredded purple cabbage, sliced radishes, and sliced strawberries, creating a vibrant array of colors and textures. Topped with a creamy vegan beet herb dressing made with cooked beets, fresh herbs, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, this salad is as nutritious as it is beautiful. Each bite is a burst of flavor and nourishment, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a stunning side dish at any gathering.
• Why You Should Make It: Indulge in the vibrant colors and flavors of this royal salad, enhanced by a creamy beet herb dressing that’s as nutritious as it is beautiful!

10. Shirazi Salad: A Healthy Vegan Persian Recipe

• Health Benefits: This salad is bursting with health benefits. Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and lycopene, which may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. Fresh herbs like parsley and mint add flavor and are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K and potassium. The lemon and olive oil dressing provides healthy fats and may promote heart health and reduce inflammation. Overall, the Shirazi Salad is a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal, offering a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your health and well-being.
• Description: Transport your taste buds to the sunny streets of Shiraz with this refreshing salad. Featuring diced cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and an abundance of fresh herbs such as parsley and mint, this salad is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors. The lemon and olive oil dressing adds brightness and depth to the salad, tying all the ingredients together in perfect harmony. With its crisp textures and zesty flavors, the Shirazi Salad is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a refreshing respite from the summer heat and a burst of nutrition with every bite.
• Why You Should Make It: Experience the fresh and aromatic flavors of Persian cuisine with this simple yet flavorful salad that’s perfect for any occasion, especially to enjoy on a warm day or a gathering 🙂

11. Cowgirl Caviar (an upgraded cowboy caviar)

• Health Benefits: This vibrant salad packs a nutritious punch with fiber-rich black beans, vitamin-packed bell peppers, and the natural sweetness of mangoes. Creamy avocado adds healthy fats, while the zesty dressing offers tangy flavor without sacrificing health.
• Description: Treat your taste buds to a fiesta of flavors with this upgraded cowboy caviar! Bursting with colors and textures, Cowgirl Caviar features a medley of black beans, bell peppers, juicy mangoes, creamy avocado, zesty red onion, crunchy cashews, and fresh cilantro.
• Why You Should Make It: Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing and nutritious salad, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a vibrant side dish.  It’s also a great meal prep option to make ahead of time.

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