There’s something so refreshing about a salad that celebrates all the flavors of summer! I call this one the “Hot Girl Summer Salad” because it’s vibrant, full of life, and the perfect dish to whip up when the sun is blaring and you want to impress your friends—or just indulge in something delicious all by yourself! I first made this salad for a picnic in the park, and the compliments kept rolling in, leaving me feeling like the culinary star of the day. It quickly became a go-to recipe for summer gatherings because it’s not just beautiful; it’s also super delicious.
This salad is chock-full of colorful veggies, juicy fruits, and a lovely dressing that ties everything together. It manages to bring a little sass to the table—a perfect side for a barbecue or a light, refreshing main course! Let’s dive in, shall we?
What’s in Hot Girl Summer Salad?
Mixed Greens: The base of our salad, I like using a mix of spinach, arugula, and kale for a variety of textures and flavors. They are not only tasty but super nutritious!
Cherry Tomatoes: These little bursts of sweetness add a delightful pop to the salad. I usually go for organic tomatoes—they taste way better!
Cucumbers: Crisp and hydrating, cucumbers are a must for summer salads. I prefer to use English cucumbers as they have fewer seeds and a nice crunch.
Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocados not only provide healthy fats but also make the salad feel a little more indulgent. Use ripe ones for the best flavor!
Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a bit of zing! If you’re not a huge fan of raw onions, soaking them in cold water for a few minutes can mellow out their sharpness.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the fruits and veggies. For an extra treat, try using a flavored feta!
Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries—these vibrant fruits offer a sweet contrast, making each bite exciting. They’re also super antioxidant-rich!
Sunflower Seeds: For a little crunch and nutty flavor, I love adding sunflower seeds. They also boost the salad’s protein content.
Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar: The dressing is simple yet tasty! A mix of high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar provides depth and balance.
Is Hot Girl Summer Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This salad is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits.
Mixed Greens: These leafy greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K and packed with antioxidants. A true powerhouse!
Avocado: Full of healthy fats and fiber, avocados can help to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Berries: These fruits are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can help promote heart health. They’re a sweet treat you can feel good about!
Just watch out if you’re sensitive to onions, as raw Red Onion might be a bit strong for your taste. Feel free to omit them or reduce the amount based on personal preference.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, kale)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, sliced
– 1 avocado, diced
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup fresh berries (your choice)
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Hot Girl Summer Salad?
1. Start by washing and drying your mixed greens. Place them in a large salad bowl—this is the base of your masterpiece!
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber, and dice the avocado. Add these beauties to the bowl.
3. Thinly slice the red onion and sprinkle it over the salad.
4. Pour in the fresh berries, and sprinkle the feta and sunflower seeds on top for a beautiful presentation.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving, and toss gently to combine all those scrumptious flavors.
Summer Salad Secrets
– **Feel Free to Customize:** Add or omit any ingredients based on your preference! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or quinoa can also be great additions for extra protein.
– **Perfect Picnic Dish:** If you’re making this salad for a picnic, keep the dressing on the side until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
– **Storage:** If you have leftovers, store the components separately (keep the dressing aside!) so you can enjoy the salad fresh the next day!
I hope you give this Hot Girl Summer Salad a try! It’s a simple but show-stopping dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your summer repertoire. I’d love to hear all about your experiences with it and any tweaks you make along the way! Happy cooking!
